Self-guided cycling
6 nights,
single centre
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
Headwater
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It's no surprise that Lake Garda is northern Italy's most popular destination. Full of beauty and history, lush green hills frame the clear waters as each point around the lake has its own unique character and charm.
We have chosen the southern tip of the lake as our base, perched on the edge of the Mincio River. Our routes take you through diverse landscapes and towns around Lake Garda and along the river, on both the Lombardy and Veneto sides of the water. Cycle through vineyards, medieval towns, and along the famous Sirmione peninsula with its ancient castle.
There's plenty to see along the way as you can visit UNESCO Heritage sites, Roman ruins, and of course, relax lakeside. There are also opportunities to sample the local wines in Bardolino and Valpolicella, regarded as some of the country's finest reds.
The routes are a mix of cycle paths, quiet roads and short gravel sections, through vineyards and small hamlets.
After arriving on Lake Garda, enjoy an afternoon at leisure exploring the shores of Mincio River or Lake Garda.
You stay at Borgo Stazione.
Pool
WiFi
TV
Safe
Tea/coffee
This unique hotel has been transformed from an old rail station and is separated into several buildings, or 'wagons', with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool in the middle. Guests can also enjoy the sauna and Turkish baths with a relaxation area offering aromatised water. There is a lovely garden, meditation terrace, bike room, and laundry room available to all guests. The Littorina del Mincio restaurant serves delicious local dishes to enjoy inside or on their terrace; they also provide takeaways should you want to enjoy your meal on the waterfront.
Room upgrades and extra nights: Contact us for details.
Beginning along the Mincio River, your ride takes you around the Veneto side of Lake Garda to Lazise. One of the most picturesque towns of Lake Garda, we recommend exploring the medieval historical centre and colourful harbour before continuing your ride to Bardolino. Nestled at the foot of the Morainic Hill, Bardolino is celebrated for its oil and wine production. You can arrange a local wine tasting before following the waters edge into Garda. Here, you take the ferry to Sirmione and continue on back to your hotel.
A lovely ride which takes you to the beautiful Valpolicella Vineyards. There are more opportunities for you to arrange a local tasting here to sample the Valpolicella Classico, regarded as some of the country's finest reds. Circle around the vineyards before returning back to your hotel along the same route.
Today is a circular route, first in the Lombardy region before crossing into Veneto and reaching Borghetto. This is a delightful village with ancient mills and beautiful waterside paths. You'll soon arrive in Valeggio, a peaceful town surrounded by the green Morainic hills with stunning views. Take some time here to visit the magnificent hilltop castle and public park 'Parco Sigurta', recognised as one of Italy's best parks with a rich variety of fauna.
Begin your ride crossing over Mincio River, following the riverside path up to Peschiera del Garda. This historic town is full of UNESCO Heritage sites, canals, bridges and Roman ruins - certainly worth exploring! Continue to Sirmione, one of the most popular areas of Lake Garda with thousands of visitors attracted by the picturesque peninsula and its aquamarine water. Discover the ancient Scaligero castle, tour historical sites, and wander the colourful alleyways before returning to your hotel.
Heading south, today takes you through lovely landscapes past Valeggio and to the impressive Scaligero castle (another one!). Join the path alongside the Mincio River, crossing over the landmark bridge Ponte dei Mulini. You can shorten the route by taking a bus back to your hotel from Mantua, or you can continue alongside the opposite side of the river back to your hotel.
Whichever you choose, Mantua is a fascinating city protected by lakes and anchored by UNESCO listed Renaissance architecture. Visit the 15th century Basilica di Sant'Andrea which took over 300 years to complete! The Rotonda di San Lorenzo is the most ancient church in Mantua. This unique rotunda was originally dedicated to the Goddess Venus - we highly recommend a visit.
After breakfast, leave the beautiful Lake Garda behind.
Show prices including flights and onward rail?
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £416.
These flight inclusive prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £416.
Our aim is to provide holidays that are unbeatable for choice and flexibility. We've listed our most popular travel options below, however you aren't limited to these - we can tailor-make virtually any holiday to suit.
Air-rail prices include our standard flights and onward rail
Out: British Airways London Gatwick to Verona, taxi to Borgo Stazione Bike Inn, Peschiera del Garda (paid locally - approx. 20mins).
Return: Taxi from Borgo Stazione Bike Inn, Peschiera del Garda to Verona airport (paid locally, approx. 20mins), then British Airways Verona to London Gatwick.
Extra legroom seats are available on request.
Alternative Air Travel
Alternative flights, onward rail to your holiday area, and connecting private transfers can be arranged from most UK airports. If you would like to use one of the many 'low cost' airlines, we can book these on your behalf. We can also book UK shuttles to connect with your onward flight, please call for details and prices.
Alternative transfers
If you require alternative transfers (because you will be arriving at a different time to our standard flights), then we can usually arrange these for you (there may be an additional charge).
To find out more about the travel options available call our sales team on 01606 720199, use our live webchat (we're open from 9am today) or email sales@headwater.com
Should you require overnight airport accommodation, airport parking or even a uniformed chauffeur to take your car from your departure terminal and park it for you, we can arrange this for you through Holiday Extras. You can book airport parking, airport hotels and executive lounges through their website or contact us for further details. Early booking is recommended to obtain the best availability and prices.
Self-guided cycling
6 nights,
single centre
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
Headwater
Navigation App
