Run & Trail Camp in Biella

DAY 1: Biella - Track Athletics Testing

The first day of our Running Camp begins with an unmissable appointment: track athletics testing. The meeting is scheduled for 2:30 PM at the Accademia dello Sport, the headquarters of Apd Pietro Micca, which will become our base during the Camp.

Inside the Accademia dello Sport, you will also find Accademia Lab, a top-notch medical and physiotherapy center. Here, you will have the opportunity to undergo a series of basic tests and measurements, providing us with valuable information about your current level of performance. Additionally, you will have an initial introductory meeting with the physiotherapy staff who will be available to provide you with support and advice during the Camp.

Next, we will move to the Pozzo Lamarmora Stadium to carry out the track running tests. These tests will be crucial to complete your athletic profile, allowing us to assess your speed, endurance, and other important parameters for your performance. You will be accompanied by our experienced coaches who will guide you and provide valuable advice to get the most out of the tests.

At the end of the track training session, we will return to the Accademia dello Sport, where you will have access to changing rooms and showers to freshen up and regenerate. In the evening, a welcome dinner awaits you to socialize with the other Camp participants and spend the night at the hotel or B&B you have chosen for accommodation.

This first day, filled with track athletics testing, represents a fantastic opportunity to put your skills to the test and start the Camp on the right foot. We are ready to support you throughout this extraordinary journey of running and discovery in the heart of Biella.

DAY 2: GRAGLIA-SORDEVOLO-OROPA-BIELLA

Training 19 km dis + 500m

Early morning meeting at the "Accademia" and transfer to Graglia:

The first training session of the Running Camp takes place along the iconic Tracciolino road, one of the main scenic routes and the venue of "La 2Santuari Run & Trail". During our training, we will follow the path of the Run version, an asphalt strip immersed in a green and panoramic setting that connects the Santuaries of Graglia and Oropa. This hilly route of 19.5 km represents an important challenge and an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, seeking speed and pushing your limits.

The departure takes place from the Sanctuary of Graglia. This ancient place of worship dates back to the 17th century and is known for its baroque architecture and spiritual atmosphere.

During the run, you will have the opportunity to admire some points of interest along the route, including the charming Trappa di Sordevolo. This ancient monastery dating back to the 14th century holds great historical and cultural value. Its medieval architecture and mystical atmosphere create a unique experience during the training. You can take a short break to admire the beauty of Trappa di Sordevolo and breathe in the serene atmosphere of the place.

We will return to the "Accademia" before lunchtime. You can leave your clothes for the laundry service, which will be ready the day after your training.

In the afternoon, you will have free time for individual activities and optional excursions. We recommend taking advantage of this time to explore the beautiful surrounding region. You could visit the picturesque historic center of Biella, with its ancient medieval villages and picturesque streets. Alternatively, you could take a relaxing walk in the woods or enjoy some leisure time in the rejuvenating nature. Remember to allow for proper recovery after the training and listen to your body to avoid overexertion.

Take advantage of this free afternoon to relax and recharge your energy for the upcoming challenges of the Running Camp. Remember to maintain proper recovery after training and listen to your body to avoid overexertion.

DAY 3: BIELLA - OROPA

Training: 12 km distance + 800m elevation gain

It is the most challenging day of the Biella-Oropa route.

Once upon a time, there was a railway that connected the center of Biella to the Sanctuary of Oropa, known as the Ardita d'Italia. Through advanced engineering, this railway defied the elevation, climbing up to the Sanctuary. Despite the closure of the railway, the ascent has become a challenging ground for running and cycling enthusiasts over time, acquiring a mythical aura thanks to Marco Pantani's feat.

Marco Pantani, the legendary Italian cyclist, wrote an indelible page in the history of the Oropa climb during the 1999 Giro d'Italia. In the stage that concluded precisely at the Sanctuary of Oropa, Pantani displayed extraordinary determination and strength, defying the steep gradients and winning the stage triumphantly. His achievement has become legendary and has further enhanced the fame of the Oropa ascent.

We will meet early in the morning at the "Accademia" and perform a warm-up that will lead us to the starting point of the race, which takes place annually at the end of July. We will then tackle the 12 km of the Ardita until reaching the Prato delle Oche, in front of the Sanctuary.

Upon arriving at the Sanctuary, we will find our staff for a light refreshment before returning to Biella.

We will return to the "Accademia" before lunchtime. You can leave your clothes for the laundry service, which will be ready the day after your training ends.

In the afternoon, you will have free time for individual activities and optional excursions. A suggestion for your free afternoon is to visit the Ricetto di Candelo, a well-preserved and fascinating medieval village. You can stroll through its ancient streets, admire the historical architecture, and immerse yourself in the suggestive atmosphere of the place. Remember to enjoy your free time in a relaxing and rejuvenating way, always maintaining proper recovery after training and listening to your body.

DAY 4: BIELLA - VALLE CERVO - VALSESSERA

Training: 12 km with an elevation gain of +700 m

We will meet early in the morning at the "Accademia" and transfer to Andorno Micca.

The Trail has a relatively recent tradition, but in the valleys of Biella, one of the longest and most historic competitions in Italy takes place. Organized by a great pioneer in this discipline, Maurizio Scilla, the Trail del Monte Casto has become a prestigious event among enthusiasts. On the last day of the Running Camp, guided by Mau Scilla, we will tackle a section of about 12 km of this competition. The route, although challenging, is quite manageable and fast, winding through Monte Casto, Oasi Zegna, Bocchetto Sessera, and Valsessera.

The Trail del Monte Casto route features a variety of terrains, including mountain trails, forest sections, and stretches of dirt roads. We will face a positive elevation gain of approximately 700 meters, testing our endurance and strength.

In previous years, the Trail del Monte Casto has seen the participation of numerous talented athletes and has awarded prominent winners. Some of the previous edition's winners include Christian Minoggio, a member of the Italian Trail World Team, and Elisa Desco, an internationally renowned trail running athlete. The competition offers a stimulating challenge for trail running enthusiasts, allowing them to test their abilities on an iconic course.

During the route, you will have the opportunity to admire the enchanting Oasi Zegna. This protected natural area, created thanks to the commitment of industrialist Ermenegildo Zegna, offers breathtaking landscapes, lush forests, and panoramic trails. You can immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, breathe fresh air, and enjoy the surrounding beauty.

Additionally, you will have the chance to pass through the picturesque Bocchetto Sessera, a mountain pass that offers spectacular views of Valle Cervo and Valsessera. You can admire the surrounding peaks and be captivated by the majesty of the mountains.

We will return to the "Accademia" before lunchtime, where a farewell lunch will be held to conclude the Running Camp.

Before leaving Biella, don't miss the opportunity for a final tasting or a visit to the local factory stores and outlets.