Current as of: September 21, 2024 - 00:57
Current as of: September 21, 2024 - 00:57
3 out of 7 - Moderate
Few landscapes in Europe match the beauty of the jagged limestone Dolomites. The route starts with incredible views of Trentino’s dramatic mountains, cycling on relatively easy roads and tracks along the Adige River. On reaching the northern shore of Lake Garda, the views of one of the most famous Italian lakes is unforgettable. A ferry cruise on the lake gives us the opportunity to take in these wonderful vistas before continuing the ride through the beautiful cities of Verona, Padova and finally the canals and waterways of Venice.
Highlights
This trip is classified as Road and Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
We use mainly quiet roads and cycle paths where possible, but at times we need to cross busy road sections to reach the quieter routes on the other side. Although there are no real steep climbs or technical difficulties, the route is undulating at times (Especially on days 4 & 5) and requires a reasonably good level of fitness.
A support vehicle (with limited seats) is available throughout the trip. It cannot follow the group at all times, but will meet you at the end of cycle paths and at junctions to give directions and allow access to any items you don’t wish to carry on the bike.
Normally seven to 16 plus leader. A cycling leader rides with the group at all times.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 7
Max group size: 16
Fly to Venice; transfer to Trento, province of Trentino-Alto Adige nestled in the Adige River Valley. A cosmopolitan city and a centre for industry, education, science and finance, Trento is one of the wealthiest and most prosperous cities in Italy boasting an atmospheric historic centre adorned by well preserved Medieval and Renaissance buildings. Depending on the group’s arrival time, there may be time to go into town before we have our evening meal and trip briefing.
The trip starts in Trento, a city nestled in the Adige River Valley in the Trentino-Alto Adige province. A cosmopolitan hub and centre for industry, education, science and finance, Trento is one of the most prosperous cities in Italy with an atmospheric historic centre of well-preserved Medieval and Renaissance buildings. After check-in, there may be time to go into town before our evening meal and trip briefing.
After breakfast, we take a 40-minute train ride to Bolzano, the capital city of the South Tyrol surrounded by powerful peaks. We can familiarise ourselves with the bikes on a short tour around the historic centre. From here, we will cycle south along the Adige River, following quiet undulating roads, with an overall ascent of approximately 985ft (300m). Cycling through orchards and vineyards, we pass Lake Caldaro and the lovely villages of Ora, Egna and Salorno. This area is well known for producing wine, accounting for three-quarters of the output in South Tyrol. We arrive back in Trento in the late afternoon and spend a second night at our central hotel.
We continue along the Adige until we reach Rovereto and Mori. From here, we head west towards the northern shores of Lake Garda. After some short ascents, we cycle down to Torbole and then onto the elegant resort of Riva del Garda, which has plenty of bars and restaurants along the lake shore and a lovely beach. Later in the afternoon, we take the ferry to the southern end of the lake, leaving Trentino and heading towards the Veneto region. A lake cruise allows us to enjoy the splendid landscape and relax before we reach our final destination of the day, Desenzano, where we take a short walk from the ferry port to reach our hotel for the night.
Cycling mainly on quiet roads and cycle paths today, we make our way to Verona, which, is arguably the most beautiful city in Veneto. The arena is one of the many Roman monuments we can discover there, while other places of interest are the Basilica San Zeno and, of course, Juliet’s house and balcony.
In the evening briefing, the tour guide will discuss tomorrow’s route and there will be a group vote on which of the two options to take.
Today’s route depends on what was decided in last night’s group vote.
Either way, our destination for the day is Vicenza. The old city centre is a jewel of Renaissance architecture: private palaces, public buildings and the basilica are testaments to the work of Andrea Palladio, one of the most renowned architects in Italy. A visit to the best ice cream parlour in Vicenza is a great reward after today’s ride.
Today we can take in some of the greenest and most stunning views of the Veneto countryside. Leaving Vicenza, we cycle past beautiful Palladian villas and we reach the hillier region of Monti Berici. We continue along the Bacchiglione River, on relatively quiet and flat roads, to the fascinating city of Padua (Padova in Italian), which is known for the Scrovegni Chapel, painted by Giotto, and the Prato della Valle, one of the biggest squares in Europe.
