ALPS TO ADRIATIC
ITALY — Legendary Dolomite Passes
AUSTRIA — Hidden Alpine Valleys & Lakes
SLOVENIA — Julian Alps, Vineyards & the Adriatic
2027 DATES TBC
Cross three countries and two great mountain ranges on an unforgettable cycling journey from the legendary Dolomites to the Adriatic Sea. Ride Italy’s iconic mountain passes, discover Austria’s hidden valleys and lakes, conquer Slovenia’s spectacular Julian Alps, then descend through vineyard-covered hills and medieval villages to finish beside the sparkling waters of Piran.
This tour at a glance
Dates
2027 TBC
Start: Cortina d’Ampezzo - Italy
Finish: Piran - Slovenia (Transfers to Trieste / Ljubljana)
Difficulty
Moderate
This Tour is a varied itinerary with mountain riding as well as easier days along river valleys and through rolling wine regions. You need to have a good level of fitness to tackle the bigger days with 1500-2000m vertical in the Dolomites & Julian Alps.
Duration
13 nights,
All hotels
Pricing
$TBC AUD (Twin/Dbl share)
$TBC single supplement
Details
Cross three spectacular countries on one unforgettable Alpine adventure. Beginning in the legendary Dolomites of northern Italy, this remarkable journey takes you through the hidden mountain landscapes of Austria's East Tyrol and Carinthian lakes before crossing into Slovenia's breathtaking Julian Alps, emerald Soča Valley and renowned wine regions. Conquer iconic mountain passes, discover charming alpine villages, enjoy world-class food and wine, and celebrate your journey on the sparkling Adriatic coast in the beautiful Venetian harbour town of Piran. This is the ultimate ride for cyclists seeking a perfect blend of legendary climbs, stunning scenery, authentic cultures and unforgettable culinary experiences.
Terrain
A rewarding tour through alpine and rolling wine-country landscapes. Expect a good level of fitness to comfortably enjoy consecutive days of riding, including several iconic mountain climbs in the Dolomites and Julian Alps, balanced with scenic valley rides and gentler stages through Slovenia's vineyards to the Adriatic.
Food & Wine
This journey is as much about exceptional food and wine as it is unforgettable cycling. Savour the distinctive flavours of the Dolomites, from handmade beetroot ravioli, speck, mountain cheeses and apple strudel to Austrian favourites including hearty Tyrolean dumplings, schnitzel and locally brewed beers enjoyed in traditional alpine inns. Crossing into Slovenia, discover the boutique wineries of Goriška Brda and the Vipava Valley, sampling indigenous wines such as Rebula, Zelen and Pinela alongside Karst prosciutto, artisan cheeses and exceptional local olive oils. Our journey concludes with a memorable seafood feast and local wines overlooking the Adriatic in the enchanting harbour town of Piran.
Total Distance ~800km with options for more/less
Average Daily Distance 80km average per day. Options for more/less.
Average Daily Altitude 1000m per day with options for more/less
Loop/Rest Days: 4 (Cortina, Lienz, Bovec and Goriška Brda). Optional rides or opportunity to explore these beautiful regions off bike.
Bikes Bring your own. E-bikes welcome. Hire available (email us).
Group Size Small to medium.
Accomodation Hotels & local guesthouses - mostly 3 star.
Meals 13 breakfasts, 7 afternoon teas, 7 group meals.
Start - Cortina d’Ampezzo Meet in Cortina - in northern Italy’s Dolomites. Easily accessible on a direct bus (that takes bikes) from Venice airport.
Finish - Piran, Slovenia Our tour concludes in the beautiful coastal town of Piran. Transfers to Trieste / Ljubljana / Venice available which offer a range of onward travel via train or air. International flights to Australia are available from Ljubljana and Venice.
Travel Support Contact us if you would like ideas/suggestions on how to travel to the start/finish of this tour or to talk to our preferred travel agent.
Exclusions Your bike & spare parts, travel to start/finish hotel, alcoholic & specialty beverages not included in group meals, other breakfasts/lunches/dinners not included in the Tour
Detailed tour info, inclusions/exclusions: Email us for a copy of our Tour Information PDF.
Have a question that isn’t answered here? Contact us.
Tour Highlights
Meet in the iconic mountain town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, nestled in the heart of Italy's spectacular Northern Dolomites. Settle into your hotel before tackling two of cycling's most legendary climbs – the breathtaking Passo Giau and the optional ascent of the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo. As the sun sets, join your fellow riders for Aperol spritz in Cortina's elegant piazzas before a welcome dinner showcasing the flavours of the Dolomites, including the region's renowned beetroot ravioli.
Enjoy a spectacular downhill ride along the Drauradweg, following the Drau River from Italy into Austria. We spend two nights in the charming alpine town of Lienz, surrounded by the dramatic Lienz Dolomites. Challenge yourself with an optional mountain climb, or enjoy a more leisurely day exploring Lienz's colourful old town, browsing boutique shops and cafés, visiting the medieval Schloss Bruck, or taking the gondola (or ride!) to Zettersfeld for breathtaking panoramic views.
Discover the spectacular Julian Alps, conquering two of Slovenia's most iconic climbs – the breathtaking Mangart Saddle, the highest paved road in the country, and the legendary Vršič Pass. We'll spend two nights in the charming alpine town of Bovec, with time to choose an unforgettable ride or simply relax and soak up the mountain atmosphere. For outdoor enthusiasts there is also opportunities for off bike activities including rafting and mountain hikes.
Leave the high Alps behind as we cycle through Slovenia's renowned wine regions of Goriška Brda and the Vipava Valley, where rolling vineyards, medieval villages and exceptional local cuisine await. Crossing the limestone landscapes of the Karst Plateau, we finish our unforgettable Alps-to-Adriatic journey in the beautiful Venetian harbour town of Piran, celebrating with fresh seafood and a sunset over the Adriatic.
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