Mountain Biking
One of the best ways to explore the Dolomites is by mountain bike. High passes followed by lush, green valleys create dramatic ascents and descents that make for exhilarating bicycling and sightseeing alike. Daily excursions are limitless – from steep grades over passes to fire roads set in the valleys between – and you’ll likely never ride the same trail twice. Whether you prefer easy mountain biking on gravel or fire roads, or challenging yourself on an exposed single track, Dolomite Mountains has itineraries for mountain bikers of all abilities and interests.
Mountain biking trails range from 1,500 and 2,700 meters / 5,000 and 9,000 feet of elevation, a bit higher than our road biking itineraries. Easier biking trips will be on wide, forgiving fire roads at lower elevations, or use chairlifts to reach greater heights, but then see little or no elevation change, while more difficult trips will increasingly see steeper ascents and descents on exposed single track trails, with climbs over high passes included in the itinerary.
Sorry, by definition, there are no “easy” mountain biking trips!
Our easy to moderate trips are great for people who want to see the Dolomites at a relatively relaxed pace, yet still want to feel like they got some exercise, and for families with children. Mountain bike rides last from 2-4 hours, with plenty of free time for other exploration. Rides can cover up to 8-30 kilometers / 5-20 miles per day, with ascents and descents of up to 450 meters / 1,500 feet, or more. Mountain biking terrain can be on a variety of surfaces, but is usually on wide, forgiving fire roads. The pace is leisurely, with stops along the way at historic sites and villages. On most days, cycling activities are optional, and there are options for transfers via private or public transportation.
Moderate trips are active, with full days of hiking and other activities. These trips are perfect for people who want to be active, yet still have some time to explore the cultural and relaxation opportunities of the Dolomites in the afternoon. Mountain bike rides last from 4-6 hours, often with a stop for lunch. Rides cover 15-40 kilometers / 10-25 miles per day, with ascents and descents of 300-1,500 meters / 1,000-5,000 feet. Mountain biking terrain can range from wide, forgiving fire roads to gravely surfaces and single track trails. Moderate rides may include one or two steeper climbs, but there’s always a payoff: A spectacular vista anyone? Or exceptional cuisine for lunch? Or, best yet, both!?
Our moderate to challenging trips are demanding, with a whole lot of fun along the way. There will be no question in your mind whether you accomplished something at the end of each day! Mountain bike rides are up to 6 to 8 hours, lasting all day with a stop for lunch. Rides can cover up to 30-60 kilometers / 20-35 miles per day, with ascents and descents of up to 1,500-3,500 meters / 5,000-11,500 feet, or more. Mountain biking terrain can be on a variety of surfaces, including rugged single-track trails, uneven gravely surfaces, and are often steep. While the pace is not leisurely, it is always comfortable, and there are ample stops for water and snacks to keep you going.
Our challenging trips are exactly that – challenging! These trips are designed for guests in excellent physical condition, who have a strong spirit of adventure. Mountain bike rides range from 6 to 8 hours, lasting all day with a stop for lunch. While distance and elevation ranges are similar to moderate to challenging trips, trips are longer and the upper end of the range is tackled most days – you’ll have plenty of opportunities to push yourself on these trips! Rides range from 30-60 kilometers / 20-35 miles every day, with ascents and descents of 1,500-3,500 meters / 5,000-11,500 feet, or more. Mountain biking terrain can be on a variety of surfaces, including rugged single-track trails, uneven gravely surfaces, and are often steep, with steep drop-offs below. While the pace is not leisurely, it is always comfortable, and there are stops for water and snacks to keep you going.
