Epic e-Bike Tour of the Dolomites

Embark on a captivating journey from Longarone to Cortina, traversing the scenic Long Dolomite Road. This route, celebrated as one of the most rewarding cycling paths in the Alpine region, winds through the stunning landscapes of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites.

Your first significant stop will be Pieve di Cadore, a well-known tourist hub and an ideal spot for a leisurely coffee break. This charming town offers numerous trailheads for hikes, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Dolomites.

As you continue, make sure to visit the picturesque Lake Mosigo. This hidden gem, surrounded by lush trees and set against the dramatic backdrop of the Dolomites, offers a moment of tranquillity and awe-inspiring views.

The journey leads you through the serene Boite Valley, following the meandering course of the Boite River, a tributary of the Piave. Your day concludes in the renowned town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, a place famous for its upscale charm and natural beauty. This first day of cycling promises an enchanting exploration of some of the most picturesque parts of the Dolomites.

The second day of your cycling adventure brings a loop around Cortina, immersing you in the heart of the Dolomites’ splendour. This route takes you to the enchanting Lago di Misurina and the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo, an essential highlight for any cycling enthusiast.

Your journey begins with an ascent to Passo Tre Croci, unfolding a route filled with breathtaking vistas. The climb to Passo Tre Croci is more than just a physical challenge; it’s an opportunity to witness the majestic beauty of the surrounding Dolomites. The panoramic views here are a testament to why these mountains are a cyclist’s paradise.

After conquering Passo Tre Croci, enjoy a swift descent leading to a turnoff towards Lago di Misurina. A stop at this stunning lake is a must for any cyclist. Here, take a moment to soak in the serene blue waters set against the backdrop of towering stone and snow-capped peaks—a perfect spot for memorable photos and a peaceful respite.

Continuing your ride, you’ll encounter the ascent towards the Tre Cime di Lavaredo viewpoint. This climb might be challenging, but the e-bike makes it a breeze, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without the strain. The view of Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the most famous peak in the Dolomites, is an awe-inspiring reward for your efforts.

The remainder of your journey back to Cortina consists predominantly of a long, enjoyable descent, allowing you to relish the natural beauty you’ve just explored.

On the third day of your journey, get ready for a ride that combines the thrill of legendary mountain passes with the serene beauty of the Dolomites. Today, you’ll tackle the famous Falzarego, Valparola, and Campolongo passes, each offering its own unique challenges and rewards.

Your adventure begins with a journey along perfectly paved roads, ideal for e-bikes. As you ascend these storied climbs, each over 2000 meters, you’re surrounded by the kind of breathtaking scenery that makes the Dolomites world-renowned. The first part of the stage is not just a physical challenge but a feast for the senses, with panoramic views that capture the essence of the high mountains.

A highly recommended detour takes you to the Valparola refuge. Here, you can indulge in one of the best Sachercakes you’ll ever taste, all while soaking in an unparalleled view that spans the entire Alta Val Badia. This spot is a haven for cyclists seeking a moment of rest and reflection amidst their journey.

After your break, a long descent awaits, taking you through an environment that is the epitome of the Dolomites. You’ll be riding amidst awe-inspiring cliffs and expanses of pristine white stones, each telling its own ancient geological story.

As you embark on the fifth day of your cycling adventure, prepare to leave behind the towering peaks of the Dolomites and descend into the charming heart of Val di Fassa. This journey brings you closer to the rich tapestry of village life, set against the backdrop of Italy’s most beautiful landscapes.

Your route for the day takes you along a scenic cycle path that gracefully skirts around enchanting villages, each marked by their unique and unmistakable bell towers. As you cycle through, you’ll be immersed in a world where green pastures and dense woods frame picturesque settlements like Fontanzazzo, Mazzin, and Sen Jan di Fassa. A highlight of this stretch is the splendid village center of Vigo, recently recognized as one of Italy’s most beautiful villages.

The path also leads you through lush larch and fir forests, emblematic of the region’s natural resilience. Here, you’ll witness firsthand the recovery of the environment following the devastating effects of Storm Vaia in 2018. Despite the challenges faced, these forests continue to play a vital role, enriching the mountain slopes and providing a sanctuary for diverse wildlife.

Day 6 of your cycling journey is both challenging and rewarding, as you take on the formidable ascent of Passo del Manghen. Stretching 55 kilometres, this stage elevates you to an impressive 2047 meters, offering a unique and almost solitary riding experience.

The route to Passo del Manghen is marked by a narrow and winding tarmac path, largely undisturbed by motor vehicles. This lack of traffic allows you to fully immerse yourself in the wild and untamed environment of the Dolomites. As you pedal upwards, the solitude of the journey allows for a deep connection with the surrounding nature.

Reaching the summit of Passo del Manghen is not just an accomplishment but also an opportunity for restoration. Take a moment at the top to catch your breath, soak in the panoramic views, and prepare for the exhilarating descent that awaits.

On Day 7, the final chapter of your cycling adventure, you’ll embark on the renowned ‘Brenta route.’ This path is widely recognized as one of the most beautiful and top cycle paths in Europe. Stretching for 54 kilometres, you’ll traverse the Valsugana cycle/pedestrian path, which hugs the meandering course of the river Brenta and borders the province of Vicenza.

As you cycle along this picturesque route, you’ll find that some stretches are shared with traffic. However, the presence of motor vehicles is minimal, allowing for a peaceful and undisturbed journey. The Brenta route provides an exceptional blend of natural beauty, tranquillity, and gently undulating terrain, making it a perfect conclusion to your week-long expedition.

Your destination, Bassano del Grappa, is a town rich in history and culture. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Monte Grappa, the town is famous for its iconic Ponte Vecchio, a covered bridge designed by the renowned architect Andrea Palladio in 1569. Despite being destroyed several times throughout history, including during World War II, the bridge has been meticulously rebuilt and stands as a symbol of resilience and the enduring spirit of the region.

As dawn breaks on the final day of your Italian cycling odyssey, it’s time to bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes and cherished memories you’ve gathered. Reflecting on the journey, from the majestic peaks of the Dolomites to the serene waters of the Brenta, each pedal stroke has woven a tapestry of experiences that will remain etched in your heart.

Arrivederci, and may the roads always welcome you with new adventures and unforgettable moments.