Dolomites Cycling Holidays: Supported Self-Guided Bike Tours
Ride the Pale Mountains Like a Pro
Framed by towering peaks that soar to 3,000 metres and stitched with perfectly surfaced tarmac, the Italian Dolomites are a playground for road cycling enthusiasts who think in hairpins and espresso shots. This UNESCO World Heritage Site strings together legendary alpine passes—Passo Sella, Passo Pordoi, Gardena, Campolongo, Passo Giau, Fedaia and Tre Cime di Lavaredo—into unforgettable cycling routes you'll replay for years.
Whether you're planning a cycling holiday in the Dolomites for the first time or returning to conquer new ascents, these mountains in North Italy deliver scenery that rivals anywhere in the Alps. From lush green valleys dotted with alpine pastures to dramatic limestone peaks that glow at sunset, every ride here feels like pedaling through a postcard.
Must-Ride Passes & Loops in the Dolomites
Sellaronda
The four-pass classic loop from Corvara in either direction offers quiet mornings and epic views across South Tyrol and Alto Adige. Riding the Sellaronda circuit is a bucket-list experience for every cyclist, combining legendary climbs like Passo Sella and Passo Gardena into one unforgettable day of cycling in the Dolomites. This iconic route takes you through Val di Fassa and showcases some of the best cycling routes in the Italian Alps.
Passo Giau
Known as the photographer's pass with honest gradients and a reward-packed summit, this climb offers relentless switchbacks and sweeping scenery that define high-mountain road cycling in Italy. The ascent from the valley floor delivers fantastic views at your own pace.
Passo Pordoi
Long, rhythmic climbing leads to a monument honoring Il Campionissimo. As the most frequently featured Dolomite climb in the Giro d'Italia, this pass is a must-ride for cyclists seeking both history and high-altitude endurance on two wheels. The course rewards persistence with amazing panoramas.
Tre Cime di Lavaredo
This short, savage finale delivers cinema-worthy panoramas. Among the steepest routes in the Dolomites, it rewards cyclists with views that rank among the most dramatic landscapes in all of Italy—an ascent you'll discover is worth every pedal stroke.
Our Dolomites Bike Tours
How Our Dolomites Cycling Holidays Work
Supported self-guided = your own pace, your group, with pro backup.
Our cycling tours combine freedom with professional support. Expect daily route briefings, multiple GPX options loaded in the CyclingHero Companion App, on-route vehicle support (at least one sweep), live van tracking and help with bike setup. Whether you're travelling solo or booking as a group, you ride at your own pace on cycling routes designed for diverse fitness levels.
Airport transfers from Venice Marco Polo Airport or Milan Malpensa Airport (and Treviso), luggage moves between towns and breakfasts are included. Handpicked boutique hotel stays in locations like La Villa and Corvara keep legs fresh. Bring your own bike (we'll store the box) or choose bike hire from our premium Basso fleet—including e-bikes with climbing gears for those planning a more relaxed cycling holiday.
Legends, Culture & Rest-Day Gems
Between summit bids on the best cycling routes in the Dolomites, discover Ladin heritage woven into the fabric of South Tyrol and Alto Adige, explore WWI open-air sites on Lagazuoi where history meets the mountains, visit the Messner "Museum in the Clouds," and soak in café life in charming towns like Corvara and Cortina. Rest days offer the chance to stand back and appreciate the scenery, or cross into Austria for a change of pace.
Refuel with authentic Italian food—plates of speck, canederli and strudel that make every cycling holiday in the Dolomites a feast for both legs and appetite. The local cuisine is as fantastic as the peaks themselves.
Best Season for Holidays in the Dolomites
The Dolomites sit high in the Italian Alps, where altitude shapes everything—from crisp mornings to dramatic light that shifts across 3,000-metre peaks. Timing your cycling holiday here can make the difference between legendary and grueling.
Best months for cycling in the Dolomites: June–July and September–early October offer open passes, crisp mornings, and ideal climbing temperatures around 15–25°C. The summer season (August) brings more traffic on popular cycling routes and afternoon storms, while May and late October can see snow lingering on higher routes. Even in summer, expect cool evenings and pack a light shell for alpine descents heading down into the valley.
Winter transforms these mountains into a snow-covered wonderland—beautiful to admire from hotel windows, but not for road cycling. For planning your cycling holiday, advance booking during peak summer season ensures the best hotel availability and prices.
