Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
Flights
available
18.0Kg CO2e
Navigation App
Optional
e-bike hire
Book Early and Save 10%. T&Cs Apply
The journey from the Dolomites to Venice covers the regions of South Tyrol and Veneto. Boasting 300 days of sunshine a year, South Tyrol is a timeless bilingual region at the crossroads of Italy and Austria where the jagged rock walls of the UNESCO Dolomites overlook deep green meadows; Veneto is a region rich in art cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and vineyards.
Pedalling on the old Dolomites narrow-gauge railway track from your starting point in the mountain range, you'll pass below the Tre Cime to the Olympic city of Cortina d'Ampezzo. The route continues through the valley of the ice cream makers in the Dolomite town of Belluno. From Bassano del Grappa you'll leave the mountains and enter the plains to discover some of the works of architect Andrea Palladio. Next stop is the fashion city of Treviso before finishing the tour in mainland Venice from where you can visit the 'Floating City'.
The first two days, you will predominantly follow the old Dolomites railway track. The remaining routes are gently undulating with 95% being paved. The paths generally keep to quieter, secondary roads although you should expect more traffic in the towns.
Arrive at your hotel in the Val Pusteria of the Dolomites.
You stay at Selected hotels.
Hotels, Dolomites to Venice
You will stay in a selection of 3 and 4 star hotels. The hotels are chosen for their excellent facilities and proximity to the relevant local sites as well as their welcoming hospitality. All rooms have en suite facilities.
Your cycle journey starts on the old Dolomites narrow-gauge railway track past Dobbiaco lake and the war cemetery. Enjoy fabulous mountain views, including to the Tre Cime before crossing from the region of South Tyrol to Veneto and arriving in the Olympic village of Cortina d'Ampezzo.
Continue on the old railway track with views of the Sorapis range to one side and the Cinque Torri (Five Towers) to the other. Stop for lunch in Pieve di Cadore, birthplace of Titian, before continuing through the valley of the ice-cream makers to Belluno.
Today you leave Belluno, capital of the province, and cycle across the foothills through a series of small villages on tree-lined avenues to Feltre. This historic hilltop town was completely rebuilt in the 16th Century having been destroyed in 1510 due to its allegiance with Venice.
Descend to the Brenta Valley and the plains to Bassano del Grappa, named from nearby Monte Grappa. Here you can visit the Poli Grappa museum, the Museo Civico and cross the famous wooden Ponte Vecchio, dedicated to the Alpini troops.
Cycle past villas designed by the renowned architect Palladio before stopping for a rest in Asolo, an elegant hilltop town with a charming historic centre. Continue along the plains to Treviso which is circled by a town wall and by waterways. In the centre you'll find a rambling maze of arcaded walkways and canals.
Finish your cycle route with a gentle ride along the River Sile to Venice mainland from where you can visit the 'Floating City'. Visit St Marks Square, the Doges Palace and the Rialto Bridge.
Leave Venice or ask us about booking extra nights to allow more time to visit.
If you'd like to extend your trip with extra hotel nights we recommend: Giulietta e Romeo, Verona; Hotel Kette, Venice.
The Giulietta e Romeo hotel, named after the town's most famous lovers, lies in a quiet side street just yards from the Arena. The hotel is fairly modern in style and very comfortable. There is a large lobby area, which leads onto the breakfast room, which is decorated in white with subtle lighting and art deco friezes on the windows.
The rooms are all carpeted and traditionally decorated in blue and red decor with cherry wood furniture. They are all en-suite and have double-glazing so there is little noise from the street. A couple of rooms even have the famous Juliet style balcony if you fancy a re-inaction!
Parents of under 10 year olds should be aware that some rooms at the Hotel Giulietta e Romeo have a balcony with a step up.
The Hotel Kette is set in the heart of Venice, a short distance from Teatro La Fenice, from via XXII marzo, the elegant shopping street, 2 minutes from piazza San Marco and only 10 minutes from Ponte di Rialto. So this is an excellent base for exploring the many delights Venice has in store.
The 63 en suite rooms are immaculately furnished and are fully worthy of the four-star rating.
It is possible to reserve a non-smoking room (please contact us and we will request this for you).
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £196.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Venice Marco Polo airport, with onward rail included. We can also provide transfers from the station to your hotel, please contact us for details and prices.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment. *Unfortunately, due to the airline themselves we are unable to book Ryanair.
Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
Flights
available
18.0Kg CO2e
Navigation App
Optional
e-bike hire