Not only a destination for expert cyclists, the wonderful landscapes and roads at the foot of the Dolomites are the ideal itinerary for those who love to combine sport, tourism and, why not, a bit of adventure.
Among high peaks that stand out against the blue sky, almost as a postcard, green meadows and beautiful roads that wind through timeless landscapes, discovering the Dolomites by bike is a green experience everyone should try at least once in a lifetime. Thanks to the variety of landscapes, ranging from valleys dotted with small lakes of glacial origin with clear blue-green waters, to highlands and peaks, the itineraries dedicated to cycling in the area are suitable for both experienced cyclists and amateurs. However, a minimum of preparation is recommended to fully enjoy the beauty that the area offers. Don’t worry if you’re not fit enough, e-bikes or pedal-assisted bicycles can be a good substitute for trekking bikes to face your trip in the best way.
The best way to explore the area involves a circular tour through the main valleys and points of interest between the regions of Trentino Alto-Adige and Veneto, united by the beauty of the Dolomites’ white peaks, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Password: forget the steep climbs worthy of a time trial, since the tour runs on bike paths and secondary roads with slight differences in height.
Starting from the area of Alta Val Pusteria, the northernmost part of the Dolomites, you will discover the ruins of the ancient defensive barrier of the Chiusa di Rio Pusteria and then proceed to the ancient monastery of Neustift and the Franzensfeste fortress. The medieval castle of Trostburg, then, will be the destination of a small cultural break before continuing the journey to Bolzano, a wonderful cosmopolitan city where you can experience the best of the Tyrolean cultural and culinary tradition. Before getting back on track, a visit to its historic center and to the traditional fruit and vegetable and artisan markets is a must.
A tree-lined road dotted with vineyards and fruit trees will lead you to Trento, a lively city that is home to the Buonconsiglio Castle, the residence of the prince-bishops of Trento from the 13th to the 18th century, the Cathedral of S.Virgilio, the seat of the Council of Trento from 1545 to 1563, and the MUSE – the interactive Science Museum of Trento. Then move towards the border with Veneto along the ancient Roman road of “Via Claudia Augusta”, which once connected the Po Valley to Bavaria, to reach the city of Belluno with its historic center with a flavor of yesteryear. The Dolomites will be your travel companions towards the refined city of Cortina d’Ampezzo (in Veneto), a winter sports and shopping paradise and the destination of the Winter Olympics in 2026.
In the final part of your bike ride to the city of Toblach there will be plenty of natural wonders, including the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park, dotted with glacial lakes and protected wildlife areas, and the Tre Cime Nature Park, whose peaks are tinged with beautiful pink hues every day.
