Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.

Dolomites Grand Loop E-Bike Tour

This unforgettable cycling journey takes you through the heart of the Dolomites and into the diverse landscapes of northern Italy, blending Alpine beauty with Mediterranean charm.

Starting in the picturesque Hochpustertal valley, you’ll follow scenic cycle paths and quiet roads past rivers, castles, vineyards, and historic towns. Each day offers a fresh adventure—from the cultural gems of Brixen and Bolzano to the Renaissance elegance of Trento and the Roman roots of Feltre.

As you wind through valleys and over mountain passes, you’ll experience dramatic shifts in scenery and language, moving from German-speaking South Tyrol into Italian-speaking Trentino.

The ride leads you past sparkling lakes, through forested valleys, and along historic rail trails, with highlights like Lake Caldonazzo, Cortina d’Ampezzo, and the awe-inspiring Three Peaks (Tre Cime di Lavaredo).

With daily rides averaging 60–75 km (37- 46mi), this tour is ideal for moderately experienced cyclists looking for a rewarding challenge paired with cultural depth and natural splendor. While it is designed as an e-bike tour, you can also opt for a hybrid bike if you don't mind the longer distances.

You’ll explore charming villages, enjoy delicious regional cuisine, and unwind in comfortable accommodations each night. Whether it’s your first cycling tour or your tenth, the Dolomites will capture your heart and leave you longing to return.

Tour Type

Self-guided

Lodging

casual hotels

Start

Toblach

Finish

Toblach

Level

moderate to challenging

Avg. Daily Distance

63 km / 39 mi

Cycling Days

6

Group size

Min. 2, Max. 10

Fly-In

Marco Polo Airport Venice (VCE)

Fly-Out

Marco Polo Airport Venice (VCE)

Highlights

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Explore The Majestic Dolomites

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dolomites boast unique geology and stunning beauty. This tour traces their foothills, keeping the dramatic peaks constantly in view

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Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cycle through Cortina, the chic Alpine town framed by the Dolomites. Once a Winter Olympics host, it offers crisp air, dramatic peaks, and breathtaking views at every turn

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Tre Cime di Lavaredo

The iconic Three Peaks of the Dolomites rise as limestone giants, offering breathtaking panoramas and unforgettable photo opportunities as you cycle nearby

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Historic Tyrolean Cities

Discover Brixen, Bolzano, and Trento—historic Tyrolean cities where Italian charm meets Alpine tradition, with Renaissance architecture, cobbled streets, and lively cafés perfect for a mid-ride espresso

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.

Detailed Itinerary

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Day 1: Toblach

Welcome to the Dolomites! Your tour begins in the charming little village of Toblach, accessible from Venice by the Cortina Express.

After arriving in Toblach from Venice, take some time to settle in and explore your charming surroundings. Whether you are stretching your legs after travel or grabbing a gelato in town, the fresh mountain air and Alpine vibes will get you excited for the journey ahead. You will find all the accessories you need including route maps at your hotel. The bikes will be droped off at your hotel. If you want, you can also drop by at our bike shop and say hello. Directions to reach our local bike shop will be included in the documentation you receive at your hotel.

Meanwhile, you can enjoy your arrival in the Dolomites with a hearty Tyrolean dinner. Tomorrow, the adventure truly begins—so rest up and dream of riverside paths and castle ruins.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Laurin (4-Star)
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Day 2: Pieve di Cadore

You begin your ride in the enchanting Pustertal Valley, immediately immersed in the dramatic beauty of the Dolomites. To your left rises the iconic Three Peaks Nature Park, while to your right stretches the untouched wilderness of the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park. Following the scenic path of the former Dolomites railway, the route unfolds with sweeping mountain panoramas and unforgettable views of the legendary Three Peaks. Soon, you cross the border from South Tyrol into Veneto, where the glamorous alpine town of Cortina d’Ampezzo awaits. Known for hosting the Winter Olympics, Cortina is framed by some of the most celebrated peaks in the Dolomites.

After a pause to soak in its charm, you continue deeper into the alpine landscape, cycling through forested stretches, old railway tunnels, and breathtaking valleys. The day’s journey ends in Pieve di Cadore, a picturesque town that reflects both the history and beauty of this mountain world.

Road Surface: Mostly asphalted, cycle paths and low-traffic side roads

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 65 km / 40 mi
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Day 3: Feltre

As you leave Pieve di Cadore, the route immediately draws you into the heart of the Dolomites’ alpine beauty. Riding south along a dedicated cycle path, you will be surrounded by towering peaks, lush valleys, and the crisp mountain air that defines this region. Along the way, you pass through Longarone, a town with a tragic yet powerful history. Completely rebuilt after the devastating Vajont disaster of 1963—when a landslide from Monte Toc sent waves of water crashing through the valley—Longarone today stands as a symbol of resilience. From here, the journey carries you toward Belluno, a peaceful town nestled between mountains and rivers, offering a quiet moment to pause and reflect.

Continuing through dense forests and charming villages, you eventually arrive in Feltre. With its cobbled streets, Renaissance architecture, and commanding views, Feltre exudes historic charm, while the Dolomites remain a dramatic backdrop to your cycling adventure.