Signature Car-Free Cycling Events
Sellaronda Bike Day – Spring (June) – Experience one of Europe's most iconic cycling routes without a single car in sight. The legendary circuit of Sella, Pordoi, Campolongo and Gardena closes entirely to traffic, creating a festival atmosphere of pure cycling energy across 1,800 m of climbing and panoramic scenery in the Italian Dolomites. Book online in advance for this popular event.
Dolomites Bike Day (June) – A relaxed, scenic celebration linking historic passes between Alta Badia, Cortina d'Ampezzo and the Falzarego area during the summer season. Families, club cyclists and pros share perfectly surfaced bike paths beneath towering peaks—proof that cycling holidays in the Dolomites are as much about freedom as fitness. Two wheels, amazing landscapes, and thousands of fellow enthusiasts.
Maratona dles Dolomites (July) – The pinnacle of Dolomites cycling events, drawing thousands from across the world to conquer seven legendary passes and 3,000+ m of climbing. Our premium packages include early registration, warm-up rides on the actual Maratona course, and pro-level mechanical support to help you perform your best on race day. This is cycling in the Italian Alps at its most epic.
Sellaronda Bike Day – Fall (September) – The autumn edition offers cooler weather, golden larch forests around alpine pastures, and fewer crowds—turning the same revered Sella Ronda into a more tranquil, equally breathtaking ride. Perfect for those seeking a quieter, late-season cycling holiday in the Dolomites.
Dolomites Cycling Tours FAQ
Where exactly is the tour and what will we see?+
We ride We ride the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Dolomites—Corvara/Alta Badia, Val Gardena, Val di Fassa and Cortina—linking the Sella Ronda with icons like Pordoi, Giau, Fedaia and Tre Cime. These cycling routes showcase the best scenery in South Tyrol and Alto Adige. Start with the region hub to discover specific destinations.
How many days is the tour?+
Typical Dolomites cycling tours run 5–9 days. See our evergreen line-up on All Bike Tours or pick a themed week like Dolomites Bike Day or Maratona – Build Up. Planning your cycling holiday is flexible based on available flights and your schedule.
How challenging is the ride?+
Cycling routes range from Pretty Tame to Very Climby with multiple daily options. You ride at your own pace, whether solo or in a group. Read the format on How We Ride and check the levels on our FAQ. E-bikes are available for those wanting a more relaxed cycling holiday experience.
How many kilometers and meters of climbing per day?+
Expect ~40–120 km and ~500–2,500 m of ascent depending on your chosen cycling route option. Each course is designed for different fitness levels. Tour pages show daily profiles: bike-tours.
Where will we stay during our cycling holiday?+
Boutique, cyclist-friendly hotel accommodations in prime locations like La Villa, Corvara, and other charming towns, with secure bike storage and hearty breakfasts featuring Italian food. More on Accommodations. These destinations offer fantastic scenery and easy access to the best cycling routes.
Are meals included?+
Breakfasts are included; lunches are at scenic cafés serving Italian food; dinners vary by itinerary—check Inclusions on each tour (e.g., Dolomites Bike Day). Rest days offer opportunities to discover local culinary traditions.
Can I bring my own bike?+
Yes. We’ll help with setup and store your bike box for the entire duration of your trip. Details in FAQ and How We Ride. Many cyclists prefer riding their own bike on Dolomites cycling holidays.
Can I rent a bike?+
Yes—premium Basso road/gravel/e-bikes; ara available for rent; we can fit SPD-SL or Look KEO pedals at no extra charge. E-bikes are popular for those wanting to conquer the mountains at a more relaxed pace. See FAQ for booking details and prices.
How do I get to the start point?+
Fly to Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE), Treviso (TSF), or Verona Airport (VRN)—airport transfers are included to/from the pick-up hotel. Full overview on How We Ride and FAQ. Planning your flights in advance during the summer season is recommended.
What’s your cancellation policy?+
≥60 days: balance minus deposit refunded. 60–15 days: credit valid for two years. <15 days: no credit. Special events may differ—see Terms & Conditions. We understand that planning a cycling holiday requires flexibility, so book online with confidence.
Is April too early for the Dolomites?+
Yes, April is generally too early for cycling holidays in the Dolomites. High mountain passes typically remain closed due to snow until late May or early June, and weather in the valley can be unpredictable with cold temperatures and rain. The official cycling season in South Tyrol and Alto Adige begins in June when passes open and temperatures become suitable for road cycling at altitude.
How hard is the Stelvio pass?+
Passo dello Stelvio is one of the most challenging climbs in the Italian Alps. From Bormio, the ascent covers 21.5 km with 1,533 m of climbing at an average gradient of 7.1%, featuring 48 legendary hairpins. While the gradient is consistent rather than brutal, the length and altitude (2,758 m summit) make it demanding. Cyclists with solid climbing experience and proper acclimatization will conquer this iconic Giro d'Italia climb, though it's not recommended as a first alpine pass.
