8-Day Classic Dolomites Cycling Tour

8-Day Classic Dolomites Cycling Tour Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Cortina d'Ampezzo

Arrive in the stunning Cortina d'Ampezzo, one of the most famous ski resorts in the Italian Alps, set to host its second Winter Olympics in 2026. While renowned for its winter sports, Cortina transforms into an outdoor paradise in summer, surrounded by majestic mountains, lush forests, and charming piazzas.

After checking in, meet our staff at the hotel for a tour briefing and bike fitting in the early afternoon. Then, take some time to explore the town, stroll past its historic stone church, or unwind at a cozy café. In the evening, enjoy one of our recommended local restaurants before your cycling adventure begins!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo
Distance: N/A
Meals: N/A

Day 2 Cycling to Dobbiaco and San Candido in the Val Pusteria

Bid farewell to the “Queen of the Dolomites” as you set off on a scenic ride along a gently graded rails-to-trails bike path. Cycle through lush forests, past serene mountain lakes, and up to the small Cimabanche Pass, where breathtaking alpine views await. From here, enjoy a smooth downhill descent toward one of the most iconic panoramas of the Dolomites, the stunning Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Continue riding into the heart of the Val Pusteria, arriving in the charming towns of Dobbiaco or San Candido, where you’ll settle in for the night.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Campitello di Fassa
Distance: 35km, 372m / 1,220ft elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 Loop ride along the Drau River

Enjoy a relaxing ride along the breathtaking Drau River bike path, one of Italy’s most scenic cycling routes. The Drau River, a tributary of the Danube, begins here, winding through stunning alpine landscapes as you pedal toward Austria. Follow the gentle, well-paved trail, with the option to ride as far as you like before looping back. Prefer a shorter ride? Hop on one of the bike-friendly local trains for an easy return to Dobbiaco or San Candido, making for a flexible and rewarding day of cycling.

Two options for today's ride to and back from Lienz:

Short option (cycle to Lienz and return on train to Dobbiaco) 43 km (27 miles), with + 145 m (475 ft) elevation gain.
Long option (cycling to Lienz and back to Dobbiaco): 87 km (54 miles), with + 830 m (2,722 ft) elevation gain.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Campitello di Fassa
Distance: Varies depending on the option selected
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 Cycling the Val Pusteria to Brunico

Cycle through one of the Dolomites’ most stunning valleys, leading you into the heart of Trentino-Alto Adige, a unique autonomous region of Italy. Follow a scenic, gentle bike path to Brunico (Bruneck), a charming town known for its historic city gates, Alpine architecture, and two impressive castles, making it well worth a visit.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Brunico
Distance: 50km, 575m / 1,886ft elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 Cycling Brunico to Bressanone

Today’s ride takes you west, then south along the legendary Brenner Pass bike path, a historic trading route through the Eisack Valley. As you cycle, take a break at the 12th-century Novacella Monastery, the largest in Tyrol, where you can stroll through its vineyards and even sample local wines. Continue your ride into Bressanone (Brixen), the oldest town in the province, where medieval streets, charming piazzas, and centuries-old architecture make for a perfect afternoon of exploration.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Bressanone
Distance: 46km, 576m / 1,890ft elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 Cycling Bressanone to Bolzano

Pedal south through the Eisack Valley, where the landscape shifts from chestnut forests to rolling vineyards. Stop in Chiusa, a charming medieval town, before continuing past the dramatic Castel Forte (Trostburg Castle), perched high above the valley. As you arrive in Bolzano, the capital of South Tyrol, soak in the lively piazzas, bustling markets, and rich blend of Italian and Austrian cultures. Don’t miss a visit to the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, home to Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,300-year-old Neolithic mummy that offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s ancient past.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Bolzano
Distance: 43km, 236m / 774ft elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 Cycling loop into the Caldaro wine region

Cycle through the stunning Caldaro wine region, where rolling vineyards and charming wineries invite you to relax and enjoy a tasting. Prefer a day off the bike? Stroll through Bolzano’s lively streets, visit its museums, or take a train into the Venosta Valley to explore historic towns. For a more leisurely adventure, hop in a taxi to Caldaro’s vineyards and soak in the breathtaking scenery—let us know if you’d like recommendations!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Bolzano
Distance: 38km, 445m / 1,460ft elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 Departure

Enjoy a final breakfast in Bolzano, savoring the last moments of your Dolomites cycling adventure.
Overnight Location: N/A
Distance: N/A
Meals: Breakfast