Friday 30
May 2025
166 km
Altitude Gain 4950 m
Starting in
A high mountain stage. After climbing Serra from Biella and traversing a short stretch of the Dora Baltea valley, three successive climbs of 16 km each with notable gradients are tackled: Col Tzecore (up to 15%), Col Saint-Pantaléon, and Col de Joux. A descent leads to Brusson, followed by the final climb that ends 5 km from the finish in Champoluc (Ayas).
Host city:
Biella, located in the north-western region of Piedmont, is a city famous for its textile tradition and industrial history. The historic center is characterized by elegant squares and churches, including the Duomo of Biella. It is also an important fashion hub, thanks to its tradition in the textile sector. The city is surrounded by mountain landscapes that offer numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, such as trekking and skiing, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
The local cuisine has a strong Piedmontese identity, supported by well-known national and international food producers and small artisans who preserve regional traditions. Biella’s gastronomy is considered one of the culinary excellences of Piedmont. Among the most renowned local cheeses is Toma, a hard cheese made from cow’s milk, deeply rooted in Alpine tradition. It is produced using either whole milk, known as Maccagno, or partially skimmed milk. The tome from Biella’s valleys have been awarded Piedmont D.O.C. status. These cheeses are also the main ingredients in two traditional dishes: pulenta cunscia, a creamy polenta cooked slowly in a copper pot, enriched with melted local cheese and farm butter, and ris an cagnùn, a rustic risotto served with Toma cheese and browned butter.
The region also boasts a variety of cured meats, including salam ‘d l’ula, pork sausages preserved in fat, made with pork, salt, pepper, and sometimes red wine, salam ‘d vaca, made from beef, and salam d’asu, prepared with donkey meat. Another specialty is salam d’patata, a potato-based sausage with a small amount of blood, offering a unique texture and mild flavor. The paletta di Coggiola, a shoulder ham seasoned with salt and pepper, is aged in a natural casing and air-dried.
Biella’s pastry tradition includes torcetti, buttery, oval-shaped biscuits, crunchy on the outside and soft inside, paste ‘d melia, corn flour cookies with a slightly rustic texture, and canestrelli, crispy wafers made with chocolate and hazelnuts. The diverse local flora allows the production of a wide variety of honeys, including acacia, chestnut, linden, rhododendron, dandelion, and wildflower honey.
The water of Biella is renowned for its exceptional purity. One example is Lauretana, which, with only 14 mg/l of mineral residue, is among the lightest waters in Europe. Biella is also home to one of Italy’s oldest breweries, Menabrea, which has been producing high-quality beer since 1846. This beer has won numerous international awards, including recognition as the best Lager in the world. Additionally, the area hosts several microbreweries, which offer a wide selection of craft beers with unique flavors and ingredients.
As for wines, the Erbaluce di Caluso D.O.C.G. is a prestigious white wine, pale yellow in color, with floral aromas and a dry, fresh, and distinctive taste. The red wines of the region include four D.O.C. varieties: Bramaterra, Lessona, Canavese, and Coste della Sesia. These ruby-red wines are known for their intense aromas and dry, well-balanced flavors. One of the most unique local liqueurs is the Ratafià di Andorno, a 500-year-old recipe made from wild cherry maceration in alcohol, creating a rich, fruity digestif.
In the historic center, the Museum of the Biella Territory offers an insight into Biella’s history, covering the area from Viverone to Lago della Vecchia, Bessa, and Monte Rubello. Located within the Cloister of the Saint Sebastian’s Basilica, the museum takes visitors through a journey from prehistory to the 20th century. It features an archaeological section, from paleontology to the Middle Ages, and a historical-artistic section, from the Renaissance to 20th-century collections.
Another key landmark is the Cathedral of Saint Stephen, Biella’s patron saint. Built in the city’s oldest district, the cathedral houses the rare “Christ of Sunday” fresco, an example of popular religious art that largely disappeared after the Council of Trent. Next to the cathedral, visitors can admire one of Piedmont’s most significant examples of Romanesque architecture, the Baptistery, which was built over an ancient Roman burial site.
A short distance from the city, at 1,180 meters above sea level, lies the Sanctuary of the Black Madonna of Oropa, one of Italy’s most important pilgrimage sites and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This Marian shrine, among the oldest in Western Europe, is surrounded by the Oropa Natural Reserve, which provides stunning hiking trails and breathtaking landscapes.
Outdoor activities are a major attraction in Biella, particularly in the Oropa Basin, where visitors can enjoy via ferrata routes, trekking and climbing, downhill biking, and panoramic hikes overlooking the Po Valley. During winter, Oropa becomes a skiing destination, with freeride slopes from Monte Camino, at 2,400 meters, down to 1,200 meters without removing skis, as well as snowshoeing and ski-mountaineering trails.
For nature lovers, the Burcina Park, located between Biella and Pollone, is a botanical park created in the 19th century by Felice Piacenza, a textile entrepreneur. Covering 57 hectares, it features rhododendrons, azaleas, conifers, and exotic broadleaf trees perfectly integrated into the natural landscape. Since 1980, it has been designated a Special Nature Reserve.
Nearby protected natural areas include the Oasi Zegna in Trivero, a 100-square-kilometer nature reserve in the Biella Alps, open for hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. The Bessa Nature Reserve, one of the largest ancient open-pit gold mines, dates back to the 2nd–1st century B.C. and covers 10 square kilometers between Biella and Ivrea.
Just outside Biella, the medieval village of Candelo is home to the Ricetto di Candelo, one of the best-preserved fortified medieval structures in Piedmont.
For those who love water activities, Lake Viverone, located just 20 kilometers from Biella, is a glacial lake known for its clear waters and picturesque setting. It is a popular tourist and recreational destination, offering birdwatching, water sports, and scenic boat rides.
