The Bike Gourmet project embraces Valchiavenna, Valtellina and Val Bregaglia and aims to discover typical local products by bikeA simple idea, but one capable of opening up an infinite number of opportunities, and that's how this project took hold and is still growing.
«This is an international cooperation initiative between Italy and Switzerland – explains Giulia Guanella of the Valchiavenna Tourist Consortium – which sees the municipality of Buglio in Monte as the leader, to which are added Traona and Ardenno, the latter are both located in the lower Valtellina. The aim is to increase the influx of cycle tourists, and in doing this we have identified the route that starts from Maloja and arrives at Buglio in Monte. All but a small stretch, the route runs along the Valtellina and Valchiavenna cycle paths, to which the Maloja trail is added.
Between bikes and taste
The underlying theme of the Bike Gourmet project is to discover typical local products by bike. It involves visiting producers, artisans, wineries, and shops.
«What matters most to us – continues Giulia Guanella – is to make our territory known through experiencesIn doing this, cycle paths and trails act as fil rougeIn fact, we contacted the businesses located near the cycle paths, involving them in this project. There will not only be space for these territories, tourists will also be able to enjoy different routes, not as famous as those mentioned above."
«Precisely for this reason – he explains – we start from a “single route” that leads from Maloja to Buglio in Monte. But, given that in one stretch you have to pass on the main road, a change of route that leads from there to the lateral valleys cannot be excludedFor those who don't want to leave the main route, a shuttle service has also been provided using an electric van.
As you like
Bike Gourmet is growing and expanding, aiming to provide tourists with a 360-degree experience. There's no limit to any objective, and neither are the routes; everyone is free to create their own.
«Going on the our site – concludes Giulia Guanella – everyone puts together the package they like bestDuring the winter it will be enriched with further experiences in the area. There are no pre-established routes, but experiences which can be “composed” as you like. You can go from the classic day trip to combining experiences that will make you stay with us for a whole week.».
«In order to offer an experience that is truly accessible to everyone, we have decided to make a significant investment providing 12 charging stations for e-bikes, with their accompanying bikes. This way, even the least experienced tourist will be able to enjoy our experiential packages."
