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. With your big effort come big rewards: delicious, hearty cuisine and premier local wines, welcoming hotels, and plenty of hiking ops if you're keen for a change of pace.
Days 1-2 A captivating mix of Italian, Austrian and Ladin cultures
Ready to dive into the mountains? Our vigorous warm-up ride to Soprabolzano offers a taste of what's to come Tackle a 12-mile ascent in the electric-green Val di Funes, beneath the looming 8,000-foot cliffs of the Odle mountains Savor regional vintages at an exclusive wine tasting.
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
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!
Days 5-6 Conquer another world-class alpine ascent
if you're ambitious Pedal through woodland up to Passo Tre Croci and then down to pristine Lago di Misurina Take in the superb views of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, then spin through the magnificent Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park Ride from Cortina to Alleghe for a grand finale.
Trip Highlights
- A captivating mix of Italian, Austrian and Ladin cultures
- 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
Casual 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 Col Alto (2 nights): A family-run hotel ideally situated at the foot of ski slopes in the center of town and offering wonderful views of the Dolomites. (pool, spa)
Hotel Menardi (2 nights): Established by the Menardi family in 1836, this historic inn is set within a short scenic walk to the center of Cortina. (spa)
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.
| Daily Route Options | ||||||||||
| Day | EASYGOING | ACTIVE | AVID | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Level 4 | Level 5 | ||||||
| miles | feet gain | miles | feet gain | miles | feet gain | miles | feet gain | miles | feet gain | |
| 1 | 30 | 1400 | ||||||||
| 2 | 29* | 5100 | 38* | 6200 | 48 | 7100 | 68 | 9200 | ||
| 3 | 21* | 4100 | 32 | 4900 | 53* | 7800 | 74 | 9300 | ||
| 4 | 23 | 2600 | 31* | 6000 | 42 | 6200 | ||||
| 5 | 25 | 2500 | 31* | 4000 | 50* | 5400 | 68 | 6300 | ||
| Optional Hiking from 3.5 to 6.1 miles | ||||||||||
| 6 | 12* | 100 | 22* | 3300 | ||||||
There is less than 5% of riding on hard-packed dirt on this trip. Since the overwhelming majority of the trip is paved, we've elected to use standard road bike tires on our titanium road bikes. Most guests find this to be the right answer. If you prefer to skip the dirt, a shuttle is always a possibility.
* Includes a shuttle
2013 Dates & Pricing*
CLASSIC TRIPS
- 7/7-12 Price: $3298 pp dbl. occ., (+ $650 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 and an in-depth look at the regional culture.- Regional Manager, Italy