The area of Bolzano and environs runs from the Sarn Valley via Bozen/Bolzano, past Lake Kaltern and down to Salorno where the valley narrows. The region is characterised by apple trees, extensive vineyards and shaded mixed woodlands, an undulating landscape that is perfect for cycling. The busy regional capital is surrounded by blue-green swimming lakes and unspoilt trails. Down in the valley can be found mild early-spring temperatures to tempt cyclists into the saddle, always with the possibility of a stopover in a historic wine village. Three cable cars around Bozen/Bolzano whisk cyclists upwards, an easy way to reach the higher ground.

Leisure cyclists can follow the gentle Etsch Valley cycle way southwards and if desired combine their trip with wine tasting, while more testing routes await mountain bikers in the Sarntal Valley, on the Tschögglberg mountain, on the Ritten plateau and through the forests of the Mitterberg. And, if all this is not enough, there is Mike’s Bike Park in Sarentino to try out. Outstanding tours by road bike are possible in the Unterland and Überetsch areas, to Mezzocorona, through the Val di Fiemme or via winding roads up to the Mendel and Gampen passes. There is no shortage of cycling fun to be had in and around Bozen/Bolzano!

Biking in Bolzano and environs
Biking in Bolzano and environs

Reasons for cycling in South Tyrol

  • Long cycling season from February/March to October/November
  • All types of cycling possible, from leisurely tours to mountain biking and road racing
  • Numerous regional attractions: Castelfeder, “Stoanerne Mandeln” standing stones, Ritten earth pyramids