Cycling holidays in Dolomites

The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site in northeastern Italy, present cyclists with a distinct landscape featuring towering limestone peaks and high-altitude passes. The region is famous for its challenging climbs, such as Passo Sella (2,244 m) and Passo Pordoi, which have been featured in the Giro d'Italia multiple times. The Sella Ronda loop (52–55 km) connects four major passes, creating a demanding yet rewarding route for advanced cyclists. For those seeking less elevation, the Val Pusteria Cycle Path offers a flatter ride along the Rienza river.

Cycling here is a serious endeavor, with sustained gradients of 6-12% that test even the most experienced riders. The Maratona dles Dolomites is the region's flagship event, attracting ~9,000 participants each July. This gran fondo covers a grueling 138 km course through Alta Badia, starting in La Villa and finishing in Corvara. The area also hosts the Sellaronda Bike Day and Dolomites Bike Day, where roads are closed to motorized traffic.

On a rest day, cyclists can explore the village of La Villa, birthplace of the legendary Maria Canins, two-time Tour de France Féminin winner. For active recovery, a gentle walk around the perimeter of Lake Misurina provides a peaceful contrast to the high-mountain efforts.

• Cycling events in the Dolomites

  Experience the Sellaronda Bike Day, where major passes close to traffic, giving exclusive access to cyclists.

• Accessible alpine adventure

  The Dolomites are easily reachable by car or a combination of train and shuttle services, with well-connected routes leading directly to the region's premier cycling hotspots.

• Well-maintained mountain roads

  Cyclists benefit from roads kept in top condition, thanks to their use in the Giro d'Italia.

• Challenging high-altitude passes

  Tackle the famous Sella Ronda loop, featuring multiple high-altitude passes good for endurance training.

The best time to visit the Dolomites for cycling is from June to October, when the mountain passes are free of snow and open to cyclists. During this period, several cycling events take place, creating an appealing time for avid cyclists. In June, the Sellaronda Bike Day and Dolomites Bike Day present distinct opportunities to ride on car-free roads, allowing cyclists to fully enjoy the striking mountain scenery without traffic concerns. These events are non-competitive and free, fostering a relaxed atmosphere for cyclists of all levels.

July is particularly attractive for those seeking a more challenging experience, as it hosts the Maratona dles Dolomites. This gran fondo attracts cyclists from various countries, presenting a demanding route with significant elevation gain over multiple passes. However, this is also peak season, so expect larger crowds and a lively atmosphere. In contrast, visiting in September gives a quieter experience while still benefiting from the pleasant weather and the second edition of the Sellaronda Bike Day, good for those who prefer fewer crowds.