Cinghiale has a long tradition of riding in the high mountains of Northern Italy. Andy raced over most of the passes there and we love to return to take in the glory of the challenging terrain. When two of our guests asked us to put together a tour of their favorite mountain rides for a group of friends we were delighted to head back north. First we’ll hit the Dolomites for our favorite passes and then we'll head east into the Carnic Alps. The journey east is well worth it for the quiet roads and forested scenery.
There are four spaces available for this tour!
WHERE WE STAY
We will base out of San Cassiano to explore the passes in the Dolomites. San Cassiano is a picturesque mountain village and has the bonus of being part way up Passo Valparola. Our transfer east will take us to Ravascletto in the heart of the Carnic Alps. This tiny mountain village sits at the base of some monster climbs and has access to some more reasonable terrain as well.
GEARED FOR
We don’t sugarcoat the fact that this is some stiff riding—experienced riders only, please. Our routes will tackle some of the longest and toughest climbs in the world with very technical descents. Participants should be fit enough to ride multiple passes and long distances in one day, conserving enough energy to descend safely and meet up for drinks back at the hotel.
This is a four-pig tour, the most difficult rating we offer. Please read our fitness check to make sure this is the right tour for you.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
This tour is inspired by two guests that have spent the past 10+years riding with us on our mountain tours. They’ve sent in their wishlist rides and we are ready to make it happen.
These northern Italian routes offer long, demanding climbs and blissful descents, through forested passes with towering limestone crags looming over the dozens of switchbacks we pedal. Culturally we will experience old-school Austria/Italy in mountain villages that thrive on winter and summer tourism.
The Dolomites have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, and for good reason. They are some of the most spectacular mountains we’ve ever seen. They also straddle the line of over-tourism and we will notice the crowds and also be a part of them. This makes the cycling there a little tricker in certain areas where vehicles of all kinds are trying to pass cyclists and pedestrians as they make their way up and down the passes.
For our safety and to be seen in tunnels we require all cyclists to have a well functioning front and rear light on their bike every day.
TRAVEL DETAILS
This tour will begin and end from Venice, Italy.
Our shuttle will leave from the Antony Palace hotel on Sunday, September 1 at 9:00 a.m.
We will end the tour with transportation to Antony Palace hotel on Sunday, September 8 departing Ravascletto at 10:00 a.m.. This evening stay is included in the cost of the tour and will be reserved for you.
Flights home or onward travel should be made for the afternoon of Sept 9th or after.
INCLUDED IN TOUR
8 nights of accommodation, including all breakfasts
7 dinners, 7 lunches
Fully supported riding with expert guides, mechanic support, follow vehicle
Food and drinks on rides
TOUR DETAILS
7 riding days, 8 nights, fly home on the 9th day
Transportation from and to Venice
Single room supplement of $500, please indicate on booking form
Deposit of $1,000 is requested upon booking confirmation
Balance of $3,500/$4,000 with single supplement due by June 1, 2024
Weather: It’s hard to predict these days but daytime temps range between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, but there is always the possibility of harsh weather, especially at the summits, and cool temperatures in the evening.
Limited bike rentals available
Laundry services
Install lower gears and spin your legs. Your knees just thanked you.