Where to bike in Dolomites?+
The best cycling routes in the Dolomites center around Alta Badia (Corvara, La Villa), Val Gardena, Cortina d'Ampezzo, and Val di Fassa. Key destinations include the Sella Ronda circuit linking four passes, Passo Giau from Cortina, Passo Pordoi from either side, and Tre Cime di Lavaredo. These towns offer excellent hotel accommodations, bike hire facilities, and access to both valley rides and high mountain passes. Our cycling tours are based in Corvara for optimal access to the region's most iconic climbs.
Are Dolomites for beginners?+
The Dolomites offer cycling routes for various fitness levels, though the region is primarily suited for intermediate to advanced cyclists. Beginners can enjoy valley rides through lush green valleys and shorter climbs at their own pace, especially with e-bikes available. However, iconic passes like Passo Giau, Passo Pordoi, and the full Sella Ronda require reasonable climbing fitness. Our supported cycling holidays provide multiple daily route options, so less experienced cyclists can build gradually while more advanced group members tackle the epic climbs.
Is it possible to do Dolomites without a car?+
Absolutely. Our supported-self-guided cycling holidays eliminate the need for a car entirely. We provide airport transfers from Venice Marco Polo Airport, Treviso, or Milan Malpensa Airport, handle all luggage moves between hotel destinations, and offer on-route vehicle support. You'll stay in cyclist-friendly towns like Corvara and La Villa where everything is walkable, and your bike becomes your primary transport for exploring the best cycling routes. Public buses also connect major towns in South Tyrol during the summer season, though our full support package makes planning effortless.
Do the Dolomites get crowded?+
The Dolomites can get busy during peak summer season (July–August), particularly on famous passes like Passo Pordoi and the Sella Ronda, and in popular towns like Cortina. However, early morning rides offer quieter cycling routes, and our local knowledge helps you discover less-trafficked alternatives. June, September and early October provide fantastic weather with fewer crowds—ideal for cyclists seeking a more tranquil cycling holiday. Special car-free events like Sellaronda Bike Day and Dolomites Bike Day eliminate traffic entirely, creating an amazing atmosphere on normally busy bike paths.
Trip Summary: Dolomites Cycling Holiday Experience
CyclingHero’s Dolomites page is your launchpad for a bucket-list cycling holiday in the Italian Alps, built for riders who dream in hairpins and want pro-level logistics without the rigid peloton vibe. Based around Alta Badia, Val Gardena and Cortina d’Ampezzo, our supported self-guided bike tours link the region’s most iconic climbs—Sellaronda (Sella, Pordoi, Gardena, Campolongo), Passo Giau, Passo Fedaia (Marmolada) and Tre Cime di Lavaredo—so you can chase Giro-famous scenery on perfectly surfaced roads with 360° Dolomite views.
Expect daily route choices from ~40–120 km and 500–2,500 m of climbing, graded from “Pretty Tame” to “Very Climby,” with e-road upgrades if you want a little assist. You ride at your pace with pre-loaded GPX on the CyclingHero Companion App (and, on select tours, a Hammerhead Karoo-2), live van tracking and instant support; we handle airport transfers (typically Venice or Treviso), luggage moves between hotels, and on-route mechanical help—so the only thing you carry up the next pass is your cadence.
Handpicked, cyclist-friendly hotels (often family-run and centrally located) set you up with secure bike storage, hearty breakfasts and recovery-friendly amenities; lunches are at our favourite cafés, and the support van is stocked with hydration and ride snacks. Bring your own bike (we’ll store your box and help with setup) or rent a premium Basso road or e-road with the right climbing gears; we can fit SPD-SL or Look KEO pedals on request.
Non-riding partners can hike among the Dolomites’ peaks, discover Ladin traditions, visit WWI open-air museums and Messner’s “Museum in the Clouds,” ride cable cars for stunning views, or simply relax in the spa and savor local cuisine.
Prime season runs June, July, September and early October, with cooler mornings and the occasional alpine squall—pack a light shell, gilet and warmers even in midsummer.
Why book your Dolomites cycling holiday with CyclingHero? You get the freedom of a self-guided adventure at your own pace plus the safety net of a pro crew, local knowledge that strings together quieter bike paths and espresso stops, and rider-friendly policies with clear prices, inclusions and a flexible cancellation framework. Our planning team handles logistics so you can focus on conquering the next ascent. Book online or request info—we'll handle the details so you can discover why cycling in the Italian Dolomites ranks among the world's best mountain experiences.
