The route begins in Zona Bagni in Acqui Terme, an area that takes its name from its huge swimming pool, built in 1932. In its day, this was the biggest thermal pool in Europe. The huge pools still go by the name of the 'biggest pools in Europe' and continue to be a big attraction for Acqui.
Start by pedalling along the cycle path past the Roman arches, the ruins of the aqueduct that once provided the town's water. Carry on up the Erro valley, along the roads following the river, which is a tributary of the Bormida.
After pedalling for about 1.4 km, turn right onto the SS 334 and go along it for 50 m, then take the tarmacked uphill road on the left. Follow the GPX track and you'll arrive at the road to Valle Orecchie, near Cavatore. Make the challenging climb up it for 2 km and you'll get to the middle of Cavatore. It's worth stopping in the village to see the country church of San Lorenzo, a prime example of the purest Piedmontese Romanesque. It's also worth visiting the Romanesque tower and the church of Sant’Antonio Abate.
Carry on in the direction of Ponzone. After 3.5 km, take the track on your right, which will take you past the bike-friendly farm stay Le Piagge, where you can taste excellent organic products grown on site, including porcini mushrooms when in season.
Keep right at the tennis court and turn to go down to the bottom of the valley. Cross a little bridge over a stream, which is almost always dry, and begin the climb to Rifugio Banca, near the village of Castosio, a little hut that's open and accessible to everyone. We advise you to respect the place and leave everything as you find it. People often have night-time adventures and camp out here. This route is inspired by a feeling of freedom and immersion in nature. All cyclists should take their rubbish with them and respect the environment on every trip they take.
Carry on along the track and head downhill to the little church of San Felice, near the village of Melazzo. Once you get onto the SS 334, start the homeward stretch, turning right for 1 km then left and going over an iron bridge over the river Erro. Turn right again onto a flat track. Follow the river Erro for about 3 km, then join the SS 230 for the last 4 km to Acqui Terme.