Italy: The Dolomites, Bolzano to Lake Garda

All you have to do is get to the airport. On our Air Packages, we’ll take care of the rest, handling all the logistics, so you can travel with peace of mind. Spend your first night aloft and arrive refreshed for an unforgettable trip.

Start off your first day in Innsbruck right by having a VBT representative greet you at the airport. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel. From here, you are perfectly positioned to explore this charming city at your leisure.

Enjoy an included breakfast this morning and/or a stroll in Innsbruck Old Town. At 10:30 a.m., board a private coach and travel to Bolzano, Italy, arriving at your centrally located hotel around 12:00 p.m. The coach will be parked just outside your Innsbruck hotel and will have a VBT sign. If you brought your own saddle or pedals, carry them with you and hand them to the leaders as you meet them later this morning. Your trip leaders will welcome you in Bolzano and offer tips for lunch on your own. Your rooms may not be ready until 3:00 p.m., but you are welcome to store your luggage at the reception desk.

This is where your cycling the Dolomites journey begins. Meet with your group at 2:00 p.m. for a safety and bike-fitting session with your trip leaders. Your biking clothes are not required to attend this meeting. By the end of the session, your rooms will be ready, and you will have time to settle in and change into your biking clothes. Later, enjoy a warm-up ride along easy, scenic bike paths outside the city. You will cycle along the Talfer River to the Talfer Meadows and the base of the medieval Runkelstein Castle, one of the most majestic castles in the valleys surrounding Bolzano.

Later, as you ride along the Isarco River, the Rosengarten range rises before you. The summits of these mountains change color to various shades of red and purple during sunset. Legend attributes this magical show to the dwarf King Laurin, who was said to be able to change the hue of his favorite roses in the twilight.

This evening, gather for a welcome cocktail at the legendary hotel bar and admire the unique artwork and fresco paintings depicting the saga of King Laurin. The entire hotel collection includes around 200 original 20th-century works, from woodcuts to canvas pieces, from Impressionism to German New Objectivity. Exquisite works can be found in the guestrooms, parlors and the hotel’s private park.

Tonight, a special welcome dinner will be served in the elegant rooms or terrace of your hotel.

Today’s Ride Choices

Afternoon Warm-up — 15 km (9 miles)

What to Expect: The warm-up ride takes you on the outskirts of the city to the base of the Runkelstein Castle. As you approach the castle, you’ll encounter a gradual uphill. The entire ride is on bike paths, which you’ll follow into Bolzano’s main square. You will need to walk your bike for a very short stretch to your hotel, located right in the heart of the old city.

Cumulative Distance Range: 15 km (9 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After a hearty buffet breakfast, you will cycle directly from your hotel, following an easy bike path out of town along the Isarco River. The landscape opens up as you skirt the foot of Sigmundskron Castle, one of six mountain museums established by the famed South Tyrolean mountaineer, Reinhold Messner, and dedicated to mountain people and culture.

At the confluence of the Adige and Isarco Rivers, the route gently climbs past the sloping vineyards of the Kalterer Valley. As you ascend, marvel at the views of the valley surrounded by soaring mountains. Your route will remain easy for the rest of the day, pausing for lunch in Kalter. This mountain village is famous for the Gewürztraminer wine. Stop at one of the oldest wine cellars for a wine tasting visit.

Early this afternoon, you will cycle by Lake Caldaro, the warmest bathing lake in the Alps, and continue your alpine route on an easy bike path along the Adige River. This rewarding ride leads back to your hotel.

You have the rest of the day to stroll the beautiful Old Town of Bolzano, exploring its narrow alleys, old manor houses, and Romanesque and Gothic structures famously constructed by the Schiche brothers from Augsburg, Germany. You might stop to visit the Museum of Archaeology, whose main attraction is Oetzi the Iceman, the famous glacier mummy discovered fully clothed in 1991. The food culture of this alpine town is evident in its wide variety of organic food shops and a street market selling fresh products from nearby farms. Indulge in the local bounty when you choose a restaurant for dinner on your own. South Tyrol’s excellent cuisine is reflected in its numerous award-winning restaurants. In 2021, 20 of the region’s restaurants received a record 26 Michelin stars.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Bolzano to Caldaro — 18 km (11 miles)

Afternoon Caldaro to Bolzano with Shuttle — 13 km (8 miles) | Caldaro to Bolzano — 32 km (20 miles)

What to Expect: This morning’s ride follows a well-paved bike path along mostly flat or very gradually ascending terrain, with the exception of one long uphill that can be skipped by taking a five-minute support vehicle shuttle.In the afternoon, glide downhill from Caldaro for a beautiful ride past vineyards to Lake Caldaro. Then, follow the flat and well-paved Adige River bike path all the way back to the hotel. To shorten the afternoon ride, you may take a one-stop train ride from Ora to Bolzano.

