Cycling Italy’s Dolomites Plus! the Sella Ronda

Explore the heart of Bolzano, the capital of the Trentino-Alto Adige region. Enjoy the beauty of the central Piazza Walther with its Gothic style cathedral and have a stroll in Piazza delle Erbe, a vibrant market corner where Italian daily life naturally flows. Get a glance over the charming via dei Portici (Arcade Street) and don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Archeological Museum where you’ll find the remains of Ötzi, a man who lived in the area during the Copper Age (3300 BC) and whose frozen body was found in the mountains in 1991.

We start our ride pedaling southwest out of Bolzano to reach the heart of one of the northernmost wine making areas of Italy. Vineyards dominate the landscape and the “wine-road” takes us to the traditional villages of Caldaro and Termeno, known world-wide for their production of Gewürztraminer, Lagrein and Caldaro Classico Superiore. On the way back to Bolzano enjoy quiet country roads that offer unique views over Lake Caldaro, a mecca for sailing and windsurfing enthusiast.

Distance: 59km (37mi) | Gain: 677m (2221ft) | Terrain | Day level: 3.5

Our bicycle ride today features a climb that brings us to the foot of some of the most spectacular rock faces in the Dolomites. This road offers stunning views over the Sciliar-Catinaccio Natural Park and its alpine peaks. Our hotel offers you the opportunity to get a massage, take a hike, or relax and enjoy the view. If you want an extra ride, head to Tires for jaw dropping views over the Rosengarten.

Distance: 47km (29mi) | Gain: 1434m (4704ft) | Terrain | Day level: 5.0

Today’s ride features unforgettable views of alpine meadows and sheer Dolomite cliffs. This afternoon we’ll visit the Agostinian Abbey of Novacella, founded in the 12th century, and known today not just for its spiritual importance but also for its wine production which we will take time to sample!

Distance: 55km (34mi) | Gain: 1131m (3710ft) | Terrain | Day level: 4.5

Enjoy the beauty and perfection of Tyrolean bike paths before leaving the Rienza river valley and climbing to the “sunny road.” Your efforts will be rewarded with captivating views over the Pusteria Valley. We’ll stop in Brunico to explore its charming historical town center. After a snack or a proper lunch, it’s back on our bikes to San Candido, a gem of Alta Pusteria Valley.

Distance: 72km (45mi) | Gain: 1329m (4359ft) | Terrain | Day level: 4.5

This morning we continue on towards Lake Braies, often described as the most beautiful lake of the entire Alps. On our way back to San Candido, we will gain elevation for some of the most impressive views over Tre Cime di Lavaredo Natural Park, which is part of UNESCO World Heritage Site, a recognition given to the entire Dolomites in 2009.

Distance: 60km (37mi) | Gain: 1099m (3605ft) | Terrain | Day level: 4.0

Today we head south and pedal along the Landro Valley. Landro Lake is an excellent spot for a mid-morning coffee before you continue your ride to Lake Misurina where you’ll have the option to climb 7 km up to Tre Cime di Lavaredo to enjoy the views. Anybody who prefers to enjoy the lake or pedal straight to Cortina can do so. Those who challenge themselves with the mighty climb to the base of three majestic peaks will have a quick descent to lunch at Lake Misurina. The more modest Passo Tre Croci is the last climb of the day, after which it’s a glide down into Cortina d’Ampezzo, known as “Queen of the Dolomites”.

Distance: 54km (34mi) | Gain: 1429m (4687ft) | Terrain | Day level: 4.5

Leave your cycling shoes behind today as we enjoy a hike along some of the most spectacular trails in the Dolomites. Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Tofane, and Monte Cristallo are just a few of the peaks that will surround us while we enjoy our rest day from biking.

A long, steady but gentle climb awaits us this morning as we pedal over one of the most famous passes of the Giro d’Italia, Passo Falzarego. Once at the top of the pass enjoy a cable car ride up the mountain for higher altitude, views, and/or lunch in the rifugio (mountain hut). From the pass, a long gliding downhill takes us into the Val Badia where Ladino, a local language that has controversial origins – is it a mixture of Latin and tribal dialects? Experts disagree, but it remains the first language of locals and is not readily understood by Italian speakers.

Distance: 37km (23mi) | Gain: 1138m (3733ft) | Terrain | Day level: 4.0

This morning we’ll pedal the legendary loop around the Sella Massif on the Dolomite High Road often a part of the Giro d’Italia! This 52 km (32 mile) loop features 5,600 feet (1707 meters) of climbing over 4 famous passes (Campolongo, Pordoi, Sella, and Gardena). Anybody wanting to relax in town or enjoy some more hiking is free to do so as well.

Distance: 51km (32mi) | Gain: 1687m (5533ft) | Terrain | Day level: 5.0

After breakfast, we’ll offer a group shuttle to Fortezza for your trip home. If time allows, why not stay a few extra days in this alpine paradise?