Champoluc, in the region of Valle d’Aosta, is one of the main ski resorts in the Alps. Located in the heart of Monte Rosa, it offers spectacular views and a wide range of ski facilities. Champoluc is also an ideal departure point for summer hikes and mountain walks. The village, which retains a typical Alpine atmosphere, is a perfect place for those seeking outdoor adventures or simply relaxation in nature.
Champoluc, in the heart of the Ayas Valley, offers a typical cuisine that reflects the mountain traditions of Valle d’Aosta. Among the most representative dishes is the Valle d’Aosta fondue, a rich and creamy dish made with local cheeses such as Fontina, melted with milk, butter, and eggs, accompanied by toasted bread. Polenta concia, another traditional dish, is made with polenta served with melted butter and abundant cheese, perfect for warming up during cold winter days.
Meat-based dishes are a staple of Champoluc’s cuisine: among the most renowned are venison and chamois, often braised or served with herb-based sauces. Risotto alla valdostana, prepared with cheese and mushrooms, is another dish that encapsulates the flavors of the mountains.
Desserts include typical cakes such as the Valle d’Aosta apple cake or hazelnut cake, offering an authentic taste, perfect for ending a mountain meal. Honey and artisanal jam, both typical of the region, are often paired with cheese or simply enjoyed on their own. The cuisine of Champoluc is a true journey into traditional flavors, ideal for those wanting to immerse themselves in the authentic tastes of the Alps.
The typical drinks reflect the Valle d’Aosta tradition, offering a mix of aromas and flavors that perfectly complement the Alpine climate and mountain culture. One of the most representative beverages is Genepy, an aromatic and digestive liqueur made from Alpine herbs that grow at high altitudes. Its unique, slightly bitter taste makes it perfect after a hearty meal.
Another traditional beverage is Valle d’Aosta grappa, produced from local grapes or pomace, known for its strong flavor and ability to warm up cold winter evenings. Grappa is often served as a digestif, paired with cheeses or traditional desserts.
For those who prefer a sweeter drink, there is Valle d’Aosta honey, frequently used as a natural sweetener or mixed with hot water to create a warm, soothing drink, ideal for facing the harsh mountain temperatures.
Finally, Valle d’Aosta craft beer is gaining increasing popularity, thanks to local breweries that use regional ingredients such as hops and Alpine herbs. These fresh and flavorful beers are perfect to accompany a meal or simply for a moment of relaxation after a day of hiking
The village is an ideal departure point for exploring the numerous attractions that enrich the area, offering unforgettable experiences for those passionate about history, nature, and mountain traditions.
One of the most historically significant sites is the Church of San Martino in Antagnod, a 15th-century church located in the homonymous hamlet. The church is a fine example of Alpine architecture, with a simple yet charming structure that harmonizes perfectly with the surrounding landscape. Inside, visitors can admire beautiful frescoes that narrate religious life and local traditions. The church is also an important reference point for the Champoluc community and a place of worship where religious devotion is celebrated.
The Ru Cortot da Barmasc is a historic trail that winds through the mountain landscape, following an ancient mule track that once connected the hamlets of Champoluc to the valley below. The route is particularly scenic, offering a breathtaking view of the village and the surrounding valley. Along the way, hikers can discover hidden corners and picturesque views that make the Ru Cortot an ideal destination for trekking and learning about local history.
The Monte Rosa Massif, one of the highest peaks in the Alps, is undoubtedly the highlight of Champoluc. The mountain is an unmissable destination for mountaineers and skiers, as well as for those who simply love to admire the breathtaking panorama it offers. Monte Rosa is a symbol of the majesty of the Alpine landscape, and its imposing presence dominates the Champoluc scenery, providing incredible opportunities for hiking, climbing, and ski touring.
Another enchanting destination is Lago Blu, located at 2,000 meters above sea level, accessible via an easy hike. This Alpine lake, surrounded by forests and snow-capped peaks, is a perfect spot for a peaceful walk, photography, or simply to enjoy the serenity of the landscape.
The Village of Mascognaz, one of the most charming corners of Champoluc, is an ancient hamlet that has preserved its traditional appearance. This picturesque mountain village, characterized by stone and wooden buildings, is perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in history and local traditions. Mascognaz is also renowned for its panoramic location, offering an unparalleled view of the surrounding mountains. The village is the ideal place for a stroll to discover the ancient Walser houses and the traditions of the past.
Finally, Sabots are the traditional wooden clogs that have been used for centuries by the inhabitants of the Valle d’Aosta. A symbol of mountain traditions, sabots were once essential for working in the fields and facing harsh winter conditions. Today, these clogs have become a cultural heritage symbol and are often purchased as souvenirs, allowing visitors to take home a piece of Valle d’Aosta tradition.
Durazzo (Durrës) - Tirana (Tiranë)
Tirana (Tiranë) - Tirana (Tiranë) TUDOR ITT
Valona (Vlorë) - Valona (Vlorë)
Alberobello (Pietramadre) - Lecce
Ceglie Messapica - Matera
Potenza - Napoli
Castel di Sangro - Tagliacozzo
Giulianova - Castelraimondo
Gubbio - Siena
Lucca - Pisa TUDOR ITT
Viareggio - Castelnovo ne' Monti
Modena - Viadana (Oglio-Po)
Rovigo - Vicenza
Treviso - Nova Gorica/Gorizia
Fiume Veneto - Asiago
Piazzola sul Brenta - San Valentino (Brentonico)
San Michele all'Adige (Fondazione Edmund Mach) - Bormio
Morbegno - Cesano Maderno
Biella - Champoluc
Verrès - Sestrière (Vialattea)
Roma - Roma