Cumulative Distance Range: 13 – 50 km (8 – 31 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast

Setting off this morning, you will skirt the Noce River, following a well-paved bike path into the verdant Sole Valley; a spectacular expanse of emerald green, watched over by the dramatic Stelvio National Park mountain range to the north and the Adamello and Brenta Dolomites Natural Reserve to the south. This invigorating ride starts in the unspoiled Pejo Valley along the tranquil river, and continues through open meadows and shaded spruce woods, passing apple orchards and scenic picnic areas that beg you to stop a moment and take it all in. Later, the magnificent Ortles-Cevedale mountain range appears. A particularly charming highlight of the morning is the village of Pellizzano, an ancient cluster of stone buildings, and a frescoed medieval church. After lunch on your own at the restaurant which is part of the main rafting center of the valley, you may cycle a few more miles including an optional hill climb into the Meledrio Valley—the gateway to the ski resort Madonna di Campiglio, known as the “Pearl of the Brenta Dolomites.” You will stay in this picturesque corner of Trentino Alto Adige for the next two nights.

Often compared to the toniest of European destinations, Madonna di Campiglio gained fame in the 19th century when Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife Elisabeth (popularly known as “Sissi”) vacationed here. Celebrities still flock here to indulge in its glamorous atmosphere. In summer, outdoor enthusiasts find it the perfect location for hiking, rock climbing and, of course, biking. Unwind at your family-run, mountain hotel, enjoying the sauna and spa before dinner at the gourmet restaurant. You will savor its home-made dishes and organic selections, such as steelhead trout from the nearby Sarca River, served with apples from the Non Valley.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Cogolo to Caldes — 27 km (17 miles)

Afternoon Caldes to Dimaro — 8 km (5 miles) | Dimaro to Costa Rotian — 7 km (4 miles)

What to Expect: A shuttle takes you to Cogolo in the Pejo Valley this morning. The views are incredible. From here, you will coast downhill on a paved road with little car traffic for a couple of miles. Then you will follow a well-paved bike path along the Noce River to Caldes, mostly downhill or flat. The afternoon route features 8 km (5 miles) of easy riding on the same path, gradually gaining elevation up to Dimaro. An additional 7 km (4 miles) of moderate riding will take you to Costa Rotian for magnificent views. Later in the afternoon, a 20-minute shuttle from the bottom of the valley takes you to your hotel in Madonna di Campiglio.

Cumulative Distance Range: 8 – 42 km (5 – 26 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Awake this morning to the staggering beauty that encircles Madonna di Campiglio and your chalet. After a hearty breakfast prepared by your hosts, set off on a breathtaking day of riding amid the Adamello and Brenta Dolomites. Begin with an inspiring ride into the Vallesinella Valley, passing patches of high spruce trees, before pausing to visit a local cheesemaker at a family-run farm, the perfect setting for an informal merenda (traditional light snack). You’ll taste the delicious milk which comes from cows that graze in high mountain pastures during the summer. Later, enjoy lunch on your own. Early this afternoon, continue on your bike into the narrow and dramatic Genova Valley, cut into a canyon between the peaks of the Adamello and Presanella ranges. The Sarca River flows through this astonishingly deep ravine, dropping as it forms several scenic waterfalls. The Nardis Falls are almost close enough to touch as you ride past. Enjoy the ride at your pace, and if you’re up for it, add a few harder miles toward the bottom of the valley to see more waterfalls.

