The placid flow of water and the peaceful whir of your wheels are meditative. These relaxing sounds will accompany you as you cycle from Lombardy to Piedmont in Italy.

This gravel loop takes you from Milan to Lake Maggiore, passing through a landscape rich in nature. The Naviglio Grande flows out of the city to Ticino Park. From here, you’ll follow the river of the same name to the shores of Lake Maggiore and ride up the northern part of the Piedmont coast. You’ll only leave the water to reach one of Lake Maggiore’s most beautiful panoramic balconies in Premeno. Next, a ferry takes you across the water to Lombardy’s shore. From here, you’ll skirt Lake Varese and join the Olona Valley cycle path, flanked by the river of the same name. Riding along greenways and cycle paths, you’ll meet the Villoresi canal and the Olona spillway and enter Milan along a green corridor – the Bosco in Città.

In total, you’ll travel 266 kilometres (165 mi) with 2,300 metres (7,500 ft) of climbing, much of it halfway through the route. Your efforts will be rewarded by breathtaking views: quiet waters winding between the soft hills surrounding the lake, with the Po Valley in the distance, the starting point of the loop.

The first part of the route follows an asphalt cycle path alongside the river, hugged by nature. The second part leads along secondary and quiet roads. Finally, the last part winds mainly on gentle and compact dirt roads.

This itinerary is suitable for anyone who wants to enjoy a slow-paced journey through nature to discover some lesser-known areas close to Milan. I recommend riding a gravel bike, touring bike or MTB. The dirt roads are gentle, so suspension isn’t necessary, but it’s definitely not suitable for road bikes.

When packing your panniers for this mini-adventure, don't forget to bring some snacks to enjoy during your ride and a change of clothes for the evening. You can undertake this journey in all seasons, but spring and autumn are best as the colours come alive. Summer can be scorching and winter is cold.

If you decide to sleep in accommodation such as hotels or B&Bs, you’ll have a wide choice along the route. If, however, you don’t mind carrying a tent, you’ll be able to stay in campsites, on the lakeshore, or in the hills. The start and end point – Milan Central Station – is easily reachable by train and you can take your bike onboard.

All that’s left is to hop on your bike and let the water guide you!