CyclingHero’s Dolomites page is your launchpad for a bucket-list cycling holiday in the Italian Alps, built for riders who dream in hairpins and want pro-level logistics without the rigid peloton vibe. Based around Alta Badia, Val Gardena and Cortina d’Ampezzo, our supported self-guided bike tours link the region’s most iconic climbs—Sellaronda (Sella, Pordoi, Gardena, Campolongo), Passo Giau, Passo Fedaia (Marmolada) and Tre Cime di Lavaredo—so you can chase Giro-famous scenery on perfectly surfaced roads with 360° Dolomite views.
Featured Cycling Tours in Dolomites
Maratona dles Dolomites-Enel 2026 - Build to the Maratona - 6 Days
Sharpen the legs, nail the granfondo. Train and ride in the Dolomites with guaranteed entry to Italy's most iconic cycling event. The Maratona dles Dolomites-Enel is one of Europe's premier granfondos, attracting thousands of cyclists annually to the dramatic mountains of the Italian Dolomites. This six-day self-guided cycling holiday includes guaranteed event entry, comprehensive preparation rides, and regional exploration with premium logistical support.
Based in Corvara, a traditional South Tyrolean village near the event finish line, the itinerary includes five days of acclimatization riding before the main event. Daily cycling route options accommodate different fitness levels and allow you to ride at your own pace—from gentle valley rides through the Armentarola region to challenging climbs over Passo Giau, Passo Falzarego, and Passo Valparola.
The cycling tour also features the renowned Sellaronda circuit, widely regarded as one of the best cycling routes in the world, exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites. Route options are designed to build familiarity with local terrain and altitude conditions. All rides feature multiple difficulty options, allowing individuals and groups to tailor their cycling holiday experience based on current fitness levels and daily preferences.
On event day, cyclists start with a short descent to La Villa for the official Maratona start. The course structure allows participants to choose their distance commitment during the ride itself, with the first Sellaronda loop common to all options—a true test of planning and endurance.
The package includes boutique hotel accommodation in towns with fantastic scenery, pre-planned GPS cycling routes, airport transfers from Venice Marco Polo Airport or Treviso, luggage support, and expert advice for booking your cycling holiday in the Italian Alps.
Sharpen the legs, nail the granfondo. Train and ride in the Dolomites with guaranteed entry to Italy's most iconic cycling event. The Maratona dles Dolomites-Enel is one of Europe's premier granfondos, attracting thousands of cyclists annually to the dramatic mountains of the Italian Dolomites. This six-day self-guided cycling holiday includes guaranteed event entry, comprehensive preparation rides, and regional exploration with premium logistical support.
Maratona dles Dolomites-Enel 2026 - Road to the Stelvio - 9 Days
Dolomites's premier granfondo plus Passo dello Stelvio, King of switchbacks. This nine-day self-guided cycling holiday in Italy combines the Maratona dles Dolomites granfondo with legendary alpine climbs across the Italian Alps. Based first in Corvara, cyclists prepare with acclimatization rides on iconic Dolomite passes such as Campolongo, Gardena, Sella, and Giau before tackling the Maratona course itself.
After the event, the cycling tour continues west heading toward Bormio, where the challenge intensifies with Passo dello Stelvio and its 48 hairpins—the epic ascent featured in countless Giro d'Italia editions—plus the brutal Gavia, and the option to conquer the infamous Mortirolo climb. This is road cycling in the Italian mountains at its most demanding.
This itinerary blends event participation with a curated progression of bucket-list climbs, supported daily by expert guidance, multiple cycling route options, and full van assistance. Overnight stays in boutique hotel accommodations across Corvara, Merano, and Bormio ensure comfort and rest between rides. You'll cross through some of the most amazing landscapes in the Alps, from the rock spires of the Dolomites to the snow-capped peaks heading north and east.
Designed for ambitious cyclists and groups, the tour offers guaranteed entry to the Maratona, professional logistical support, and the rare chance to experience both the UNESCO World Heritage Site Dolomites and Italy's most historic Alpine passes on two wheels. From race-day adrenaline to the pilgrimage up the Stelvio, this is the ultimate self-guided cycling holiday. Check prices and book online in advance for this popular summer season adventure.
