Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Dolomites Based in One Hotel Bike Tour
This cycling tour through the Dolomites offers gentle rides along well-built valley paths, including the renowned Drava/Drau cycle route, with highlights such as Lake Toblacher See, views of the Drei Zinnen, and picturesque alpine towns.
Each day begins from your hotel in Hochpustertal, with routes leading into side valleys like Sesto and Casies or along the former Dolomites railway from Cortina d’Ampezzo to Dobbiaco.
The program is flexible, allowing participants to choose route lengths, use train or minibus transfers, or even take a rest day. Ideal for families and leisure riders, the tour also provides more challenging options for experienced cyclists.
With the comfort of staying in the same hotel in Villabassa or Dobbiaco throughout the week, it combines convenience, natural beauty, and opportunities for both relaxation and adventure.
Self-guided
Casual+ hotels
Toblach
Toblach
moderate
41 km / 25 mi
5
Min. 2, Max. 12
Marco Polo Airport Venice (VCE)
Marco Polo Airport Venice (VCE)
Highlights
Gentle, scenic valley cycling
Enjoy daily rides along expertly maintained valley paths including the famed Drava/Drau cycle path that glide along the foot of the Dolomites without steep inclines.
Iconic mountain views
Marvel at breathtaking sights such as Lake Toblacher See and the iconic Drei Zinnen (Three Peaks) scenes that are guaranteed to linger in your memory.
Diverse day routes with cultural depth
Each day brings a unique ride: from the peaceful side valleys of Sexten (Sesto) and Gsies (Casies) to the dramatic stretch along the old Dolomites railway track between Cortina d’Ampezzo and Dobbiaco.
One-base convenience
You stay in the same comfortable hotel in Toblach in the Hochpustertal region for the entire week, simplifying logistics and enhancing relaxation.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | casual_plus Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Toblach | Hotel Laurin's (4-star) | B | ||
| DAY 2 | Toblach | Hotel Laurin's (4-star) | B | 30 km / 19 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Toblach | Hotel Laurin's (4-star) | B | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Toblach | Hotel Laurin's (4-star) | B | 50 km / 31 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Toblach | Hotel Laurin's (4-star) | B | 30 km / 19 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Toblach | Hotel Laurin's (4-star) | B | 55 km / 34 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Toblach
Arrive in Toblach (Dobbiaco), a charming alpine town set in the Hochpustertal, or Alta Pusteria Valley, where Italy’s South Tyrol meets Austria’s East Tyrol.
Surrounded by the jagged limestone peaks of the Dolomites, the valley opens into meadows, forests, and crystalline lakes that have drawn poets, composers, and mountaineers for centuries.
The scenery feels like a meeting point of cultures as much as landscapes: Italian and Austrian influences intertwine in the food, architecture, and language, with German and Italian spoken side by side. Wooden chalets decorated with flower boxes stand alongside grand Tyrolean churches, and menus offer both alpine dumplings and Mediterranean pasta.
This is your gateway to the Dolomites.
Check into your hotel and have a look around time. If you arrive in time, our bike shop is located a short walk away. Drop in and say hello!
Day 2: Toblach
The route begins in Dobbiaco/Villabassa, the highest point of the valley, and follows the meandering Rienz River through charming villages towards Brunico. Along the way, you can explore Castle Bruneck, home to the Messner Mountain Museum, or the open air museum in Dietenheim. For those seeking a longer ride, the trail continues into the Tauferer Ahrntal valley, leading to the impressive Castle Taufers. In the afternoon, a return transfer from Bruneck will take you back to your hotel.
Day 3: Toblach
The cycle route leads into the idyllic Fischleintal valley, where the towering peaks of the Dolomites rise above as constant companions. Passing through the picturesque Sextner Valley, the trail continues toward San Candido, renowned for its Romanesque dome. A refreshing stop at the source of the Drava River adds a pleasant pause before you cycle back to your hotel.
Day 4: Toblach
Starting from Dobbiaco or Villabassa, the route first takes you to San Candido before crossing the Italian Austrian border near Prato Drava. From there, a gentle ride leads you to Lienz, beautifully situated where the Isel and Drava rivers meet. Highlights include the charming historic center and the impressive Schloss Bruck castle. In the afternoon, a transfer brings you comfortably back to your hotel.
Day 5: Toblach
After a transfer to Cortina d’Ampezzo, the route follows the former railway line, complete with illuminated tunnels specially adapted for cyclists. From Cortina, you climb gradually to Cimabanche, the highest point of the tour, before descending past Lake Dürrensee with striking views of the Cristallo massif. Soon, the iconic Drei Zinnen (Three Peaks) come into view, adding to the unforgettable scenery. Continuing along the path, you pass Lake Toblachersee before arriving back at your hotel in Dobbiaco/Villabassa. For more experienced riders, the full round trip can be cycled without the morning shuttle, covering about 60 to 70 km.
Day 6: Toblach
This peaceful valley, dotted with traditional farms, is renowned for its quiet charm and serene atmosphere. In Monguelfo, you can explore the historic castle, or pause in Villabassa to enjoy a refreshing stop at the Kneipp facility.
Day 7: Departure
Your journey concludes with departure from Hochpustertal though you may wish to extend your stay and enjoy a little more of this beautiful region.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Single Supplement
From US $400
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $150
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup and drop
We recommend to book direclty from airport or hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.
TOP Unisex bike or similar
Included in your trip price
KTM Macina Fun A510 or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival and Departure
Your tour begins and ends in the village of Toblach, also known as Dobbiaco. The nearest international airport is the Venice International Airport. You can take the Cortina Express from the airport or the Mestre train station to arrive at Tobiach. Pre-booking is necessary, and you can book your seat by visiting the Cortina Express website.
The journey from Venice to Toblach takes 2 hours 45 minutes.
Weather
The most suitable seasons are late spring, summer, and early autumn (May to September). During this period, the weather is generally pleasant for cycling, with mild mornings, warm afternoons, and cooler evenings in the valleys. The late Spring (May–June): expect fresh greenery and blooming alpine flowers. Temperatures usually range between 12–20 °C (54–68 °F), with slightly cooler nights. Summer (July–August) is the warmest and most popular time, with average daytime temperatures of 18–25 °C (64–77 °F) in the valleys, though higher altitudes remain cooler. Occasional afternoon thunderstorms can occur. And early Autumn (September); Clear skies and crisp air make this an excellent time for cycling. Temperatures range from 10–18 °C (50–64 °F), and the golden autumn colors add to the scenic beauty.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Offseason
May
Offseason
June
Good
July
Best
August
Best
September
Best
October
Mixed
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
We provide an app-based navigation system that can also be used offline. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we will share the login details ahead of your trip. Since the app works offline, it helps conserve your phone's battery during use.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
We provide 24/7 emergency support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
Yes, we can provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Yes, panniers will be provided.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.
