Backroads to Venice

The trip begins in Bolzano, gateway to the Alps in the heart of the dramatic Dolomites. Located along the Isarco river, bilingual Bolzano stands at the crossroads between the Mediterranean and central Europe. Today it is an important commercial and tourist centre. Depending on the time you arrive we recommend taking a stroll around the Piazza Walther where the life of the city is found. Additional nights before the trip can be added on request, please ask for our rates.

This morning there will be a meeting at the bike centre with a local representative who will deliver your bikes and answer any questions. You will start riding along the River Adige cycle path, through orchards and the vineyards of the renowned Wine Route. You can choose to ride a hilly variant which takes you to the beautiful Lake Kaltern, or follow the entire bike path (65km) along the Adige River, which is flat. Half way between Bolzano and Trento you will reach Salorno, which represents the linguistic border between the German and the Italian world. It is possible to shorten the stage by taking the train in several train stations along the way. Elevation +410m/1345ft, -475m/1558ft or along the bike path: +295m/967ft, -365m/1987ft

Continue cycling alongside the Adige to Rovereto, famous for its museum of modern and contemporary art. After a short ascent to Passo di San Giovanni, enjoy a superb view over Lake Garda and the little town of Torbole. Continue to Riva del Garda, from where you will take a ferry* (approx 4-5 hours) to reach the southern part of the lake. Overnight in Peschiera or Desenzano del Garda, dependent on availability. *if the ferry is cancelled or not operating eg at the end of the season you will travel by alternative means, usually by bus. Elevation +300m/984ft, -430m/1410ft

After crossing the hilly landscape surrounding Lake Garda you will meet the Adige river again which will take you into bustling Verona, one of the most important and beautiful cities in the Veneto region and the setting for Shakespeare’s “Romeo & Juliet”. An early start will ensure you'll have time to explore its many sights including the Roman Arena, the Church of San Zeno and Juliet’s House. You can take a short walk or cycle across the river and up the hill for a great view of the city. With no shortage of attractions, gelato and fine food in Verona, the night time café scene is worth staying up for. Elevation from Peschiera +255m/836ft, -260m/853ft or from Desenzano +-490m/1608ft

Cycling in the countryside at the foot of the Lessini mountains and among the vineyards you will reach the castle of Soave. Continuing, there are two options today from Montebello. The flatter path brings you close to the beautiful castles of Romeo and Juliet in Montecchio Maggiore, while the hilly route leads you through the Berici hills. Vicenza lies ahead. Vicenza's old centre is characterized by beautiful private and public buildings by Andrea Palladio, the famous 16th century architect. Elevation +-460m/1510ft or via the Berici Hills +-700m/2297ft It is possible to shorten this stage by taking the train in San Bonifacio (just after Soave - 35km/21.5mi).

Cycling out of Vicenza along the cycle path of the Bacchiglione river you can admire the Palladian masterpiece Villa La Rotonda. Continuing past the hamlet of Montegalda, you will head towards the Euganean Hills, where you will have the chance to relax in the largest European thermal district. With a small detour of about 10km at the end of the stage, you can enjoy a wine and oil tasting (included). Elevation +220m/721ft, -260m/853ft

From the thermal district you follow the cycle path of the Battaglia canal to the fascinating city of Padova, home to one of the oldest Italian (and European) universities and rich in art and history. Here you’ll find the famous Scrovegni Chapel, with frescoes by Giotto, and one of the largest squares in Europe, 'Prato della Valle'. It's an easy day through the flat Veneto. From Padova, continue along the Piovego Canal to Stra then follow the Brenta Canal, overlooked by the countryside villas of Venetian nobility (Villa Pisani, Villa Malcontenta, Villa Widmann), until you reach Mestre on Venice's mainland. Elevation +195m/640ft, -200m/656ft

Arrangements conclude after breakfast. Extra nights can be arranged on request, in Mestre and on request on Venice island.