From the Dolomites to the Stelvio Bike Day

Leaving Treviso, a scenic transfer has you saddling up in picturesque San Vito di Cadore. From here, a dedicated bike path leads to the mountain town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, where a quick Espresso on the Corso Italia will get you ready for the main challenge of the day, the Passo Falzarego. One last effort up to the Passo Valparola and you'll enjoy a spectacular downhill into La Villa for the last gentle uphill stretch into Corvara.

The mountain goats have the option of bypassing the Falzarego and taking on the 'easier' side of the Passo Giau before continuing to Arabba and climbing the Campolongo into Corvara.

Today is your day to experience “the most beautiful bike ride in the world”, the Sellaronda, the ride around the Sella Group mountains. Whatever direction you choose, clockwise or anticlockwise, you will cover many of the most recognized climbs in the area, including the Passo Gardena, Passo Sella, Passo Pordoi, and Passo Campolongo (this would be the anticlockwise direction, the "Classic" Sellaronda from Corvara).

There is also the option to combine the Sellaronda with the Passo Falzarego or the Passo Giau, whose challenging ascent is rewarded by some of the most breathtaking views to be had in the Dolomites.

The main challenge on this day comes early, with a climb out of Corvara up to the Passo Val Gardena. From here it's all downhill until meeting the Eisack River Valley, where the route flattens out and follows a bike path to Bolzano which is reached around the 40-mile mark.

Leaving Bolzano the route joins another riverside bike path, this time next to the river Adige, for a beautiful mostly flat run all the way to Merano. Round out the day with a visit to Merano's renowned thermal baths, or drop by the Forst Brewery for a cool one.

This special free-from-cars day starts with a nice warm-up along the Adige River Valley to Prato dello Stelvio, where a small bike festival in the main square will put you in the right mood for the challenge ahead.

From Prato allo Stelvio you will join the procession of two-wheeled enthusiasts as you tackle the infamous switchbacks that lead to the Stelvio summit.

Congratulations, you have conquered one of THE iconic ascents of the cycling world! Take a moment to soak it all in before enjoying the equally spectacular descent into Bormio.

For your final day, it’s up to you how challenging you want to make it.

For some inviting switchbacks and great views, there is the loop out to Laghi di Cancano. A more challenging option is to take on the Gavia Pass from its easier side via Madonna di Campiglio.

The Queen Stage loop is nothing short of monumental, taking on first the relentless Passo del Mortirolo before following up with the grand finale, the Passo Gavia from the classic side out of Ponte di Legno.

Back in Bormio, enjoy one last evening of guilt-free culinary pleasures in this quaint, cycling crazy town.

After breakfast, a transfer takes you back to Treviso or Venice for your trip home or further exploration in the area. What does your bucket list look like today?