Cycling in the Dolomites: Best Routes, Bike Paths, and Road Cycling Adventures in Italy’s Alps

Start your cycling journey in the Dolomites

Cycling in the Dolomites isn’t just about sport — it’s about freedom, discovery, and
that deep sense of awe that only the Alps can give. These mountains, carved by time
and shaped by weather, are among the most scenic and exhilarating places in the
world for road cycling and mountain biking. Here, every climb rewards you with
sweeping views, and every descent brings you through forests, meadows, and
villages where life still moves with mountain rhythm.
What makes a cycling holiday in the Dolomites so unforgettable is the variety of
experiences. You can follow quiet cycle paths through gentle valleys or challenge
yourself with legendary climbs like the Passo Pordoi. Smooth road cycling routes,
gravel trails, and forest tracks for mountain bikes coexist in a network of possibilities
— all surrounded by the dramatic mountain range that defines the heart of the
Dolomites.

Who is cycling in the Dolomites for?

One of the most beautiful things about cycling in Italy’s Alps is that it truly welcomes
everyone. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist chasing altitude, a couple looking for
scenic rides, or a family hoping to explore the landscape at a gentler pace, there’s a
path that fits your style.
In Val Pusteria (Pustertal), flat trails wind through green fields and along rivers —
ideal for easy rides with e-bikes or kids’ bikes. In contrast, the classic Dolomites
routes around Val Gardena, Alta Badia, and Cortina offer more technical riding with
world-famous climbs and thrilling descents. The cycle paths here invite you to go
slow, take in the views, and feel the connection between breath, nature, and
motion with your road bike.
Pedaling in the Dolomites isn’t only good for the body — it’s nourishment for the
mind. It’s a chance to disconnect, to reconnect, and to let the ride become part of
the journey inward. For us, helping others discover this balance is one of the
greatest rewards of our work.

How to explore the Dolomites on two wheels: from planning to pedaling

Choose the right cycling route

Before you start your cycling holiday in the Dolomites, it’s helpful to understand the
terrain. Road cycling here is all about passes, panoramas, and precision — think the
Sellaronda, the Falzarego, or the legendary Giro d’Italia climbs. These routes in the
Dolomites often cover 40–100+ km per day and include dramatic changes in altitude
— with some passes reaching over 2,200 meters.
For mountain bike lovers, the options range from forest single tracks to full-day
adventures like the Dolomiti Superbike route near Belluno. Gravel and e-bike riders
will find joy in the valleys of Fassa, Badia, and South Tyrol, where well-maintained
paths and charming alpine villages create a slower, more scenic experience.
We’ve helped many guests tailor their cycling days to their energy and experience
level — and it’s always a pleasure to suggest those less-known loops that offer great
scenery without the crowds.

What to pack for your Dolomites ride

Whether you're cycling 20 or 80 km, preparation makes the ride more enjoyable.
The weather in the Dolomites in Italy can shift quickly — sunny in the valley, cool
and breezy near the passes — so technical clothing is key. We always recommend
dressing in breathable layers, carrying a light wind jacket, and packing a small repair
kit.
A well-fitted helmet, sunglasses, gloves, and plenty of water go without saying. A
GPS or trail map is useful, especially if you're exploring new paths in the Dolomites
or heading off-road. For those curious about e-bikes, they can be a game-changer —
ideal for longer distances or for riders who want to enjoy the scenery without
overexertion. We often include them in our bike tours, especially when traveling in
groups with different fitness levels.

Where to stay: bike hotels and rifugi

After a good day on the saddle, rest is everything. In the Alto Adige and Trentino
regions, you’ll find plenty of bike-friendly hotels offering secure storage, bike
washing stations, and energy-boosting menus. These places welcome cyclists not as
tourists, but as part of the alpine rhythm — understanding what a cyclist needs after
1,500 meters of climbing.

And then there are the rifugi — mountain huts tucked high above the valleys, where
you can sleep closer to the stars. Spending a night here, after a challenging ride,
gives a deeper connection to the land. Waking up to the sunrise over the Alps is the
kind of thing you don’t forget.
We know which places combine comfort, good food, and unforgettable views — and
we love helping guests find the right balance between effort and relaxation.

Riding safely and respecting nature

The cycling routesin the Dolomites pass through pristine landscapes. That’s why we
encourage every ride to be not only enjoyable, but respectful. Always check weather
conditions before setting out, follow the trail signs, and avoid riding during storms
or heavy fog.
Respecting nature also means giving space to hikers, avoiding overcrowded routes
when possible, and leaving no trace. We believe every cycling trip should be
sustainable — in how we move, how we plan, and how we interact with the land.

Why cycling in the Dolomites is truly unforgettable

One of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world

From the winding climbs of Passo Gardena to the wild pastures of Val di Funes, the
Dolomites are not just a backdrop — they are the experience. Each route offers its
kind of magic: soft morning light filtering through the trees, quiet descents into
valleys where time slows, and those final pedal strokes to the summit that make you
feel completely alive.

Cycling through alpine culture and UNESCO heritage

Along the way, you pass Ladin villages like Corvara, Canazei, or Moena, where
wooden farmhouses and alpine chapels sit beneath dramatic cliffs. You’ll see
malghe — mountain dairies — where traditions are kept alive. Cycling here means
more than physical effort; it means immersion in a cultural landscape that has
shaped both people and place for centuries.

Events, legends, and the thrill of the climb

If you’ve ever dreamed of riding where the pros do, this is the place. The Maratona
dles Dolomites, the Dolomiti Superbike, the Giro d’Italia — all pass through here, carving their stories into the roads. Passes like Sella, Pordoi, and Falzarego are more
than just names — they are memories in the making.

Examples of the best cycling routes in the Dolomites

Sellaronda Bike Day

A 53 km loop around the Sella Group, closed to traffic during special events.
Continuous climbs and descents through Passo Gardena, Campolongo, Sella, and
Pordoi makes this a classic for well-trained cyclists.

Cortina to Tre Cime di Lavaredo

A demanding ride that leads to the famous ThreePeaks, ending at Rifugio Auronzo
with breathtaking views. Perfect for those who love challenges and iconic scenery.

Pustertal Valley Bike Path

An ideal cycle path for families or leisurely e-bike rides. From Brunico to San
Candido, you’ll pass through villages, meadows, and rivers — pure South Tyrol
charm.

Bolzano to Alpe di Siusi

A steady climb through vineyards and forest to one of the most scenic plateaus in
the Alps. End with local food and wellness in a rifugio above the valley.

Fassa Valley scenic ride

Peaceful roads through Moena, Vigo di Fassa, and beyond. Less known, but full of
quiet alpine beauty and authentic village life.

Plan your cycling holiday in the Dolomites with local experts

Organizing a cycling holiday or biking in the Dolomites can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t
have to be. We’ve helped many travelers turn a dream into a ride that feels
effortless. From planning routes and booking hotels to luggage transfers and gear
rental, we’re here to take care of the details so you can focus on the ride.
We believe in travel that moves with purpose — and we’re ready to help you experience these mountains in the way that suits you best.

There’s something about cycling in these mountains that’s hard to explain — maybe
it’s the light, the stillness, or the way each ride feels both grounding and freeing.

Whatever draws you here, the Dolomites will meet you with open roads, generous
peaks, and unforgettable moments.