A 40-kilometre loop takes cyclists across the hills south of Novi Ligure and among the vineyards of Gavi and Dolcetto on some easy stretches of dirt road.
From Novi Ligure, head out of town for Gavi, climbing the narrow road with a fair amount of traffic for about 1 km, then turn left for Monterotondo. After 1.5 km (3 km) turn left onto Strada Castellone. This route features great views as it passes by estates and vineyards towards Serravalle Scrivia. At the junction (6.5 km), turn left towards Monterotondo. Head down into the wood, passing in front of the LA RAIA estate, then make a steep climb of about 1 km to Monterotondo (10 km – 315 m.a.s.l.), home to famous wineries. Continue towards Gavi. After 3 km of ups and downs, you'll reach a level stretch that runs along the imposing fortress that sits above on the right. Proceed to cross the provincial road from Serravalle for Gavi (13 km). Turn right to enter Gavi. In addition to the fortress, the Romanesque church of San Giacomo and the medieval gate also deserve a visit. Coming out of the town, head towards San Cristoforo. A gentle stretch along the valley takes you to the start of the 1.5 km-long vertical climb of 100 m to San Cristoforo (19 km – 300 m.a.s.l.). Before the end of the village, turn right towards Novi Ligure and then left straight away onto the beautiful Strada del Rondanino, the road that travels alongside vineyards for about 5 kilometres before it intersects with the road for Francavilla. Turn right here, descending quickly until you pass the River Lemme. At Francavilla Bisio, take the road up to the castle that leads to Tassarolo after 3 km (30 km). Head down again to the little church of San Defendente and turn right for Pasturana on a track that flanks the golf course. This leads to the road heading up to the village via two hairpin bends. There’s an opportunity to stop at the 7th-century church of San Martino and quench your thirst at the fountain on the way out of the village (35 km). Continue on the provincial road and return to Novi after 3 km. The total length of the route is about 40 km.