Later, shuttle back to Madonna di Campiglio and spend the afternoon as you wish. Board a cable car to one of the peaks for magnificent views and walks through the splendid landscape. Stop for a drink at a rifugio or shop in the local boutiques for some of the region’s renowned felt objects or sweaters. Tonight, you are treated to regional Trentino specialties at your hotel restaurant.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Chalet to Maso Pan — 22 km (13 miles)

Afternoon Maso Pan to Nardis and Carisolo — 13 km (8 miles)

What to Expect: This morning, your ride takes you into the quiet Vallesinella Valley before descending into the Rendena Valley on an exhilarating descent. The road is all paved, with minor potholes and hairpins in some stretches that require caution. The last miles follow an easy and well-paved bike path up to the farm where you will stop for lunch.In the afternoon, you continue into the Genova Valley on a paved road, with a gradual uphill leading to the spectacular Nardis waterfalls. You can skip the gradual hill with a short support vehicle shuttle with your trip leaders. The afternoon option ends with an easy and mostly downhill ride from the waterfalls to Carisolo. From there, all guests shuttle back to Madonna di Campiglio.

Cumulative Distance Range: 13 – 35 km (8 – 21 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today’s leg of cycling the Dolomites promises invigorating and beautiful rides along paved roads. Most of the route is downhill as you leave the Dolomites for Pinzolo and Lake Garda. Wide-open views of the Presanella and Adamello peaks and the Brenta Dolomites unfold, with their high elevation glaciers and jagged pinnacles. In Carisolo, you will enter the Rendena Valley and pedal along a well-paved bikeway along the banks of the Sarca River. In Stenico, you’ll pause for an included picnic lunch hosted at a local osteria by two smiling locals, Licia and Nicola. You may be interested in visiting the town’s wonderful castle where fine, ancient inlaid furniture, weapons, frescoes, stoves, and much more testify to the skills of local craftsmen of earlier centuries. Descending out of Stenico, you begin one of the most spectacular stretches of the week as you follow a path through the Limaro Canyon. This downhill route meanders along the roaring Sarca River and the natural ravine enclosed by the towering rock faces of Monte Casale.

You will end your spectacular ride in Sarche and enjoy a well-deserved gelato. A short shuttle takes you to your elegant hotel in Riva del Garda. After settling in, you have free time to explore the luxurious hotel gardens that stretch to the lakeshore. A short, easy walk on the lake promenade brings you to the heart of Riva, beautifully nestled at the foot of a steep rocky mountain. Dine on your own at the hotel restaurant or linger in Riva for an array of options.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Carisolo to Preore — 20 km (12 miles) | Preore to Stenico — 10 km (6 miles)

Afternoon Stenico to Sarche — 13 km (8 miles)

What to Expect: A 20-minute shuttle from Madonna di Campiglio this morning takes you to Carisolo in the Rendena Valley, where you’ll ride along a beautifully paved bike path to its end in Preore. There, you can opt to shuttle to our lunch spot in Stenico or continue by bike on a scenic, easy to moderate route, partly carved into the side of a steep mountain.The afternoon ride from Stenico down to Sarche is mostly downhill and extremely scenic, including a stretch in the canyon formed by the Sarca River. You will then shuttle from Sarca to your hotel (25 minutes). The last two miles are downhill with some car traffic.

Cumulative Distance Range: 13 – 43 km (8 – 26 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Mountains surrounding Lake Garda shield the valley from cooler air currents, creating a Mediterranean climate where olive and fruit trees, vineyards, exotic flowers and even palms all thrive. Your journey culminates in this paradise as you depart directly from your hotel and cycle north on mostly flat terrain to Sarca River Park, where the river spills into Lake Garda. This is one ride where you’ll want to stop along the way and take a closer look at some of the different habitats and sights including the quaint village of Arco, with its castle looming from a high spur. Take in the stark beauty of the Marocche di Dro habitat, an unexpectedly dry and almost lunar landscape. Pedal through the vineyard-blanketed wine region of Sarche. Later, arrive at the quiet, verdant shores of intimate Lake Cavedine, where the Pedrotti family has invited you to join them for lunch on their wine-making farm. Enjoy simple specialties such as fragrant tomatoes grown in the Gresta Valley, freshly baked bread, and meats and cheeses from nearby organic farms. Here you’ll taste the local vino santo, a satisfying rich, sweet “meditation” wine that the Pedrotti family has made the same way for generations. These wines are meant to stand alone, rather than be consumed with food.

