Your Next Adventure
Your Next Adventure
Dolomites to Venice Bike Tour
DURATION
10 Day(s)
DAILY BIKING
20 to 52 Miles
TRIP DIFFICULTY
2-Easier to Intermediate
REVIEWS
STARTING FROM
$4795
SINGLES ADD FROM
$1,500
Trip Overview
Gentle bike paths lead you on a bike tour through the spectacular Dolomites on the border of Italy and Austria then down past lovely terraced vineyards, and through classic medieval towns and villages before reaching our ultimate destination, Venice and the Adriatic Sea.
Your route takes you along mountain valleys, past a myriad of castles, beautiful villas, ancient villages, and handsome vineyards. In the process, you gradually lose over 4,200 feet in elevation.
Starting from your hotel in San Candido, you take a beautiful ride down through the Austrian border to visit the handsome town of Lienz. You spend two nights in Cortina, the site of the 1956 Winter Olympics, and then visit Belluno, Valdobbiadene (where you have a chance to taste the best Prosecco in the world) and Villa di Maser, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a night in beautiful Treviso, you transfer to Venice where a vaporetto takes you along the Grand Canal to the Rialto Bridge and the start of a spectacular tour of what has to be one of the most fascinating and beautiful cities in the world.
Add to all this wonderful adventure the legendary hospitality and unsurpassed cuisine of northern Italy and you have a perfect experience indeed.
Surfaces for this tour: 92% Paved and 8% Gravel.
Itinerary
From start to finish, check out the route.
DAY 1 - Arrival Day
Distance: 6 miles | Terrain: Easier | Hotel Villa Stefania
We will meet you at the train station in Bolzano (easily accessible from Milan or Venice) at 2 pm and bring you from there to your hotel in San Candido, a lovely resort town on the Drava River. After introductions and bike fitting, we will take a short warm-up ride before enjoying a meal that features wonderful local cuisine (including some of the best pastries in Europe). Dinner is together at a local restaurant (included).
We will meet you at the train station in Bolzano (easily accessible from Milan or Venice) at 2 pm and bring you from there to your hotel in San Candido, a lovely resort town on the Drava River. After introductions and bike fitting, we will take a short warm-up ride before enjoying a meal that features wonderful local cuisine (including some of the best pastries in Europe). Dinner is together at a local restaurant (included).
DAY 2 - Explore “the Pearl of the Dolomites”
Distance: Distance: 27 miles | Terrain: Easier | Hotel Villa Stefania
The entire day is gently down hill following the course of the Drau River from San Candido, then crossing into Austria to the beautiful town of Lienz (and losing 1870 feet in elevation in the process). You will enjoy exploring Lienz, “the Pearl of the Dolomites” a town that is beautifully situated at the confluence of the rivers Isel and Drava. There are many nice shops, the interesting 13th-century Bruck Castle and museum, and a beautiful main square where you can relax savoring an afternoon espresso. At the end of your day you have the option of riding back along the path to San Candido, or we will transport your bikes and you can enjoy the local train ride back to your hotel. Dinner is together at a local restaurant (included)
The entire day is gently down hill following the course of the Drau River from San Candido, then crossing into Austria to the beautiful town of Lienz (and losing 1870 feet in elevation in the process). You will enjoy exploring Lienz, “the Pearl of the Dolomites” a town that is beautifully situated at the confluence of the rivers Isel and Drava. There are many nice shops, the interesting 13th-century Bruck Castle and museum, and a beautiful main square where you can relax savoring an afternoon espresso. At the end of your day you have the option of riding back along the path to San Candido, or we will transport your bikes and you can enjoy the local train ride back to your hotel. Dinner is together at a local restaurant (included)
DAY 3 - Drava Bike Path and the Rienza River
Distance: 22 or 34 miles | Terrain: Easier to Intermediate | Hotel Ambra
We pass lovely Lake Dobbiaco in the Val di Landro, and enjoy the beautiful surrounding mountain panorama including a spectacular view of the famous “Tre cime di Lavaredo” (Three Peaks) in the Tre Cime mountains. From here we have one of the few climbs of the tour which is steady but gentle up to the Passo di Cimabanche, and then begin a long rambling descent with gorgeous views of the Sesto and Ampezzo Dolomite ranges. Following the route of an old former railway track, we bike through tunnels and over spectacular viaducts, while passing several abandoned railway stations. Our destination is the beautiful small town of Cortina d’Ampezzo the famous site of the 1956 Winter Olympics. Sitting high in a sunny meadow surrounded by incredibly beautiful mountain crags, Cortina can boast perhaps the best location in all of the Dolomites. The town is fun to explore with its many shops, museum and two cable cars that take you high into the hills. For those with greater energy we will offer you the option to ride up past Misurina Lake to Refugio Locatelli, a climb of over 3000 feet that rewards you with unparalleled views into remote mountains. Dinner is together at a local restaurant (included).
