It’s not just the immensity of the Dolomites that leaves you spellbound. It’s also the way these mountains caress the light. Casting shadows at unexpected angles, creating a magical painterly effect as if the entire landscape were an enormous yet meticulously rendered stage set. It’s the long twisting climbs and glorious descents. And the thrill of riding legendary Giro d’Italia routes that inspires you along the way. It’s the endless hiking options if you’re keen for a change of pace. And the simple bliss of a hearty alpine meal, delicious local wines and luxurious welcoming homes-away-from-home.
Day 1 A captivating mix of Italian, Austrian and Ladin cultures
Ready to dive into the mountains? Our vigorous warm-up ride to Bressanone offers a taste of what’s to come.
Day 2 Savor Michelin-starred cuisine at La Stüa de Michil
Tackle a 12-mile ascent in the electric-green Val di Funes, beneath the looming 8,000-foot cliffs of the Odle mountains Taste regional vintages in our hotel’s world-class wine cellar.
Day 3 The Sella Ronda loop - possibly one of the most spectacular rides you'll ever experience,
with four mountain passes and grades of nearly seven percent Challenge yourself on Passo Pordoi, often included in the Giro d’Italia and famous (or infamous!) for its 30 hairpin turns.
Day 4 Hidden valleys and storybook villages framed by magnificent limestone peaks
Our local friend shares insight into the 2,000-year-old Ladin language and culture Take on Passo Valparola and Passo Falzarego before descending into Cortina d’Ampezzo, a sophisticated - and distinctly Italian - ski village Feeling unstoppable? Opt for legendary Passo Giau, serving up an average grade of nine percent over six miles! 
Dinner at Michelin-starred Tivoli rewards you for your cycling accomplishments.
Days 5-6 Conquer 14 alpine passes in six days
if you're ambitious Pedal through woodland up to Passo Tre Croci and then down to pristine Lago di Misurina Gather at a rifugio for superb views of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, then spin through the magnificent Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park Ride from Cortina into the Zoldo Valley for a grand finale.
Trip Highlights
- A captivating mix of Italian, Austrian and Ladin cultures
- Michelin-starred dinners at La Stüa de Michil and Tivoli
- The Sella Ronda loop - possibly one of the most spectacular rides you’ll ever experience
- Hidden valleys and storybook villages framed by magnificent limestone peaks
- Your chance to conquer 14 alpine passes in six days
Premiere Inns
Hotel Goldener Adler (1 night): Relax on the rooftop terrace of this stately 500-year-old hotel with views of the historic center of Bressanone.
Hotel La Perla (2 nights): A welcoming family-owned chalet offering superb views of the Dolomites, and showcasing a Michelin-starred restaurant and one of Italy’s best wine cellars. (pool, spa)
Hotel de la Poste (2 nights): Owned by the same family since 1835, this former mail coach inn occupies a superb location on Cortina’s bustling Corso Italia.
Daily Mileage Options & Cumulative Elevation Gain
Day 1
- Level 2 1 Route Option Available
- 26 miles
- 2250 feet elevation gain
Day 2
- Levels 3 to 5 3 Route Options Available
- 32, 44, 63 miles
- 5400 - 8320 feet elevation gain
Day 3
- Levels 2 to 5 4 Route Options Available
- 32, 52, 72, 90 miles
- 4730 - 12310 feet elevation gain
Day 4
- Levels 2 to 5 3 Route Options Available
- 24, 31, 42 miles
- 2560 - 5860 feet elevation gain
Day 5
- Levels 3 to 5 3 Route Options Available
- 35, 50, 68 miles
- 4180 - 6280 feet elevation gain
Day 6
- Levels 2 to 3 2 Route Options Available
- 22, 32 miles
- 1340 - 4660 foot elevation gain
Routes For All Abilities
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests
and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the
next-and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat from yours.
So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly
what and how much you want to do.| Activity Level | Average Time | Biking Average | Walking Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 2-3 hours | 10-20 mile | 2-5 miles |
| Level 2 | 2-4 hours | 21-30 miles | 5-7 miles |
| Level 3 | 3-5 hours | 31-40 miles | 7-9 miles |
| Level 4 | 4-6 hours | 41-55 miles | 9-11 miles |
| Level 5 | 5-7+ hours | 56-75+ miles | 11-13+ miles |
2012 Dates & Pricing*
CLASSIC TRIPS
- 7/1-6 Price: $4198 pp dbl. occ., (+ $1100 for sgl. occ.)
- 7/8-13 Price: $4198 pp dbl. occ., (+ $1100 for sgl. occ.)
- 9/3-8 Price: $3998 pp dbl. occ., (+ $1100 for sgl. occ.)
*Prices may change. Once you book your trip, your price is guaranteed.
Guest Trip Reviews
This is a perfect trip for avid cyclists who want to be challenged daily. If you're thrilled by the possibility of conquering 14 alpine passes in six days, we hope you'll join us! Of course this trip it not just about epic riding. You'll also be treated to awe-inspiring mountain scenery, Michelin-starred cuisine, and an in-depth look at the regional culture.- Regional Manager, Italy