In recent years, we've repeatedly discussed how a well-designed and managed trail network can become a driver of development for a region, capable of attracting visitors, generating economic growth, and creating new opportunities for local communities. We also discussed this in our in-depth article on the importance of trails for the development of outdoor destinations, which you can find here. HERE
But for this to happen, skills, collaboration, and a shared vision are needed. This is why anyone involved in trail management, whether volunteering or looking to turn this passion into a profession, should attend events like the IMBA Italia Gathering. This is where trail management, maintenance, regional development, and outdoor tourism are discussed. This is where concrete topics are explored, where we engage with other enthusiasts and professionals, and where relationships are built that allow us to grow, improve, and contribute to an increasingly broad, serious, and structured MTB offering.
In this spirit, registration has opened for the IMBA Italia Gathering 2026, the sixth edition of the annual event of the Italian MTB community, scheduled for October 24 and 25 in Nimis, in the heart of the Torre Valleys, in Friuli Venezia Giulia.
Until July 31st, you can take advantage of the Early Bird rate, which provides a discount on all participation options.
The Torre Valleys are at the heart of the 2026 edition
For the first time, the IMBA Italia Gathering arrives in Friuli Venezia Giulia, a region that has invested in recent years in enhancing its trails and developing outdoor tourism.
The municipalities of Nimis, Tarcento, and Lusevera, within the Natisone and Torre Mountain Community, will host two days dedicated to discussion, training, and hands-on experience in the area.
The choice of location is no coincidence. The Torre Valleys represent an interesting example of how a mountainous region can create new economic and tourism opportunities through a network of trails, collaboration between public bodies and associations, and the valorization of its natural resources.
The theme: trails as a common good
The 2026 edition will be dedicated to the theme:
“Trails as a common good: local communities and outdoor practices for new territorial identities.”
A particularly timely topic that will bring the role of trail infrastructure in the sustainable development of mountain areas to the forefront of the debate, analyzing the contribution of local communities, public administrations, and industry operators in building new tourism and recreational identities.
The program
Saturday, October 24: conference and round table
Saturday will be dedicated to the speakers' interventions, to technical insights and to an institutional round table which will see administrators, associations, professionals and operators in the sector discuss.
For the first time in the event's history, international speakers will also be present, sharing experiences and models from various European contexts.
Among the topics covered:
- cycle tourism economy;
- management of protected areas;
- European trail management models;
- experiences from Slovenia and IMBA Europe;
- major cross-border cycle tourism itineraries;
- development of Italian trail areas.
The names of the speakers will be announced in the coming weeks.
Sunday, October 25: MTB and field workshop
The second day will be dedicated to exploring the Torre Valleys through mountain bike tours and hands-on workshops.
The program also includes a visit to the Villanova Cave, one of the most important karst caves in Friuli Venezia Giulia.
Registrations are open
There are three ways to participate:
- Conference + 2 coffee breaks: 25 euros in Early Bird (40 euros standard rate);
- Conference + 2 coffee breaks + lunch: 55 euros in Early Bird (70 euros standard rate);
- Conference + 2 coffee breaks + lunch + dinner: 85 euros in Early Bird (100 euros standard rate).
All tickets include the Saturday conference and the Sunday ride and workshop. Accommodation is not included.
An increasingly important event for Italian MTB
Over the years, the IMBA Italia Gathering has become the main meeting point for those who work, design, maintain, and promote mountain bike trails.
It's not just a conference and it's not just a ride: it's a space for collective growth where experiences are shared, common problems are addressed, and new opportunities are created for the future of Italian mountain biking.
For those who believe that trails are a strategic resource for local areas and a tool for sustainable development, the Nimis event is an opportunity not to be missed.
