Introduction

Waking up on the Ligurian coast in Sestri Levante, the morning sun was already throwing a warm golden sheen across the Tyrrhenian Sea. By 08:30am, the temperature was rising fast, signaling another glorious summer day in Italy. Our bikes were lined up neatly outside the hotel, fairings gleaming under the palms and exhaust headers ready to sing. Day 11 marked a dramatic transition on our flagship 15-day tour—leaving behind the turquoise waters and salt air of the Italian Riviera to climb inland toward the world-famous winemaking heartland of Piedmont.

As tour leader, morning briefings on Day 11 always carry a distinct energy. By this point in the journey, our group of riders has transformed into a tight-knit unit. Eleven days of carving mountain passes, sharing Italian espresso stops, and riding thousands of miles together creates an effortless harmony on the road. Everyone knows the drop-off marker system blindfolded, cornering techniques are sharper than ever, and the banter over morning prep is second nature. Today’s target was Canelli in the province of Asti, nestled deep within UNESCO-protected vine-covered hills.

Before buckling helmets and clicking into first gear, we took a moment to absorb the coastal view. Sestri Levante had treated us to incredible seafood and beachside relaxation, but the winding roads of the Ligurian Apennines were calling. The engines roared to life, echoing off the stone villas as we rolled out toward the highway ramp and into the foothills.

Today’s Route

Today’s route was carefully crafted to highlight Italy’s astonishing geographical diversity within a compact 150-mile span. Leaving Sestri Levante, we headed north-west, leaving the coast to tackle the winding climb across the Ligurian Apennines. The road twisted upward through dense chestnut forests and exposed rock faces, crossing from Liguria into southern Piedmont near the historic Passo della Bocchetta corridor.

After descending the northern slopes of the Apennines, the landscape opened into gentle rolling hills lined with immaculate rows of vines. We made our midday pit stop at Piazza Roma in Gavi, famous for its world-renowned Gavi di Gavi white wine. The final afternoon stretch threaded west through the heart of the Monferrato hills, navigating whisper-quiet twisties that curved between hillcrest villages before delivering us to the historic cellar town of Canelli.

The Ride

Leaving Sestri Levante, the immediate contrast between sea-level coastal warmth and mountain elevation was striking. As we climbed higher into the Ligurian Apennines, the air freshened slightly, giving our engines a crisp bite. The tarmac here is technical and rewarding—sharp hairpins followed by sweeping third-gear arcs that demand smooth throttle control and confident vision through the bends.

Around noon, we rolled into the sun-dappled square of Piazza Roma in Gavi. Gavi is a quintessential Piedmontese town, centered around cobbled plazas, pastel shutters, and quiet cafe terraces. We pulled up right in the square, parked the bikes under the shade of ancient trees, and shed our riding jackets. Sitting down at a local cafe with hot double espressos and ice-cold water, the feeling of relaxed contentment was total.

With caffeine reserves restored and riding jackets back on, we launched into the afternoon run towards Canelli. This section of the ride felt like motorcycling paradise. The roads through Monferrato drape over hilltops like green silk ribbons. Every crest revealed panoramic vistas of endless vineyards stretching toward distant Alpine contours on the horizon. The asphalt was surprisingly smooth, with cambered corners that allowed us to set a fluid, rhythmic pace.

By mid-afternoon, we crested the final ridge overlooking Canelli. Nestled at the foot of the Belbo Valley, Canelli is famous worldwide as the birthplace of Italian sparkling wine and home to the subterranean ‘Underground Cathedrals’—miles of historical wine cellars carved deep into the tufa rock beneath the city streets. We rolled into town under brilliant blue skies, pulling up for an afternoon rest and regrouping session.

Rider Experiences

Every rider in our group had something special to say about today’s leg. For Mark, riding his BMW R1250GS, the morning climb out of Sestri Levante was the highlight: “After days of open highways and coastal traffic, getting into those tight Apennine switchbacks was just magic. The bike felt weightless in the corners, and the grip on those mountain roads was brilliant.”

Sarah, piloting her Tracer 9 GT, fell in love with the Piedmontese countryside: “Riding through Gavi and into Canelli was like motoring through a postcard. You crest a hill and there are miles of vineyards glowing under the afternoon sun. Stopping for coffee in Piazza Roma, taking off the lid, and chatting with local villagers who came over to inspect the bikes—that is what European touring is all about.”

Our pit stop in Canelli gave us a chance to sample some local culinary treasures. A local trattoria served up platters of creamy Robiola di Roccaverano and aged Toma cheese alongside crusty Italian bread. Pairing incredible food with great riding stories is the heartbeat of every Wild Roads tour.

Hotel & Evening

After settling into our boutique hotel in Canelli, bikes parked safely in the secure courtyard, the group reconvened on the outdoor terrace as evening approached. The air softened as the sun began to drop behind the Monferrato hills, casting long shadows across the valley.

Dinner was an authentic Piedmontese feast. We dined at a family-run osteria, starting with hand-rolled agnolotti del plin, roasted meats, and seasonal truffle dishes, finished with a chilled glass of local Moscato d’Asti. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and laughter as we reviewed the day’s GPS tracks, compared lean angles, and toasted another successful stage on our epic journey across Europe.

Tomorrow

Tomorrow, Day 12 of our tour, we point our front wheels further north-west, pointing towards the majestic High Alps. Leaving the gentle vine-clad hills of Asti behind, we will ride toward the soaring peaks of the Aosta Valley and the towering grand passes that border France and Switzerland. Expect big elevation changes, cool Alpine air, hairpin turns above the tree line, and views that will take your breath away. Make sure to check back for tomorrow’s update!

Ride This Tour Yourself

Ready to experience the thrill of carving through the Ligurian Apennines, relaxing in historic Italian piazzas, and exploring Piedmont’s finest wine country on two wheels? Our 15-day guided motorcycle tour, Twisties & The Tuscan Sun, is the ultimate European riding adventure.

We handle every single detail—from hand-picked motorcycle-friendly hotels and luggage support to expertly planned routes, lead rider guidance, and full GPS route files. Places for our 2027 departures are filling up quickly.

Click here to discover full tour details, dates, and itinerary for Twisties & The Tuscan Sun!

FAQ

Q: What is the distance and riding terrain between Sestri Levante and Canelli?
A: Day 11 covers approximately 150 miles (240 km). The terrain transitions from coastal roads to technical mountain passes over the Ligurian Apennines, followed by smooth, sweeping country roads through the Monferrato vineyard hills in Piedmont.

Q: Is this stage suitable for intermediate motorcycle riders?
A: Yes! While the Apennine climbs include tight hairpins and technical sections, the manageable daily distance and relaxed group pace make it enjoyable for any confident intermediate rider comfortable with hill starts and mountain bends.

Q: How does Wild Roads choose rest stops like Gavi and Canelli?
A: We select stops based on authentic local character, rider safety, secure motorcycle parking, and excellent regional food and coffee. Piazza Roma in Gavi and historic Canelli offer the perfect balance of culture, scenic beauty, and hospitality.

Q: What should riders pack for warm summer riding in northern Italy?
A: High-temperature Italian summers require well-ventilated riding jackets with mesh paneling, hydration packs or water bottles, light base layers, and UV protection for stops along the way.

Q: How can I join a Wild Roads guided motorcycle tour in 2027?
A: You can view all upcoming dates and request a free 2027 tour pack by visiting our website or submitting your details in the form below!

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