We pass lovely Lake Dobbiaco in the Val di Landro, and enjoy the beautiful surrounding mountain panorama including a spectacular view of the famous “Tre cime di Lavaredo” (Three Peaks) in the Tre Cime mountains. From here we have one of the few climbs of the tour which is steady but gentle up to the Passo di Cimabanche, and then begin a long rambling descent with gorgeous views of the Sesto and Ampezzo Dolomite ranges. Following the route of an old former railway track, we bike through tunnels and over spectacular viaducts, while passing several abandoned railway stations. Our destination is the beautiful small town of Cortina d’Ampezzo the famous site of the 1956 Winter Olympics. Sitting high in a sunny meadow surrounded by incredibly beautiful mountain crags, Cortina can boast perhaps the best location in all of the Dolomites. The town is fun to explore with its many shops, museum and two cable cars that take you high into the hills. For those with greater energy we will offer you the option to ride up past Misurina Lake to Refugio Locatelli, a climb of over 3000 feet that rewards you with unparalleled views into remote mountains. Dinner is together at a local restaurant (included).
DAY 4 - Exploration Day
Guided Hike | Hotel Ambra
We can picnic while experiencing rugged views into the eastern Dolomites. Many will want to make time to explore Cortina, either as your option for the day or as a fun experience after your hike. Dinner is on your own this evening.
We can picnic while experiencing rugged views into the eastern Dolomites. Many will want to make time to explore Cortina, either as your option for the day or as a fun experience after your hike. Dinner is on your own this evening.
DAY 5 - The Boite River
Distance: Distance: 52 miles | Terrain: Easier to Intermediate | Astor Belluno Suites Hotel
In San Vito di Cadore we have stunning views of the towering massif of Monte Antelao and Monte Pelmo and then, following the old railway path, we make our way through the picturesque towns such as Vodo, Venas, Valle, and Tai. In Pieve di Cadore, you will have the chance to visit the family home of renowned Renaissance artist Tiziano Vecellio, (Titian) before riding the Lunga via Delle Dolomiti bike path through several neighborhoods and then crossing the famous Ponte degli Alpini into the historic town center of Belluno. Belluno’s lovely narrow streets and many small shops offer great opportunities for exploring and you will want to be sure to wind your way to the handsome town square, the Piazza del Duomo. Dinner is together at a local restaurant (included).
In San Vito di Cadore we have stunning views of the towering massif of Monte Antelao and Monte Pelmo and then, following the old railway path, we make our way through the picturesque towns such as Vodo, Venas, Valle, and Tai. In Pieve di Cadore, you will have the chance to visit the family home of renowned Renaissance artist Tiziano Vecellio, (Titian) before riding the Lunga via Delle Dolomiti bike path through several neighborhoods and then crossing the famous Ponte degli Alpini into the historic town center of Belluno. Belluno’s lovely narrow streets and many small shops offer great opportunities for exploring and you will want to be sure to wind your way to the handsome town square, the Piazza del Duomo. Dinner is together at a local restaurant (included).
