Luxury Dolomites Bike (World Class Routes in Italy & Austria) 6D5N, Fully Guided

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx 31 km (19 miles), Elevation gain: 305 m (1000 ft)
Level 2, Approx 36 km (23 miles), Elevation gain: 549 m (1800 ft)

Arrive today at the grand Bolzano-Bozen railway station in Bolzano, Italy at 9 a.m. to meet your trip leaders. Be sure to arrive in appropriate biking attire, along with a daypack containing your rain gear and any other supplies you may need for today's adventure. (Your luggage will be transferred to your first night's accommodation). Pack up your day bags and get ready for a short hike to the staging location, where you'll hop on the renowned Ritten Train.

A reliable guide will be waiting for you at the Bolzano station, and together you'll visit the city's famous gondolas and the lovely Ritten Railway. After your trip Leaders have briefed you on bike maintenance and safety precautions, set out on an exhilarating journey that will reward you with stunning views of the Dolomites' most famous peaks. Get your blood pumping with a thrilling descent to a delicious lunch, then cruise along the Eisack River on relatively empty cycle paths (piste ciclabili) to the mediaeval town of Brixen.

After filling up on the best of the local fare at one of our favourite cafes, we'll take a leisurely route to the Hotel Elephant, a four-star Tyrolean gem run by a warm and welcoming family. Relax in the privacy of your room or take advantage of the resort's pool and sauna. We also have what you need if you're an explorer who wants to practise your climbing skills.

Tonight, we gather for an evening aperitivo followed by a delicious dinner filled with delectable Italian delights at the hotel’s elegant restaurant.

FOUR BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx 24 km (15 miles), Elevation gain: 91 m (300 ft)
Level 2, Approx 40 km (25 miles), Elevation gain: 122 m (400 ft)
Level 3, Approx 60 km (37 miles), Elevation gain: 183 m (600 ft)
Level 4, Approx 72 km (45 miles), Elevation gain: 700 m (2000 ft)

As the sun peeks over the mountain tops and the morning mist clears, we gather together in the cosy warmth of breakfast to embark on a breathtaking adventure. First, we take a shuttle to the railway station, where we board a train bound for a magical staging area near the border between Italy and Austria, in the breathtaking Brenner Pass.

Our trusty bikes will be waiting for us when we arrive, and we can't wait to get rolling on a scenic ride through the verdant meadows and fragrant pine woods that dot the route. The Upper Italian Wipptal's breathtaking scenery enfolds us as we make our journey south along the Eisack River. We stop to take in the mediaeval plaza and old town centre of Sterzing on the way; its bright Tyrolean streets lined with charming arcaded porticoes invite us to get lost in their enduring beauty.

After a light lunch and a tantalising taste of the local wines, we continue our relaxing trip by winding our way back down to the lower Eisack Valley and check into our hotel in Brixen's historic city centre. For the more adventurous, we have included an extra loop that passes through some quaint villages perched on the slopes above the city. Otherwise, we provide the option of winding down after a wonderful day with a sauna session or a relaxing spa service.

In the evening, we gather together once again to indulge in yet another exquisite alpine dinner of local specialties, as we reflect on the enchanting experiences of the day that has passed.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx 29 km (18 miles), Elevation gain: 488 m (1600 ft)
Level 3, Approx 32 km (20 miles), Elevation gain: 700m (2000 ft)
Level 4, Approx 64 km (40 miles), Elevation gain: 792m (2600 ft)

After indulging in a spectacular breakfast spread, get ready to embark on an experience of a lifetime. Hop on a transport that will take you on an unforgettable adventure through the enchanted Puster Valley. The dramatic background of Rienza Canyon, cascading rivers, and quaint hamlets all come together to create the perfect image for a postcard.

The journey will bring you to the historic village of Bruneck, which is located in an idyllic setting at the meeting point of the Rienza and Ahr Rivers. The town that speaks German provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon filled with gastronomic pleasures at our go-to enoteca.

After a delectable lunch, you can either go directly to Riscone to explore the surrounding area or go on a refreshing ride up the tranquil Ahrn valley. Amidst the towering peaks of the Dolomites, the opulent 5-star Falkensteiner Hotel Kronplatz invites travellers to come and stay with it. Shift from the thrills of adventure and give your body and mind the rest and relaxation they so desperately need here. You can unwind by reading a novel while sipping an aperitivo by the pool or treat yourself to a relaxing massage (at own expense).

