The Trompia Valley is the place where I was born and raised. In this Collection, I will take you along lesser-known and less frequented trails and forest roads. The ideal way to navigate these two routes is by mountain bike, although gravel bikes with 40-inch or larger tyres are also suitable for tackling this itinerary.

The route follows that of a local event I organised, known as the Valle Trompia Bike Trail. This cycling gathering was created with the aim of acquainting others with this pre-Alpine region, which holds a profound significance for me, owing to ancestral ties and a deep sense of territorial belonging. In this region, you'll travel through areas undergoing depopulation, a trend driven by migration of residents towards urban centres in recent decades, leaving these territories in a delicate state.

You won't face any overly technical challenges, and the route is entirely navigable, provided you have well-conditioned legs and some off-road experience. While some ascents may be steep, you can dismount and push the bike if you find it necessary along the route.

If you're swift and pedal at a brisk pace, you could complete the entire route in a single ride. This itinerary measures just under 100 kilometres (60 mi) with an elevation gain of 3,100 metres (10,170 ft). If you prefer to split it into two, you'll find the separate segments detailed in this Collection. The starting and ending point is Rovedolo Park, a spacious sports hub with ample parking where you can leave your car without any issues. It’s located in the municipality of Gardone Val Trompia, about 20 kilometres (12 mi) from Brescia. If you wish to reach Rovedolo Park by bike, it lies directly along a stretch of cycle path that connects the city of Brescia with the Trompia Valley.

I suggest checking for available accommodation at the end of the first stage. You'll reach the Caregno plateau, a beautiful area at the foot of Mount Guglielmo, a symbol of the entire province. Here, you’ll find a range of dining options, B&Bs and all the essential amenities for a two-day stopover.

You can tackle this itinerary in your preferred season, perhaps avoiding the winter chill when the ground may be icy and potentially hazardous.