Road Surface: Almost completely asphalted, only short sections on gravel

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 75 km / 47 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Doriguzzi
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Day 4: Trento

Departing from Feltre, a charming town along the historic “Via Claudia Augusta,” your ride follows in the footsteps of an ancient Roman road that once linked the fertile Po Valley with Bavaria across the Alps. The route carries you through rolling hills, fertile valleys, and sweeping mountain views, offering a blend of history and natural beauty at every turn. As you pedal further south, you arrive at Lake Caldonazzo, the largest natural lake in Trentino. Its calm, crystalline waters invite you to pause and soak in the serene alpine setting, a refreshing highlight along the journey.

For those wishing to shorten the stage, there is an option to take the train for part of the route (ticket not included). Continuing onward, you reach Trento, a vibrant city where history and culture meet, and where the impressive Buonconsiglio Castle proudly overlooks the elegant Renaissance heart of the town.

Alternate option: 70 km + 25 km by train

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 65 km / 40 mi
Accommodation: NH Trento (4-star)
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Day 5: Bolzano

Your journey today begins in Trento, where you bid farewell to the lively historic center and the imposing Buonconsiglio Castle, a reminder of the city’s rich past. Soon you join the well-marked cycle path that runs alongside the Adige River, a route embraced by gentle valley landscapes. As you ride, endless rows of vineyards and orchards line your way, their seasonal colors painting the scenery with vibrant charm. The route leads you naturally toward the Salorno Gorge, a dramatic passage through which the river flows, and also a symbolic border: here, Italian gradually gives way to German, marking the cultural shift from Trentino to South Tyrol.

From this point, the ride continues smoothly north, still following the river, as the valley widens again. Before long, you reach Bolzano, South Tyrol’s bustling cultural and commercial capital, where Italian and Tyrolean traditions blend seamlessly and your stage concludes.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 65 km / 40 mi
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Day 6: Brixen

Your day begins in Bolzano, a city where Tyrolean traditions and Mediterranean flair meet in perfect harmony. Take some time to wander its arcaded streets, pause for a coffee on lively Waltherplatz, or visit the fascinating South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, home to Ötzi the Iceman. Leaving the bustle behind, you follow the scenic cycle path along the Isarco River, the route winding gently through the valley. Along the way, history rises from the hillsides with sights like Trostburg Castle, once a powerful medieval stronghold, and the striking Säben Monastery, perched high above the river.

The scenery shifts as you ride, alternating between sunlit vineyards and alpine landscapes, each bend revealing a fresh perspective of the valley’s beauty. Your destination is Bressanone, South Tyrol’s oldest town. Before settling in, stroll through its charming historic center, admire the elegant cathedral, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this timeless town.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 45 km / 28 mi
Accommodation: Grüner Baum (4-Star)
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Day 7: Toblach

Leaving Bressanone, you follow the cycle path north along the Isarco River, surrounded by the serene beauty of alpine landscapes. Soon, the imposing Franzensfeste Fortress comes into view, a monumental structure built in the 19th century to guard this strategic passage. Not far from here, you can pause at Neustift Abbey, a remarkable monastic complex with centuries of history, vineyards, and tranquil cloisters. A little further along the route, the atmospheric ruins of the Chiusa di Rio Pusteria stand as a reminder of the valley’s medieval defenses.

From here, the scenery begins to shift as you enter the verdant Puster Valley, where the gentle flow of the Rienza River guides your way. The ride is peaceful, with alpine views unfolding at every turn. Before the day’s journey ends, a short stop in Brunico is highly recommended—its lively pedestrian center offers cafés, shops, and a welcoming alpine charm.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 65 km / 40 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Laurin (4-Star)

Day 8: Departure

All good things must come to an end—or do they? If you're not quite ready to say goodbye to the Dolomites, why not extend your stay and explore more of this magical region? You can consider combining this trip with our Self-guided Dolomites to Venice bike tour.

Otherwise, it's time to head home with a heart full of memories and legs full of stories.

Whether you rode for the views, the food, or the fun, you’ve just completed an unforgettable journey through one of Europe’s most spectacular cycling regions. Bravo!

Meals: Breakfast

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 $320

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

We recommend to book direclty from airport.

Airport drop

We recommend to book direclty your last 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.

Bike Image

TOP UNISEX Bike or similar

hybrid

Included in your trip price

Bike Image

KTM MACINA FUN 510 or similar

ebike

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 best time to cycle across the Dolomites is between May and September, when the weather is most favorable and the mountain scenery is at its finest.

January to April is the off-season, with snow-covered passes, freezing temperatures, and limited accessibility for cyclists. May marks the beginning of the cycling season, offering milder temperatures and blooming landscapes, although some high-altitude routes may still have snow.

June and July are the peak months, featuring warm days, clear skies, and ideal conditions for long rides through alpine terrain. August and September also provide excellent cycling weather—August tends to be warmer and busier with tourists, while September brings cooler air and stunning early autumn colors.

From October to December, the region enters another off-season period, with unpredictable weather, falling temperatures, and the first snowfalls returning to the mountains. For the most enjoyable and safe experience, plan your cycling tour during the late spring to early autumn window.

January

Offseason

February

Offseason

March

Offseason

April

Offseason

May

Good

June

Best

July

Best

August

Good

September

Good

October

Offseason

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:

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.

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