Between the famous ski resort of Cortina d'Ampezzo and the lake resort of Riva del Garda on Lake Garda, lie mountains which look like no others in Europe. La Corsa's tour through the Dolomite Mountains puts you on the very famous cycling roads often included in the Giro d'Italia. If you're an advanced cyclist who loves serious climbing and screaming descents, nothing compares to the thrill of cycling the Dolomites. Enjoy the stuff experienced cyclists read, watch and dream about. Soaring, snow-capped granite peaks will surround you, as you ride on velvet-smooth pavement past cool blue, glacial lakes and descend into green valleys. Test your limits as you follow in the tracks of Coppi, Bartali and Merckx and the other legendary bike racers of cycling history. Why just watch it when you can ride it?
Your Itinerary
Day 1:
Day One - The Wine Roads of Bolzano.
20 mile loop. 200 meters.
A great warm up to get your legs loose. Spin through the valley filled with vines surrounding rustic small towns, once part of Austria, where German is still the first language. Go for a second or third lap, relax with a swim and sauna or explore Bolzano. The city has many interesting sights and is located on the main train line making it an easy to reach starting point.
(D)
Day 2:
Day Two - Bolzano to Canazei.
35 miles 1635 cumulative meters.
Our first ride into the mountains starts out with a dramatic gorge of rock that makes up the Val d'Ega as we work our way up to the Passo di Costalunga. Suddenly we're in the Val di Fassa and the scenery changes to lush pines and alpine snow-capped peaks. One of the most beautiful valleys of the Dolomites, we spend the evening in the ski resort of Canazei at a comfortable chalet.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 3:
Day Three - The Gruppo di Selle.
40 miles 2055 meters.
The most famous passes. The most famous road. Today you ride the stuff legends are made of. The Pordoi, the Campolungo, the Gardegna and the Sella. See how you fare on the road of legends.
(B) (D)
Day 4:
Day Four - Canazei to Cortina.
Shortest route - 36 miles 1730 meters.
Add the detour to Corvara and Passo di Giau for even more miles and climbing. Our ride take us along the classic Grand Strada delle Dolomiti. With the glacial Marmolada soaring above you, ride to the town of Corvara and then attack the Falzorego before dropping down to attemp the Giau. Arrive in Cortina and know how the pros feel at the end of a stage.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 5:
Day Five - Bolzano
Optional ride Cortina to Dobbiaco.
Free day in Bolzano to explore the great shops, beautiful church and just relax and recover.
(B)
Day 6:
Day Six - Bolzano to Male.
60 miles, 1830 meters.
Today we climb the famous Passo Mendola on a road that winds its way up a seemingly vertical wall of rock. Arrive in Cles for a visit to Fondriest's bike shop. Spend the evening in the lovely town of Male.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 7:
Day Seven - Male to Campo Lomaso.
45 miles, 1300 meters.
On our way to Madonna di Campiglio we climb the Campo Carlo Magno and take a break under the ski lifts. Continue down the valley to Pinzolo and discover the little known roads where the cycling greats train. Come into the spa town of Comano Terme in time for a jacuzzi and massage.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 8:
Day Eight - Campo Lomaso to Rovereto.
45 miles, 1730 meters.
The Passo Ballino takes us past Lago Toblino and on to Lake Garda where we visit Moser's shop in Arco. Then it's time for the final challenge as we climb the heights of Mt. Velo on our way to Rovereto. Celebrate our accomplishments tonight in the exciting town.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 9:
Day Nine - Rovereto to Bolzano
50 flat miles on the Brenta River bike path.
A cool down spin on the bike path along the Brenta River brings us back to Bolzano.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 10:
Day Ten - Bolzano 30 mile loop
A final loop ride and we take a look around at the peaks and passes we conquered over the past nine days. You'll have gained a new understanding of the mountain stages of the Giro d'Italia, new respect for the pros and new strength in your legs. Plus you'll have great bragging rights when you get back home. Depart Bolzano.
(B)
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Also see tour packages in:
Europe
Italy
Outdoor: Land Rambler
Bicycle Touring
Health & Fitness
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