DAY 6 - Bellunesi Dolomite National Park
Distance: 39 miles | Terrain: Easier | Hotel Vecchio Municipio
We then ride into the area known as Valdobbiadene. Here we cycle along beautiful valleys and pass by castles and ancient churches. The most distinctive sights in this region, however, are the steep terraced hillsides laden with the vines of the Glera grape, from which they make the world’s best Prosecco wine. After settling in to your hotel we will indeed end the day with a wonderful Prosecco wine tasting and delicious dinner at a local farm house and winery.
Dinner together at a local restaurant (included)
We then ride into the area known as Valdobbiadene. Here we cycle along beautiful valleys and pass by castles and ancient churches. The most distinctive sights in this region, however, are the steep terraced hillsides laden with the vines of the Glera grape, from which they make the world’s best Prosecco wine. After settling in to your hotel we will indeed end the day with a wonderful Prosecco wine tasting and delicious dinner at a local farm house and winery.
Dinner together at a local restaurant (included)
DAY 7 - Asolo to Maser and Treviso
Distance: 37 miles | Terrain: Easier | Relais San Nicolo
Asolo is a magnificent Renaissance town with a classic historical center where we might enjoy a quiet cappuccino in the main square before making the short climb up to Monte Ricco, a medieval fortress that offers spectacular views of the old town and surrounding countryside.
Our biking next takes us to Maser where we can visit the beautiful Villa di Maser (also known as Villa Barbaro) considered one of the greatest masterpieces of the architect Andrea Palladio (1508-80), and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The villa is situated in the middle of a flourishing estate and historic winery. We then follow a lovely bike path that takes us along the Sile and Cagnan Rivers into beautiful Treviso. The two rivers wind their way through the center of this charming city. You will love walking unhurriedly along waterways and cobblestone streets, visiting the fishmarket or perhaps enjoying a glass of the local Spritz while sitting in a tavern overlooking the square at Piazza dei Signori. Dinner ia together at a local restaurant (included).
Asolo is a magnificent Renaissance town with a classic historical center where we might enjoy a quiet cappuccino in the main square before making the short climb up to Monte Ricco, a medieval fortress that offers spectacular views of the old town and surrounding countryside.
Our biking next takes us to Maser where we can visit the beautiful Villa di Maser (also known as Villa Barbaro) considered one of the greatest masterpieces of the architect Andrea Palladio (1508-80), and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The villa is situated in the middle of a flourishing estate and historic winery. We then follow a lovely bike path that takes us along the Sile and Cagnan Rivers into beautiful Treviso. The two rivers wind their way through the center of this charming city. You will love walking unhurriedly along waterways and cobblestone streets, visiting the fishmarket or perhaps enjoying a glass of the local Spritz while sitting in a tavern overlooking the square at Piazza dei Signori. Dinner ia together at a local restaurant (included).
DAY 8 - Explore Venice
Guided Tour of Venice | Treviso to Venice by Train | Ausonia Hungaria
Venice is rightfully famous for its canals, incredible architecture, and rich musical and artistic cultural heritage. No cars are allowed, so you can walk or, of course, take a classic ride in a Venetian gondola or vaporetto. There are plenty of world famous attractions to see, whether this is your first visit, or one of many, and our tour will take you by such well known attractions as the Piazza San Marco and its famous Basilica, the Rialto Bridge, the Doge’s Palace and Gallerie dell’Accademia. In addition, we will also treat you to an “insider’s tour” leading you along hidden alleyways and special out of the way places that many never see and which make a visit to Venice truly unique. You will also have ample time today and tomorrow to explore on your own, have a drink at an open café, wander past the waterfront palazzos, palaces, and churches … or engage in the high-end shopping in the fashion boutiques and jewelry shops located near the Rialto Bridge and in the Piazza San Marco. Finally, after your tour of Venice, we will take a short ferry ride on the Venetian Lagoon to Lido Island and our hotel. You are on your own for dinner tonight.