After a rewarding lunch, you will loop back to Riva and your hotel. Later this afternoon, you may treat yourself to the luxurious spa and wellness center located in the property’s majestic park or go for a swim in Lake Garda. Our farewell dinner is in Riva tonight, hosted in a 1600s manor house.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Riva to Pedrotti — 28 km (17 miles)

Afternoon Pedrotti Farm to Riva — 24 km (15 miles)

What to Expect: Today’s route is a beautiful loop; half on a well-paved bike path and half on country roads. The morning ride includes a long gradual uphill midway, which can easily be skipped by a short support vehicle shuttle. In the afternoon, you continue on an easy descent to Lake Garda and your hotel.

Cumulative Distance Range: 24 – 52 km (15 – 32 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, walk to the ferry embarcadero where you will take a scenic two-hour cruise on Lake Garda to Gargnano. The ferry is scheduled to depart Riva at 9:25 a.m. and arrive at Gargnano at 11:37 a.m. Make sure you are ready to disembark at the scheduled time. There are restrooms and a bar onboard for your comfort. In this picturesque village, there will be time to pick up some lunch or maybe a gelato. You will depart at 12:00 p.m. by bus to your centrally-located hotel in Milan, arriving at approximately 3:00 p.m. When you disembark in Gargnano, walk left toward a small square with docked boats. On the square you will find the Azzurro gelato shop, a bar and a grocery store where you can buy some refreshments. Continue left, walking up cobbled Via Roma for approx. 600 feet. At the end of the road on your left on Piazza Boldroni, you will find a private coach with a VBT sign, ready to leave at 12:00 p.m. for Milan. The driver will make a short stop on the motorway before getting to your destination. In Milan you may join VBT’s local guide on an orientation walk.

If you have chosen VBT’s independent Post-Trip Extension to Milan, you will remain here for three nights. Your local representative can help you make the most of your stay and will propose optional city tours for the next days. VBT’s city information includes recommendations for restaurants, museums, and transportation in the area, and will help you explore on your own.

Included Meals: Breakfast

After your included breakfast this morning, complimentary transportation to the Malpensa Airport will be provided (an approximately 60 minute drive, depending on traffic) for your departing flight.

After your included breakfast* this morning, complimentary transportation to Malpensa Airport (an approximately 60 minute drive, depending on traffic) for your departing flight**. Please ensure you are ready in the hotel reception area at the designated time.

*For guests with early-morning departures, breakfast at the hotel may not be available. Please check with the front desk to verify the times that breakfast is served.

**VBT transportation times and departure points are finalized in advance and cannot be modified for individual guests. If you extend your stay beyond the scheduled program dates, return transportation to the airport will be at your own expense.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Your tour starts at 2:00 p.m. at our Bolzano hotel (Parkhotel Laurin, Via Laurin 4, Bolzano, Phone +39 0471 311000). Your trip leaders will meet you in the lobby wearing VBT staff garments. Please have lunch before meeting your group and trip leaders. If your arrival at our Bolzano hotel will be later than 2:00 p.m. or if you are delayed, please call the hotel and ask the front desk to pass the message on to your trip leaders. If you prefer to board our private coach which is reserved for the Air Package guests in Innsbruck and travel to Bolzano, make sure you are outside our Innsbruck Hotel at 10:30 a.m.

This is where your cycling the Dolomites journey begins. Meet with your group at 2:00 p.m. for a safety and bike-fitting session with your trip leaders. Your biking clothes are not required to attend this meeting. By the end of the session, your rooms will be ready, and you will have time to settle in and change into your biking clothes Later, enjoy a warm-up ride along easy, scenic bike paths outside the city. You will cycle along the Talfer River to the Talfer Meadows and the base of the medieval Runkelstein Castle, one of the most majestic castles in the valleys surrounding Bolzano.

Later, as you ride along the Isarco River, the Rosengarten range rises before you. The summits of these mountains change color to various shades of red and purple during sunset. Legend attributes this magical show to the dwarf King Laurin, who was said to be able to change the hue of his favorite roses in the twilight.

This evening, gather for a welcome cocktail at the legendary hotel bar and admire the unique artwork and fresco paintings depicting the saga of King Laurin. The entire hotel collection includes around 200 original 20th-century works, from woodcuts to canvas pieces, from Impressionism to German New Objectivity. Exquisite works can be found in the guestrooms, parlors and the hotel’s private park.

