The Terre di Vignale cycling association was founded on 23 April 1982 thanks to the passion of Piero Cordera and Lauro Assandri. Since then, they have been organising events for amateur cyclists who are members of the FCI (Italian Cycling Federation) or bodies of the Cycling Council every year. The characteristics of the short route, however, mean that it can be taken year round by cycling tourists who wish to get better acquainted with the Monferrato Casalese area.
On the last Sunday in July each year, hundreds of amateur cyclists who have registered for the Mediofondo Terre di Vignale marathon set out from the village that it’s named after. Some choose the Mediofondo proper of 98 km and some the shorter 56 km route. The 'short' route that we’re considering includes attractive minor roads and great views.
Start from Vignale Monferrato (cycle tourism events start from a historic sponsor location) on Via Piave, which has ample parking nearby. Climb to the central square, Piazza del Popolo, with the council building and regional winery. The Vignale Monferrato Festival is held here each year at the end of June, a week packed with dance events and folk dancing.
Head down to the 'Tronco di Vignale', following the sign for Alessandria at the roundabout. At the end of the short descent, turn right to Altavilla station. Continue towards Asti as far as Montemagno along the SP 52. After admiring the view of its majestic castle, proceed on a road featuring great views as far as Grana. Come down to the bottom of the valley and its little river, which is named after the village you just came from. Take the road towards Casorzo as far as the junction with Cascine Moncucchetto signposted on the left. Take the narrow track up to the village then continue to Grazzano Badoglio. Among other things, this village is famous for the ancient game of tamburello, here played with a wall thanks to the ASD Grazzano Badoglio. Leave the village in the direction of Ottiglio Monferrato on attractive roads through the hills leading to a panoramic view of the village coming down. Climb towards upper Ottiglio in the direction of Sala Monferrato, the village of Muletta Monferrina De.Co. salami, a locally designated typical product. Take the road signposted for Ozzano. When you get to the junction for Treville, head down on the right towards Ozzano and turn right for Rosignano Monferrato after about 500 m. On an attractive road with good views, come to the bottom of the village, then turn left where ‘Circuito degli Infernot’ is signposted. Another road with more good views takes you to the Montalino Cornalasca area. Come down and take the second right at the junction up to the hamlet of Costalora. Continue to the stop sign then, taking care, turn left for the Mandoletta descent. Come down it for about 1 km then come off on the right for Terruggia. When you get to the village, head down Strada Cacciolo until the crossroads on SP 50. Take care crossing the road then head straight on for San Maurizio, a village in Conzano. Some ups and downs then take you to Conzano itself.
Now there’s a classic road for local cyclists: from the ridge on the hills to Camagna Monferrato then back towards Vignale Monferrato after about 55 km.