Venice is rightfully famous for its canals, incredible architecture, and rich musical and artistic cultural heritage. No cars are allowed, so you can walk or, of course, take a classic ride in a Venetian gondola or vaporetto. There are plenty of world famous attractions to see, whether this is your first visit, or one of many, and our tour will take you by such well known attractions as the Piazza San Marco and its famous Basilica, the Rialto Bridge, the Doge’s Palace and Gallerie dell’Accademia. In addition, we will also treat you to an “insider’s tour” leading you along hidden alleyways and special out of the way places that many never see and which make a visit to Venice truly unique. You will also have ample time today and tomorrow to explore on your own, have a drink at an open café, wander past the waterfront palazzos, palaces, and churches … or engage in the high-end shopping in the fashion boutiques and jewelry shops located near the Rialto Bridge and in the Piazza San Marco. Finally, after your tour of Venice, we will take a short ferry ride on the Venetian Lagoon to Lido Island and our hotel. You are on your own for dinner tonight.
DAY 9 - Islands of the Venetian Lagoon
Distance: 20 miles | Terrain: Easier | Ausonia Hungaria
Here we can immerse ourselves in the laid back atmosphere that is “old time Venice.” We will bike along the wide tree-lined roads and along the sea front towards Malamocco before taking a short ferry ride to Pellestrina where we visit fishing villages – like San Pietro in Volta, Portosecco and Pellestrina. This is a timeless area where you will often see the fishermens’ wives sitting outside their front doors, bent over while crocheting fishing nets and children kicking soccer balls along the cobbled streets. Later in the day those with extra energy might want to continue their exploration of Venice or perhaps take time to walk along the famous 30-foot-high sand dunes at Oasi Dune degli Alberoni before riding back to the hotel. Our farewell dinner is at a local restaurant (included).
Here we can immerse ourselves in the laid back atmosphere that is “old time Venice.” We will bike along the wide tree-lined roads and along the sea front towards Malamocco before taking a short ferry ride to Pellestrina where we visit fishing villages – like San Pietro in Volta, Portosecco and Pellestrina. This is a timeless area where you will often see the fishermens’ wives sitting outside their front doors, bent over while crocheting fishing nets and children kicking soccer balls along the cobbled streets. Later in the day those with extra energy might want to continue their exploration of Venice or perhaps take time to walk along the famous 30-foot-high sand dunes at Oasi Dune degli Alberoni before riding back to the hotel. Our farewell dinner is at a local restaurant (included).
DAY 10 - Departure Day
After a leisurely breakfast your tour guides will help you arrange transport to either train station (Santa Lucia or Mestre) or Marco Polo airport, so you can get to your next destination. Ciao!
Map
Dates & Pricing
Prices are per person based on double occupancy (2 people in one room). Single supplement for private room is listed at the top of this page. A deposit of $750 holds your reservation for most tours. For tours less than 6 days, the deposit is $500.
What’s Included
9 nights' lodging; 9 breakfasts; 7 dinners (you are on your own for one night in Cortina and one night in Venice); train from Lienz to San Candido and Treviso to Venice; Venitian multi pass in Venice; wine tasting in Valdobbiadene; guided hike in Cortina; guided tour of Venice; various side trips; all related entry fees; bicycle and helmet; experienced multi-lingual tour guides; full van support; detailed maps and directions. Airfare is not included.
Dates & Pricing
Prices are per person based on double occupancy (2 people in one room). Single supplement for private room is listed at the top of this page. A deposit of $750 holds your reservation for most tours. For tours less than 6 days, the deposit is $500.
What’s Included
9 nights' lodging; 9 breakfasts; 7 dinners (you are on your own for one night in Cortina and one night in Venice); train from Lienz to San Candido and Treviso to Venice; Venitian multi pass in Venice; wine tasting in Valdobbiadene; guided hike in Cortina; guided tour of Venice; various side trips; all related entry fees; bicycle and helmet; experienced multi-lingual tour guides; full van support; detailed maps and directions. Airfare is not included.
Inns
Where you stay along the way.