Tonight, a special welcome dinner will be served in the elegant rooms or terrace of your hotel.

Today’s Ride Choices

Afternoon Warm-up — 15 km (9 miles)

What to Expect: The warm-up ride takes you on the outskirts of the city to the base of the Runkelstein Castle. As you approach the castle, you’ll encounter a gradual uphill. The entire ride is on bike paths, which you’ll follow into Bolzano’s main square. You will need to walk your bike for a very short stretch to your hotel, located right in the heart of the old city.

Cumulative Distance Range: 15 km (9 miles)

Included Meals: Dinner

After a hearty buffet breakfast, you will cycle directly from your hotel, following an easy bike path out of town along the Isarco River. The landscape opens up as you skirt the foot of Sigmundskron Castle, one of six mountain museums established by the famed South Tyrolean mountaineer, Reinhold Messner, and dedicated to mountain people and culture.

At the confluence of the Adige and Isarco Rivers, the route gently climbs past the sloping vineyards of the Kalterer Valley. As you ascend, marvel at the views of the valley surrounded by soaring mountains. Your route will remain easy for the rest of the day, pausing for lunch in Kalter. This mountain village is famous for the Gewürztraminer wine. Stop at one of the oldest wine cellars for a wine tasting visit.

Early this afternoon, you will cycle by Lake Caldaro, the warmest bathing lake in the Alps, and continue your alpine route on an easy bike path along the Adige River. This rewarding ride leads back to your hotel.

You have the rest of the day to stroll the beautiful Old Town of Bolzano, exploring its narrow alleys, old manor houses, and Romanesque and Gothic structures famously constructed by the Schiche brothers from Augsburg, Germany. You might stop to visit the Museum of Archaeology, whose main attraction is Oetzi the Iceman, the famous glacier mummy discovered fully clothed in 1991. The food culture of this alpine town is evident in its wide variety of organic food shops and a street market selling fresh products from nearby farms. Indulge in the local bounty when you choose a restaurant for dinner on your own. South Tyrol’s excellent cuisine is reflected in its numerous award-winning restaurants. In 2021, 20 of the region’s restaurants received a record 26 Michelin stars.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Bolzano to Caldaro — 18 km (11 miles)

Afternoon Caldaro to Bolzano with Shuttle — 13 km (8 miles) | Caldaro to Bolzano — 32 km (20 miles)

What to Expect: This morning’s ride follows a well-paved bike path along mostly flat or very gradually ascending terrain, with the exception of one long uphill that can be skipped by taking a five-minute support vehicle shuttle.In the afternoon, glide downhill from Caldaro for a beautiful ride past vineyards to Lake Caldaro. Then, follow the flat and well-paved Adige River bike path all the way back to the hotel. To shorten the afternoon ride, you may take a one-stop train ride from Ora to Bolzano.

Cumulative Distance Range: 13 – 50 km (8 – 31 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast

Setting off this morning, you will skirt the Noce River, following a well-paved bike path into the verdant Sole Valley; a spectacular expanse of emerald green, watched over by the dramatic Stelvio National Park mountain range to the north and the Adamello and Brenta Dolomites Natural Reserve to the south. This invigorating ride starts in the unspoiled Pejo Valley along the tranquil river, and continues through open meadows and shaded spruce woods, passing apple orchards and scenic picnic areas that beg you to stop a moment and take it all in. Later, the magnificent Ortles-Cevedale mountain range appears. A particularly charming highlight of the morning is the village of Pellizzano, an ancient cluster of stone buildings, and a frescoed medieval church. After lunch on your own at the restaurant which is part of the main rafting center of the valley, you may cycle a few more miles including an optional hill climb into the Meledrio Valley—the gateway to the ski resort Madonna di Campiglio, known as the “Pearl of the Brenta Dolomites.” You will stay in this picturesque corner of Trentino Alto Adige for the next two nights.

