Around the Valleys of South Tyrol Bike Tour
Cycle through the heart of South Tyrol on a journey that blends Alpine grandeur with Mediterranean charm. From the medieval lanes of Brixen to the vibrant piazzas of Bolzano and the spa promenades of Merano, each day reveals a new facet of this culturally rich region.
The route glides along riverside paths, through vineyards and orchards, past castles, abbeys, and villages where Italian and Tyrolean traditions meet. Gentle gradients and well-marked cycleways make the riding a pleasure, while detours to shimmering lakes and mountain valleys add a sense of discovery.
Along the way, you can savor local wines, sample South Tyrol’s famed apple orchards, and immerse yourself in landscapes shaped by both the Dolomites and the Alps. It’s a cycling holiday that balances effortless pedaling with unforgettable scenery and experiences.
Self-guided
Casual+ hotels
Brixen
Merano
moderate
47 km / 29 mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 12
Innsbruck Airport INN)
Innsbruck Airport (INN)
Highlights
Cycle the Dolomites and Pustertal Valley
Cycle through dramatic alpine valleys where snow capped peaks and green meadows create postcard-perfect views.
Stroll through historic Bolzano
Wander arcaded streets, sip coffee in lively piazzas, and uncover centuries of culture in South Tyrol’s capital.
Ride around Lake Kalterer See
Ride through sun drenched vineyards and pause to taste world class wines beside a shimmering lake.
Breathe in Merano’s elegance
Relax in a spa town renowned for its orchards, thermal baths, and lush botanical gardens.
Follow rivers into hidden valleys
Glide along scenic paths in the Vinschgau Valley, where every bend reveals new beauty
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+ Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Brixen | Hotel GrünerBaum (4-star) | B | ||
| DAY 2 | Brixen | Hotel GrünerBaum (4-star) | B | 65 km / 40 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Bolzano | Parkhotel Laurin (4-star) | B | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Bolzano | Parkhotel Laurin (4-star) | B | 45 km / 28 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Merano | Villa Bavaria (4-star) | B | 38 km / 23 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Merano | Villa Bavaria (4-star) | B | 60 km / 37 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Merano | Villa Bavaria (4-star) | B | 35 km / 22 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Brixen
Your journey begins in Brixen, one of South Tyrol’s oldest towns, where Alpine and Mediterranean cultures meet. Stroll the medieval streets lined with arcaded houses, admire the frescoes in the cathedral, or enjoy a glass of crisp local white wine before the cycling adventure begins.
Overnight in a comfortable 4-star hotel, from where you can sense the anticipation of the landscapes to come.
Day 2: Brixen
Your morning begins with a 1-hour group transfer to Dobbiaco in the Hochpustertal, where you collect your bike and set off on your Tyrolean journey.
The route follows the River Rienz past the beautiful Pragsertal Valley and the sparkling Olang reservoir.
Stop in Brunico, a lively town with Tyrolean charm and an impressive castle. From there, the trail descends through the Puster Valley, skirting the ruins of the Mühlbacher Klause before entering the Eisack Valley.
Just before Brixen, visit Neustift Abbey, a monastery famed for its wine cellars. The day ends back in Brixen’s historic center, a perfect blend of culture and cycling.
Day 3: Bolzano
Leaving Brixen, follow the Eisack River south through a ribbon of vineyards that cling to steep valley sides. The small artists’ town of Chiusa, with its narrow lanes and hillside monastery, is a delightful stop along the way. Soon, the valley opens up and you reach Bolzano, the capital of South Tyrol.
Here you can explore bustling piazzas, shop under medieval arcades, or visit the South Tyrol Archaeological Museum, home of Ötzi the Ice Man. In the evening, enjoy Bolzano’s lively mix of Italian espresso bars and Tyrolean wine taverns.
Day 4: Bolzano
Today’s ride takes you into Appiano, South Tyrol’s most celebrated wine country.
Passing Castle Sigmundskron, cycle toward Appiano, an area dotted with castles, vineyards, and manor houses. The route continues through rolling hills toward Caldaro, home of the South Tyrolean Wine Museum and the village’s atmospheric wine cellars. Just beyond, the serene Kalterer See invites a lakeside pause.
Adventurers can detour to the Montiggler Lakes for a swim in pristine waters before returning along the Adige cycle path back to Bolzano.
Day 5: Merano
From Bolzano, ride past Sigmundskron Castle and enter the lush apple orchards that South Tyrol is famous for. The route traces the Wine Road through Andriano, where South Tyrol’s oldest winery is located, before continuing through Terlano and Nalles.
Soon, the path brings you to Lana, a village with an inviting blend of churches, gardens, and cafés. Your destination is Merano, a historic spa town framed by mountains yet touched by Mediterranean sunshine. Don’t miss the enchanting Botanical Gardens at Trauttmansdorff Castle, a highlight of South Tyrol.
Day 6: Merano
Take the train up to Malles, in the far reaches of the Vinschgau Valley, and then cycle the entire way back down to Merano. This is one of South Tyrol’s most rewarding rides, a gentle downhill along orchards, medieval towers, and mountain views.
Pause in Glorenza, South Tyrol’s smallest town, then roll past Prato allo Stelvio, Lasa (famous for its white marble), Silandro, and Naturno. Each town offers reasons to linger — baroque churches, fortresses, or apple strudel at a café, before arriving back in Merano for a second night.
Day 7: Merano
For your final ride, follow the dedicated cycle path into the Passeier Valley, a quieter and more traditional part of South Tyrol. Surrounded by rushing rivers and high Alpine peaks, this route lets you soak in the region’s raw natural beauty.
Pause for a leisurely lunch or coffee before making your way back to Merano. Spend your last evening strolling the palm-lined promenade, perhaps indulging in a final gelato or glass of Lagrein red wine as you reflect on the journey.
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, a transfer returns you to Brixen where the tour began. If you’d like to linger, you can extend your stay in Merano or Brixen to enjoy more of South Tyrol’s culture, cuisine, and scenery.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Single Supplement
From US $440
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $150
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
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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
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 Bike or similar
Included in your trip price
Ktm Macina Fun 510 or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your tour begins in the charming Tyrolean town of Brixen/Bressanone. The nearest airport is the Bolzano Airport (BZO), which is a regional airport offering flights to Rome and Berlin. It is located 40kms ( 25mi) from Brixen.
The Innsbruck Airport is neighboring Austria has better connectivity to European hubs such as Amsterdam, London, and Frankfurt. It is located 80kms ( 50mi) from Brixen.
The Venice International Airport (VCE) located some 200kms ( 125mi) from Brixen has excellent international connectivity, including long-haul intercontinental flights. Trains and buses are available from Venice to reach Brixen. The journey takes around 4 hours.
Departure
Your tour ends in Merano. A group transfer to Brixen is included. From Brixen, you can continue your onwards journey to Bolzano, Innsbruck, Verona, or Venice.
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
Good
June
Best
July
Best
August
Best
September
Best
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:
- 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.
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