A valley that, while sharing some characteristics with other destinations already discussed, stands out for a mix of authenticity and professionalism that has allowed it to emerge in the world of mountain biking. We talk about it with Luca Bifezzi, aka “il Biffo”, the man behind the scenes of this fascinating transformation.
1. Who is Luca Bifezzi and how did he arrive in Val Vigezzo?
My name is Luca Bifezzi, I come from Canavese and it was there that I discovered my sporting passions: snowboarding, skateboarding and mountain biking. Over time, these passions have become the center of my work. For about 15 years, I have been involved in the design and development of snowparks and bikeparks.
I started as shaper atIndian Park Snowpark Cervinia, to then collaborate with Doors Snowpark Structures in Bardonecchia. These experiences have allowed me to work on projects both in Italy and abroad, enriching my vision and technical skills.
Ossola entered my life thanks to a proposal from Sand Snowpark, where I first followed the winter project and then the development of the bike park. It was here that I discovered Val Vigezzo, “The Valley of Painters”. When I concluded my experience in San Domenico, the opportunity to work with the team of Vigezzo & Friends to develop a bike project in the ski resort of Vigezzo plain. The beauty of the landscapes and the potential of the valley immediately won me over, giving rise to the project Vigezzo Bike Land.
2. What was the situation when you arrived?
When I arrived, I was aware that the terrain was complex, but the reality exceeded expectations. Fortunately, some lines already existed, thanks to the work of local enthusiasts, including a track that in 2008 had hosted the final of the regional championship of downhill.
The first step was to harmonize these tracks. The lines were very old school, therefore not very suitable for a wider audience. Our goal was to respect the previous work, but improve its pacing and accessibility.
3. How did you structure the work on the trails?
The work was divided into clear phases:
- Restoration: we made the existing trails passable to accommodate the first bikers.
- Exploration and Connections: many tracks overlapped or ended in the same places. We mapped the lines, recovered mule tracks and historical paths to create more complete and harmonious routes. Thanks to the locals, we maintained the original style, modernizing it.
- Enhancement: We have identified key sections to give each trail a unique identity.
- Expansion: sharp bends have been improved, drainage introduced and areas prone to erosion have been reinforced.
- New routes: We are working on more accessible tracks, with the aim of making them ready for 2025.
This organization has allowed us to respect the past, value the present and plan for the future.
4. What is the vision for the future of Vigezzo Bike Land?
We want to transform the valley into a reference destination, not only for experts in downhill, but also for cycle-tourists and e-bike enthusiasts. We have a territory rich in variety and unique trails, which already attract many European riders.
To embrace this vision, we moved from “Piana di Vigezzo Bike” to “Vigezzo Bike Land”, a name that reflects the entire valley and not just the ski resort.
5. What communication strategies have you adopted?
When we started, Piana di Vigezzo was perceived as an extreme destination. This was limiting, so we focused on the concept of “stimulating challenge”. Our trails are not difficult, but training: a place to improve your technique.
This strategy has worked, attracting mid-to-high level bikers who want to test themselves. To strengthen our positioning, we have started hosting enduro competitions.
6. Why was enduro your starting point?
Enduro is perfect for our territory: it tells the story of the valley and enhances the technical and natural trails. Most of the trails we have recovered are well suited to this discipline, which attracts bikers who are passionate about adventure and discovery.
7. Is it true that you received compliments from Bruni?
Yes, it really happened! Nicole, one of our collaborators, received a message from Loïc Bruni, but not knowing who he was, she thought it was a joke. In reality, the world champion had heard about us from the Swiss national team, which uses our trails for training.
8. Who is your main audience?
Currently, our audience is made up of medium-high level bikers, attracted by the technical nature of the trails. We also have a good number of cycle tourers, especially with e-bikes, who tackle the most challenging routes in the valley.
9. How important is the support of the ski resort?
Fundamental. The station provides essential infrastructure, and has allowed us to open the season with great flexibility. This support is crucial to achieving ambitious goals.
10. What is the future of Vigezzo Bike Land?
In three years I see Vigezzo Bike Land as a reality known abroad, with new trails and international enduro competitions. We have a blue trail, an XC race and expansion to other areas of the valley in the pipeline.
Our goal is to expand our audience, offering experiences for riders of all levels, while maintaining the uniqueness that distinguishes us.
This is the journey of Vigezzo Bike Land: a story of passion, commitment and love for an extraordinary valley.