As the sun sets over the rugged terrain, gather with your fellow travelers for a tasting of the region's finest wines. Delight your palate with the valley's exquisite cuisine, as you dine under the starry skies. It's a night to remember, and the adventures of tomorrow await!

FOUR BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx 18 km (11 miles), Elevation gain: 91 m (300 ft)
Level 2, Approx 35 km (22 miles), Elevation gain: 579 m (1900 ft)
Level 3, Approx 51 km (32 miles), Elevation gain: 244 m (800 ft)
Level 4, Approx 80 km (50 miles), Elevation gain: 732 m (2400 ft)

Indulge in one final, exquisite Italian espresso or cappuccino as we prepare to bid Italy farewell and bid a warm Guten Tag to Austria.

The day will begin with a pleasant ride downhill from the famous Falkensteiner Hotel Kronplatz to the picturesque town of Bruneck, where our wonderful adventure will officially begin. Avoid the steeper inclines and explore more of the city by hopping on the local train, or head out on a scenic journey along the River Rienza and take in the verdant forest paths and quaint settlements that dot the landscape on the way to Innichen. This picturesque mediaeval village, known as San Candido, is the perfect spot for a revitalising meal.

Take a gondola journey up to a quaint mountain lodge in the Sexter Dolomites's heaven-like northern reaches. Indulge in traditional, flavorful Alpine fare like polenta, goulasch, melted cheese, bratwurst, and mushrooms while gazing in awe at the breathtaking scenery.

As the sun begins to set, make your way down the lift and back onto your trusty steed to continue your adventure through the scenic river valley, crossing into Austria and descending into Lienz, a postcard perfect town that embodies charm and tranquility and is located at the confluence of the Isel and Drau Rivers.

Today you'll be lodged in the Ultra-chic Grand Hotel Lienz, located in the centre of Austria's magnificent Alps. The Grand Hotel Lienz is an enchanting haven of luxury and elegance that will take your breath away. Every aspect of this hotel has been designed to provide you with an unforgettable stay, beginning with the lobby's lavish furnishings and sophisticated atmosphere. Enjoy the hotel's state-of-the-art leisure, gourmet restaurants, and comfortable, sophisticated rooms while taking in the stunning scenery of the nearby mountains.

After you've settled in, you can go for a Schnapps tasting at a nearby distillery and then spend the evening in gastronomic heaven at one of the many wonderful eateries in Lienz's charming old town. Our group of experts is more than happy to share recommendations for their favourite local haunts.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx 34 km (21 miles), Elevation gain: 457m (1500 ft)
Level 3, Approx 66 km (41 miles), Elevation gain: 700m (2000 ft)
Level 4, Approx 74 km (46 miles), Elevation gain: 1311m (4300 ft)

Feeling refreshed, it's time to grasp the day and go on another thrilling journey. To reach the charming town of Matrei, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and local specialties fills the air, you must first master the challenging terrain of the Isel River basin. Treat your senses and take in the beautiful scenery as you make a pit stop at the local market to browse its regional products and savour a mid-morning coffee.

The next stop, Kals am Großglockner, beckons adventurers with a stupendous ascent through dense woods, panoramic views of the mountains, and a revitalising descent. On the other hand, a delicious Austrian picnic awaits the leisurely traveler in the lush yard of a Tyrolean farm.

Now that you're full and refreshed, you can relax in the van or set out on two wheels and take a leisurely scenic ride back to Lienz. Spend as much time as you like wandering the town's charming streets, checking out the magnificent palace, or zipping down the alpine coaster. Raise a drink as the sun sets on this incredible adventure and cheers to the memories that will last a lifetime. Prost!, as the people of Austria would say. Cheers!

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx 24 km (15 miles), Elevation gain: 152m (500 ft)
Level 2, Approx 29 km (18 miles), Elevation gain: 335m (1100 ft)

Stunning views of the Lienzer Dolomites await you on the final leg of this fantastic trip. The valley of the Drau River, with its alpine meadows and dense forests, will enchant you as you set out from your accommodation. Explore the village of Lavant, where three different styles of architecture—Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque—stand side by side. The final test awaits the courageous as they ride to the postcard-perfect Tristacher Lake, a setting direct from a fairy tale.

If you prefer a more laid-back start to the day, you can relax at the hotel with a final dip at the pool or take a leisurely stroll to the town square. Relax with a hot cup of coffee and take in the sights and sounds of the neighbourhood as you let yourself be swept away by the enchantment of the setting.

Later in the day, bid your goodbyes to the group's leaders and take a chartered bus to Bolzano, where our incredible journey comes to an end.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.