Dolomites's premier granfondo plus Passo dello Stelvio, King of switchbacks. This nine-day self-guided cycling holiday in Italy combines the Maratona dles Dolomites granfondo with legendary alpine climbs across the Italian Alps. Based first in Corvara, cyclists prepare with acclimatization rides on iconic Dolomite passes such as Campolongo, Gardena, Sella, and Giau before tackling the Maratona course itself.
Road to the Sellaronda Bike Day - Spring Classic - 5 Days
From the Prosecco Hills to the four-pass icon, closed to traffic. Experience the best of Northern Italy's cycling culture and landscapes on this five-day self-guided cycling holiday. This cycling tour begins among the rolling vineyards of the Prosecco Hills before bringing you into the heart-stopping scenery of the Dolomites—in time to join the famous, car-free Sellaronda Bike Day.
Set out from Treviso or Venice, warming up your legs with scenic rides through Veneto: gentle climbs through Collalto and Ca' del Poggio followed by sweeping views over piazze, charming towns, and wineries. Then it's off to the mountains—Corvara becomes your base as you ride Falzarego, Valparola, Fedaia, Sella, Gardena, and if you fancy a challenge, Giau and Pordoi. You'll discover why cycling in the Dolomites attracts enthusiasts from around the world.
On Bike Day you'll ride the Sella Ronda counter-clockwise with thousands of fellow cyclists on cycling routes closed to traffic until mid-day, rolling over passes like Gardena, Sella, Pordoi, and Campolongo. The atmosphere is fantastic—a true celebration of road cycling. Want more? Add on the extra climbs of Falzarego or Giau to conquer additional peaks at your own pace.
The package includes boutique hotel stays in destinations known for Italian food and hospitality, GPS navigation, luggage transfers between towns, airport shuttles from Venice Marco Polo Airport or Treviso, and multiple cycling route options each day to suit different fitness levels and group preferences. This self-guided cycling holiday in the Dolomites balances challenge and camaraderie, giving cyclists both Italian cultural immersion and the unforgettable spectacle of Sellaronda Bike Day 2026.
Whether you're chasing the epic views of the UNESCO World Heritage peaks, sampling the culture of Veneto and South Tyrol, or simply want to ride the Sellaronda among fellow cycling enthusiasts on car-free bike paths—this Spring Classic is your perfect blend of planning, adventure, and scenic riding through lush green valleys and towering rock faces.
From the Prosecco Hills to the four-pass icon, closed to traffic. Experience the best of Northern Italy's cycling culture and landscapes on this five-day self-guided cycling holiday. This cycling tour begins among the rolling vineyards of the Prosecco Hills before bringing you into the heart-stopping scenery of the Dolomites—in time to join the famous, car-free Sellaronda Bike Day.
Road to the Dolomites Bike Day - 5 Days
Prosecco Hills warm-up, car-free bliss and classic passes. This five-day self-guided cycling holiday in Northern Italy blends the rolling Prosecco Hills with the legendary mountain passes of the Dolomites. Starting near Treviso, cyclists warm up on quiet cycling routes through historic towns and villages, past castles and vineyards, before moving into alpine terrain where the real ascent begins.
Highlights include climbs like Falzarego, Gardena, Sella, Pordoi, and Campolongo, offering a progressive challenge as the mountains draw closer and the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic. You'll ride at your own pace through lush green valleys dotted with alpine pastures before heading up to the towering peaks that define the Italian Alps.
The cycling tour culminates with participation in the Dolomites Bike Day, a unique celebration of cycling where roads across several iconic passes are closed to traffic, creating a festive, car-free atmosphere in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's amazing to share these bike paths with cyclists of all levels—from families on e-bikes to experienced groups tackling the full course.
Accommodations include boutique hotels in Soligo and Corvara with secure bike storage and rest-friendly amenities, GPS cycling routes, luggage transfers between destinations, and airport transfers from Venice Marco Polo Airport and Treviso for easy booking and access. Daily route options match different fitness levels, with weather briefings and planning support included.
Perfect for cyclists seeking both cultural immersion and a self-guided high-mountain cycling holiday in Italy, this itinerary delivers the best cycling routes in the Dolomites plus the unforgettable atmosphere of Dolomites Bike Day 2026. Discover why thousands choose this event each summer season for their Italian cycling adventure. Check prices and book online to stand among the peaks on two wheels.
Prosecco Hills warm-up, car-free bliss and classic passes. This five-day self-guided cycling holiday in Northern Italy blends the rolling Prosecco Hills with the legendary mountain passes of the Dolomites. Starting near Treviso, cyclists warm up on quiet cycling routes through historic towns and villages, past castles and vineyards, before moving into alpine terrain where the real ascent begins.
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