Backroads To Venice - Guided Cycle

Day 1: Arrive Bolzano

The trip begins in the Medieval German speaking city of Bolzano, the gateway to the Alps in the heart of the dramatic Dolomites. There will be a short orientation tour with the guide before dinner with the group.

Day 2: Cycle to Trento (Trient) along the Adige (70km)

The cycle route follows the Àdige Valley bike path, partly through orchards to Salurn, where the German speaking South Tyrol comes to an end. The dam pathways lead to Trento which has an interesting old town. In the afternoon there will be a short tour of the old town with the guide.

Day 3: To Lake Garda South (50km) + Boat

The route this morning continues along the Àdige through Roverto to Mori. From here it heads westward in the direction of the Lago di Garda. After a short ascent a descent follows and leads you via the lake to Torbole and to Riva. Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy, formed by glaciers. The scenery is stunning, due to its location at the foothills of the Dolomites and the vastness and blue colouring of the lake itself. The shoreline is dotted with villages and towns where the Germanic influence is evident. The provinces of Verona (southeast), Brescia (south west) and Trentino (north) intersect at the lake and its shoreline. From the north of the lake you board a boat which takes you the whole length to Sirmione/Desenzano for your overnight accommodation.

Day 4: Cycle to historical Verona, city tour (50km)

Today’s cycle follows a generally flat route with some easy hills through vineyards to the fabulous city of Verona, setting for Shakespeare’s “Romeo & Juliet”. An early start will ensure that we have time for a sightseeing tour to explore the old town, including Juliet’s Balcony, the main piazza, the roman amphitheatre and the main piazza.

Day 5: Cycle to Vicenza via Monti Berici (70km)

We first take a train to San Bonifacio from where we commence our cycle. Our route takes us through the hills of “Monti Berici”, the beautiful region above Vicenza, where you get a panoramic view of the city. Descend to Vicenza. In the old part of town one can still feel the ghost of Palladio, the famous architect from the Middle Ages.

Day 6: Cycle past Venetian villas to Abano Terme (35km)

Numerous Venetian villas are located at the exit of Vicenza, including the Villa Rotonda, which we will pass as we begin our cycle. Along the Bacchiglione the route leads to Abano Terme/Montegrotto, one of Italy's famous spas. Today’s short cycle allows enough time to enjoy the thermal springs and perhaps take a side trip to Padua, the city of Saint Antonius and scholars (can also be easily reached by bus).

Day 7: Cycle to Marghera/Mestre (50km)

Usually supported by tailwinds the cycle meanders through the Veneto in the direction of the sea. Fields and meadows set the tone of the landscape. The destination today is located in or near to Marghera/Mestre on the mainland before Venice with good bus connections to the lagoon city. From here we head into Venice for a tour of the city and dinner.

Day 8: Venice city tour, trip concludes

Arrangements conclude after breakfast. Extra nights can be organised on the mainland in Mestre/Marghera.