Road Biking

Road Biking

The Dolomite Mountains offer excellent road biking, and cycling is so popular here, there are even a few days each year where they close the roads for cyclists! There are plenty of steeps and passes to ascend – the mountain stage of the Giro di Italia race takes place here most years!  But don’t worry – it’s not all uphill – there are also lots of flat meandering trails that will take you from charming town to charming town, or north to the border with Austria!

Road biking takes place between 1,200 and 2,400 meters / 4,000 and 8,000 feet of elevation. Easier biking trips will stay at lower elevations, and see little or no elevation change, while more difficult trips will increasingly offer steeper ascents and descents, with an increasing number of climbs over high passes included in the itinerary.

Our easy trips are perfect for people who want to see the Dolomites at a relaxed pace, are more interested in the flora and fauna and the cultural and historical aspects of the region, and for families with small children.  Road bike rides range from 1 to 3 hours and average 8-25 kilometers / 5-15 miles per day.  Terrain is usually relatively flat with little elevation gain (up to 150 meters / 500 feet), on roads and paved paths. The pace is leisurely, with stops along the way at historic sites and villages. On most days, cycling activities are optional, and there are options for transfers via private or public transportation.

Our easy to moderate trips are great for people who want to see the Dolomites at a relatively relaxed pace, yet still want to feel like they got some exercise, and for families with children.  Road biking rides last from 2-4 hours, with plenty of free time for other exploration. Rides can cover up to 15-50 kilometers / 10-30 miles per day, with gentle ascents and descents of up to 150-750 meters / 500-2,500 feet. The pace is leisurely, with stops along the way at historic sites and villages. On most days, cycling activities are optional, and there are options for transfers via private or public transportation.

Moderate trips are active, with full days of activities. These trips are perfect for people who want to be active, yet still have some time to explore the cultural aspects and opportunities for relaxation available in the Dolomites in the afternoon.  Rock climbing trips include beginner and intermediate routes (grades 4-5a and some 5b) – great for those who want to themselves a little yet stay within their comfort zone.

Our moderate to challenging trips are demanding, with a whole lot of fun along the way. There will be no question in your mind whether you accomplished something at the end of each day!  Road bike rides are up to 6 to 8 hours, lasting all day with a stop for lunch. Rides can cover up to 60-90 kilometers / 35-60 miles per day, climbing steep passes with ascents and descents of up to 1,500-3,000 meters / 5,000-10,000 feet. While the pace is not leisurely, it is always comfortable, and there are ample stops for water and snacks to keep you going. 

Our challenging trips are exactly that – challenging!  These trips are designed for guests in excellent physical condition, who have a strong spirit of adventure.  Road bike rides range from 6 to 8 hours, lasting all day with a stop for lunch.  While distance and elevation ranges are similar to moderate to challenging trips, trips are longer and the upper end of the range is tackled most days – you’ll have plenty of opportunities to push yourself on these trips! Rides cover 60-90 kilometers / 35-60 miles every day, climbing steep passes with ascents and descents of 1,500-3,000 meters / 5,000-10,000 feet, or more. While the pace is not leisurely, it is always comfortable, and there are stops for water and snacks to keep you going.