Hotel Villa Stefania
A relaxing holiday in the heart of the Dolomites
is what you can expect at the Hotel Villa Stefania in San Candido. Their family-run hotel offers a combination of traditional and modern comfort and is known for the warm hospitality of the entire staff. Plus, there are great views!
is what you can expect at the Hotel Villa Stefania in San Candido. Their family-run hotel offers a combination of traditional and modern comfort and is known for the warm hospitality of the entire staff. Plus, there are great views!
Hotel Ambra
Discover this stylish boutique hotel in Cortina d'Ampezzo. At the Hotel Ambra, you enjoy total relaxation and the many amenities that Hotel Ambra Cortina reserves for guests. And enjoy the surrounding landscape: the enchanting panorama of the Ampezzo Dolomites.
Astor Belluno Suites Hotel
The 4 star Astor Belluno – built on the foundation of the previous hotel - has a strategic location. It is in the historical downtown area of Belluno and has a unique view of the Piave valley on one side and Piazza de Martiri on the other. It offers 3 suites and 10 junior suites, a restaurant and bar and a well equipped meeting room.
The interior design offers furnishings that are sophisticated and elegant with relaxing and calming colours. Which creates an environment and atmosphere which is cozy, chic and comfortable thanks to the considerate design and careful use of materials and finishes. This is all complimented by the latest technology used in each and every part of the hotel.
The interior design offers furnishings that are sophisticated and elegant with relaxing and calming colours. Which creates an environment and atmosphere which is cozy, chic and comfortable thanks to the considerate design and careful use of materials and finishes. This is all complimented by the latest technology used in each and every part of the hotel.
Hotel Vecchio Municipio
Established on the 18th April 2003, the Hotel Vecchio Municipio enjoys a magnificent location on Valdobbiadene’s hills, in the village of San Pietro di Barbozza. With its 23 spacious bedrooms, the Vecchio Municipio hotel is the perfect place to spend time relaxing or visiting the wineries in the neighbourhood. Enjoy pleasant walks as you discover Valdobbiadene and the Treviso province, whilst stopping to sample the delicious culinary delights of the area accompanied by a wonderful glass of local Prosecco.
Relais San Nicolo
The Relais & Cafè San Nicolò is situated in a period residence housing Roman and medieval ruins, in the heart of the Treviso historical centre, opposite the monumental of the San Nicolò Temple, only 18 km from Venice.
The inspiration for this Treviso hotel - B&B is drawn from the experiences of a traveller who, after much wandering, has been able to fulfil his desire of evoking the feelings and emotions experienced throughout the word in others.
In fact, all of this hotel - B&B rooms, placed in the context of a centrally situated Venetian villa, have different themes aimed at recounting his experiences both as a hotelier and traveller. It's an exciting feeling being able to jump from one continent to another or from one era to another by simply crossing a corridor and opening the door of a room.
The inspiration for this Treviso hotel - B&B is drawn from the experiences of a traveller who, after much wandering, has been able to fulfil his desire of evoking the feelings and emotions experienced throughout the word in others.
In fact, all of this hotel - B&B rooms, placed in the context of a centrally situated Venetian villa, have different themes aimed at recounting his experiences both as a hotelier and traveller. It's an exciting feeling being able to jump from one continent to another or from one era to another by simply crossing a corridor and opening the door of a room.
Grande Albergo Ausonia & Hungaria
The new 5 star luxury hotel in the heart of Venice Lido. Expect the unexpected.
Guests say …
Quotes from guests about this tour:
"Organization was excellent, guides were terrific, the scenery can't be beat."
Sandra S.
"Favorite moments: Hot chocolate in Mel, swimming in the spa, talking with Miriam."
Len R.
"The vistas in the Dolomites were breathtaking every day. Venice was great, and the tour of Lido and Pellestrina was particularly unique."
Leonard G.
"There were many days I pedaled slowly because I just did not want the moments to end."
Gal and Ken H.
Gallery
Images from this tour. Click each to see it larger.
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