Conquering the glorious Dolomites
Italy’s most northerly region, South Tyrol boasts 300 days of sunshine a year and an incredible fusion of Mediterranean and Alpine cultures
outh Tyrol truly is a giant playground for cyclists. Home to the Dolomite Mountains, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009, the region’s stunning peaks and deep valleys make it a unique cycling destination.
Criss-crossed with a 4,600km network of cycle trails ranging from easy routes through beautiful orchards to more challenging options taking in the some of the region’s towering moutain passes, a tour of the Dolomites will be an unforgettable experience no matter what your level.
For those looking to combine their passion for cycling with a love of wine, South Tyrol’s Wine Road connects the superb vinescape to the south of Bolzano with the Lake of Caldaro with short detours to bathing lakes and plenty of wineries along the way offering their wares for tasting. The roads are quiet and with a choice of three different routes it’s a relaxing ride you can enjoy over multiple days.
For something more invigorating, head for the famous Sellaronda – the region-wide mountain merry-goround of fantastic roads, trails and panoramic views. If you’re feeling competitive, the Sellaronda Hero in June is a challenging 60km event taking in over 3,200m of climbing on roads, single trails and gravel tracks – or there’s an 86km route that climbs 4,500m if you’re feeling truly brave.
Then there’s the famous Maratona dles Dolomites on 2nd July 2017, which throws down the gauntlet with eight Dolomite passes and a total of 4,190m of climbing.
But cycling is not all about hard work. South Tyrol is blessed with excellent local wines and incredible local produce, and its restaurants hold a combined 23 Michelin Stars. Nothing beats breaking up a day in the saddle with leisurely lunches and delicious dinners in local towns and mountain refuges. The region is also famed for its unique spa culture – the perfect way to soothe tired muscles after a day in the saddle.
With its incredible landscape and climate, great food and wine and a huge network of cycling routes it’s easy to see why South Tyrol is a paradise for cyclists. For more, see www.suedtirol.info/summer.