Why We Ride Molini – And Why it Feels So Different

MTB Holidays Molini. The ultimate MTB Basecamp.

When people ask us why Molini?, it’s hard to give a quick answer.

It’s not just about the trails (though yes, they’re incredible). It’s about the feeling you get when you’re out here. The quiet. The rawness. The sense that you’ve stepped off the radar and into something different - something more connected.

Molini di Triora isn’t built around biking. It’s a small village in the Ligurian Alps with stone houses, forested valleys, and a deep stillness that’s hard to find elsewhere. It just so happens to have some of the most beautiful, untouched mountain terrain we’ve ever ridden.

And that’s why we’re here.

Riding in Molini is a Bit… Different

If you’re used to lifts, perfectly shaped flow trails, or bike parks with burgers at the bottom - this isn’t it.

The trails around here weren’t built for bikes. Many of them were old shepherd paths, trade routes, or forest tracks long before we ever put tires on them. That’s part of what makes them so special. They're technical, wild, sometimes unpredictable - and always rewarding.

We don’t ride here for speed or stats. We ride here for feel. For the connection to the terrain, the forest, and the silence in between switchbacks.

When’s the Best Time to Come?

We ride most of the year, but the vibe changes with the seasons:

  • Spring (April - June) is lush, green, and full of life. Trails are softer, and you’ll probably have them to yourself.

  • Summer (July - August) offers a cool retreat from the coastal heat. Higher altitudes make for long, comfortable riding days.

  • Autumn (September - October) is our personal favourite - perfect dirt, golden light, and the scent of chestnuts in the air.

If it sounds romantic, that’s because it kind of is.

Getting Here & Staying Local

Molini feels remote, but it’s actually pretty easy to reach.

We’re about 90 minutes from Nice Airport (France), or a road trip through Switzerland or over the Brenner pass down to the Mediterranean. Once you’re here, you’ll realise quickly: it’s not just about the riding - it’s about slowing down.

That’s why we started aTIPICO OUTDOOR ESCAPE right here in the heart of Molini.

We offer rider-friendly stays with space to tune your bike, hang your wet gear, grab a local beer, and plan your next descent. You can book a shuttle, ask us about trail conditions, or just sit down and talk bikes. We're here for it.

This Is a Place to Ride with Respect

The trails aren’t marked with huge bike park signs and maps telling you where to go or what level of trail you're riding. And while that might seem challenging, it’s also what keeps this place special.

We share these trails with hikers, locals, and wildlife - so it’s important to ride considerately, stay on track, and move through the landscape like we want to keep being welcome here. (Because we do.)

And yes of course you can see the trails on Trailforks and komoot, we maintain these platforms ourselves to make sure what is displayed on there reflects reality. But booking a guide supports the local scene, and it’ll help you get the most out of your time here.

Off the Bike: What Slowing Down Feels Like

There’s no après scene, no party town at the bottom of the hill. After your ride, it’s about simple things: a cold drink, a warm meal, a hot shower, and a quiet night under the stars.

We end the day with Aperitivo in our quaint little bars, with our feet in the river and after ride BBQs (or all of this combined). Sometimes there's homemade limoncello, sometimes just the sound of the forest.

Honestly? That’s part of why we never left.

So, Why Molini?

Because it feels different.

The pace, the people, the riding - it’s all about connection, not consumption. If you’re into natural terrain, long descents, quiet moments, and real adventure, we think you’ll get it.

And if you do, we’d love to share it with you.

🟢 Book your stay or shuttle
💬 Have a question? Get in touch

FAQs

Is Molini good for mountain biking?
Yes, if you like natural terrain, remote trails, and big mountain riding. It’s best suited to experienced riders.

Do I need a guide?
You don’t have to—but we always recommend one for your first few days. It helps you get your bearings and supports the local MTB community.

How do I get there?
Nice Airport (France) is the easiest route to fly in. From there, it’s about a 90-minute drive. And for a little road trip from “up North” you can travel through Switzerland or via the Brenner pass down towards the Mediterranean.

Is there a shuttle service?
Yes - shuttle days can be booked directly through aTIPICO OUTDOOR ESCAPE. Small shuttle groups guaranteed, and always with a local guide who knows the terrain.

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Ride Molini. Ride Atipico.