Often compared to the toniest of European destinations, Madonna di Campiglio gained fame in the 19th century when Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife Elisabeth (popularly known as “Sissi”) vacationed here. Celebrities still flock here to indulge in its glamorous atmosphere. In summer, outdoor enthusiasts find it the perfect location for hiking, rock climbing and, of course, biking. Unwind at your family-run, mountain hotel, enjoying the sauna and spa before dinner at the gourmet restaurant. You will savor its home-made dishes and organic selections, such as steelhead trout from the nearby Sarca River, served with apples from the Non Valley.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Cogolo to Caldes — 27 km (17 miles)

Afternoon Caldes to Dimaro — 8 km (5 miles) | Dimaro to Costa Rotian — 7 km (4 miles)

What to Expect: A shuttle takes you to Cogolo in the Pejo Valley this morning. The views are incredible. From here, you will coast downhill on a paved road with little car traffic for a couple of miles. Then you will follow a well-paved bike path along the Noce River to Caldes, mostly downhill or flat. The afternoon route features 8 km (5 miles) of easy riding on the same path, gradually gaining elevation up to Dimaro. An additional 7 km (4 miles) of moderate riding will take you to Costa Rotian for magnificent views. Later in the afternoon, a 20-minute shuttle from the bottom of the valley takes you to your hotel in Madonna di Campiglio.

Cumulative Distance Range: 8 – 42 km (5 – 26 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Awake this morning to the staggering beauty that encircles Madonna di Campiglio and your chalet. After a hearty breakfast prepared by your hosts, set off on a breathtaking day of riding amid the Adamello and Brenta Dolomites. Begin with an inspiring ride into the Vallesinella Valley, passing patches of high spruce trees, before pausing to visit a local cheesemaker at a family-run farm, the perfect setting for an informal merenda (traditional light snack). You’ll taste the delicious milk which comes from cows that graze in high mountain pastures during the summer. Later, enjoy lunch on your own. Early this afternoon, continue on your bike into the narrow and dramatic Genova Valley, cut into a canyon between the peaks of the Adamello and Presanella ranges. The Sarca River flows through this astonishingly deep ravine, dropping as it forms several scenic waterfalls. The Nardis Falls are almost close enough to touch as you ride past. Enjoy the ride at your pace, and if you’re up for it, add a few harder miles toward the bottom of the valley to see more waterfalls.

Later, shuttle back to Madonna di Campiglio and spend the afternoon as you wish. Board a cable car to one of the peaks for magnificent views and walks through the splendid landscape. Stop for a drink at a rifugio or shop in the local boutiques for some of the region’s renowned felt objects or sweaters. Tonight, you are treated to regional Trentino specialties at your hotel restaurant.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Chalet to Maso Pan — 22 km (13 miles)

Afternoon Maso Pan to Nardis and Carisolo — 13 km (8 miles)

What to Expect: This morning, your ride takes you into the quiet Vallesinella Valley before descending into the Rendena Valley on an exhilarating descent. The road is all paved, with minor potholes and hairpins in some stretches that require caution. The last miles follow an easy and well-paved bike path up to the farm where you will stop for lunch.In the afternoon, you continue into the Genova Valley on a paved road, with a gradual uphill leading to the spectacular Nardis waterfalls. You can skip the gradual hill with a short support vehicle shuttle with your trip leaders. The afternoon option ends with an easy and mostly downhill ride from the waterfalls to Carisolo. From there, all guests shuttle back to Madonna di Campiglio.

Cumulative Distance Range: 13 – 35 km (8 – 21 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today’s leg of cycling the Dolomites promises invigorating and beautiful rides along paved roads. Most of the route is downhill as you leave the Dolomites for Pinzolo and Lake Garda. Wide-open views of the Presanella and Adamello peaks and the Brenta Dolomites unfold, with their high elevation glaciers and jagged pinnacles. In Carisolo, you will enter the Rendena Valley and pedal along a well-paved bikeway along the banks of the Sarca River. In Stenico, you’ll pause for an included picnic lunch hosted at a local osteria by two smiling locals, Licia and Nicola. You may be interested in visiting the town’s wonderful castle where fine, ancient inlaid furniture, weapons, frescoes, stoves, and much more testify to the skills of local craftsmen of earlier centuries. Descending out of Stenico, you begin one of the most spectacular stretches of the week as you follow a path through the Limaro Canyon. This downhill route meanders along the roaring Sarca River and the natural ravine enclosed by the towering rock faces of Monte Casale.

You will end your spectacular ride in Sarche and enjoy a well-deserved gelato. A short shuttle takes you to your elegant hotel in Riva del Garda. After settling in, you have free time to explore the luxurious hotel gardens that stretch to the lakeshore. A short, easy walk on the lake promenade brings you to the heart of Riva, beautifully nestled at the foot of a steep rocky mountain. Dine on your own at the hotel restaurant or linger in Riva for an array of options.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Carisolo to Preore — 20 km (12 miles) | Preore to Stenico — 10 km (6 miles)

Afternoon Stenico to Sarche — 13 km (8 miles)

What to Expect: A 20-minute shuttle from Madonna di Campiglio this morning takes you to Carisolo in the Rendena Valley, where you’ll ride along a beautifully paved bike path to its end in Preore. There, you can opt to shuttle to our lunch spot in Stenico or continue by bike on a scenic, easy to moderate route, partly carved into the side of a steep mountain.The afternoon ride from Stenico down to Sarche is mostly downhill and extremely scenic, including a stretch in the canyon formed by the Sarca River. You will then shuttle from Sarca to your hotel (25 minutes). The last two miles are downhill with some car traffic.

Cumulative Distance Range: 13 – 43 km (8 – 26 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Mountains surrounding Lake Garda shield the valley from cooler air currents, creating a Mediterranean climate where olive and fruit trees, vineyards, exotic flowers and even palms all thrive. Your journey culminates in this paradise as you depart directly from your hotel and cycle north on mostly flat terrain to Sarca River Park, where the river spills into Lake Garda. This is one ride where you’ll want to stop along the way and take a closer look at some of the different habitats and sights including the quaint village of Arco, with its castle looming from a high spur. Take in the stark beauty of the Marocche di Dro habitat, an unexpectedly dry and almost lunar landscape. Pedal through the vineyard-blanketed wine region of Sarche. Later, arrive at the quiet, verdant shores of intimate Lake Cavedine, where the Pedrotti family has invited you to join them for lunch on their wine-making farm. Enjoy simple specialties such as fragrant tomatoes grown in the Gresta Valley, freshly baked bread, and meats and cheeses from nearby organic farms. Here you’ll taste the local vino santo, a satisfying rich, sweet “meditation” wine that the Pedrotti family has made the same way for generations. These wines are meant to stand alone, rather than be consumed with food.

After a rewarding lunch, you will loop back to Riva and your hotel. Later this afternoon, you may treat yourself to the luxurious spa and wellness center located in the property’s majestic park or go for a swim in Lake Garda. Our farewell dinner is in Riva tonight, hosted in a 1600s manor house.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Riva to Pedrotti — 28 km (17 miles)

Afternoon Pedrotti Farm to Riva — 24 km (15 miles)

What to Expect: Today’s route is a beautiful loop; half on a well-paved bike path and half on country roads. The morning ride includes a long gradual uphill midway, which can easily be skipped by a short support vehicle shuttle. In the afternoon, you continue on an easy descent to Lake Garda and your hotel.

Cumulative Distance Range: 24 – 52 km (15 – 32 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, walk to the ferry embarcadero where you will take a scenic two-hour cruise on Lake Garda to Gargnano. The ferry is scheduled to depart Riva at 9:25 a.m. and arrive at Gargnano at 11:37 a.m. Make sure you are ready to disembark at the scheduled time. There are restrooms and a bar onboard for your comfort. In this picturesque village, there will be time to pick up some lunch or maybe a gelato. Afterward, together with the Air Package guests, you will depart at 12:00 p.m. by bus to Milan, arriving at approximately 3:00 p.m.

When you disembark in Gargnano, walk left toward a small square with docked boats. On the square you will find the Azzurro gelato shop, a bar and a grocery store, if you like to buy some refreshments. Then continue left walking up cobbled Via Roma for approx. 600 feet. At the end of the road on your left on Piazza Boldroni, you will find a private coach with a VBT sign, ready to leave at 12:00 p.m. for Milan. The driver will make a short stop on the motorway before getting to your destination. Your tour ends at our centrally located hotel. From here, a taxi or public transportation can take you to the airport or train station at your own expense.

If you have chosen VBT’s independent Post-Trip Extension to Milan, you will remain here for three nights. Your local representative can help you make the most of your stay and will propose optional city tours for the next days. VBT’s city information includes recommendations for restaurants, museums, and transportation in the area, and will help you explore on your own.

Included Meals: Breakfast