This morning, we transfer to Venice by train (approximately 30 minutes). Once in the heart of the Floating City, we can explore the labyrinth of narrow streets, bridges and waterways. We see famous sights including Doge’s Palace, the Rialto Bridge and, of course, Piazza San Marco. After exploring the city, we can enjoy a relaxed evening – speak to your tour leader to organise an optional gondola ride – before returning to our hotel in Padua by train. A dinner is included this evening.
After breakfast, we have most of the day free to further explore Padua or Venice, before transferring from Padua to the airport and flying to London.
The trip ends in Padua after breakfast. However, if you would prefer to extend your stay and explore a little more, speak to your sales representative.
We use a variety of three- and four-star hotels throughout with en suite facilities. They may be either in the towns themselves or in the surrounding countryside and are selected based on a combination of service levels, cleanliness, location and value.
Examples of hotels used:
Trento: Hotel America
Desenzano: Hotel Bonotto or Hotel Piroscafo
Verona: Hotel Scalzi
Vicenza: Hotel Cristina
Padova: Hotel Casa del Pellegrino
Single supplement from 492 €
All breakfasts are included on this trip. For breakfast you can expect a continental-style buffet including cold meats, eggs, cheese, breads, pastries, jam, tea and coffee.
For lunch and dinner, our leader can recommend his favourite restaurants based on your budget and preferences. As you would expect from a holiday in Italy, the standard of food and drink throughout the tour is extremely high and varied as we head from the mountains to the coast. Expect plenty of pizza and pasta dishes but also lots of seafood options on restaurant menus too. This trip passes through several wine-producing regions; if possible, we will stop at one or two during the week.
Transfers to and from the airport will be by private vehicle (normally minibus). There is a support vehicle following the group most of the time, which will also carry your baggage between hotels and be available on request for assistance or if you choose to stop cycling for the day; however, please be aware it has limited seats. A guide cycles with the group at all times.
In the Dolomites – as always in the mountains – the weather can be very changeable. On average in summer months, you can expect rain on one day in two, but it is likely to come in heavy and thundery outbursts of relatively short duration rather than prolonged showers. Down in the valleys, daytime temperatures range on average from 12C to 22C (54F to 72F), although 25C (77F) is not unusual. As we ride out of the mountains, the weather often gets warmer, therefore you need to be ready for anything, and to pack shorts as well as warmer clothes, full waterproofs and sunscreen.
Start hotel: Hotel America, Via Torre Verde, 50, 38122 Trento TN
Phone: +39 0461 983010
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Venice Marco Polo (VCE)
The start hotel is approximately 2hr 30min drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
It’s possible to reach the start hotel by public transport, but the journey is long and expensive. We therefore recommend joining the group transfer where possible. If not, a cab from the airport to the start hotel costs approximately €470-€500.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
The trip ends in Padua, approximately 45 minutes from Venice Marco Polo Airport. There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join.
If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Trento
Location end: Padua
Included standard bike
The standard bike for this trip is a Musing Twinroad, an aluminium hybrid bike.
We will take your height at the time of booking to reserve equipment. If you have a preferred bike size, please request when booking.
E-bike upgrade
Electric bikes are available on this trip; prices from £190/US$270/360 Canadian dollars. Speak to your sales representative for more information.
Bringing your own bike
If you’d prefer to bring your own bike, please advise us at the time of booking and you will receive a discount on the price of the trip. However, you will be responsible for any extra baggage charges; assembling and disassembling your bike; and bringing along spare parts and any tools specific to it. You should also ensure you have adequate insurance to cover loss, damage or theft.
Bringing equipment from home
You’re welcome to bring your own equipment, such as SPD pedals or clipless pedals, your own saddle (excluding the seat post), or gel saddle cover for the hire bikes. Your leader will help you fit these when bikes are distributed.
Helmets
Helmets are mandatory for everyone on a guided Exodus cycling trip. You must bring your own as, following best safety practice, they are not available for hire.
Cycling clothing
For this cycling trip we recommend:
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Italy. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/italy
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/italy
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Italy.html
Please note: it is compulsory to carry ID with you at all times in Italy.
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
If you’re a UK citizen, please note that your UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) are still valid and offer the same cover as the Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) in the EU. This gives you medical care at a reduced cost, and in some cases for free, in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. Once your EHIC has expired, replace it with a GHIC.
Italy's time zone: Europe/Rome (UTC +02:00)
Italy's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins, European standard), F (two round pins), and L (three round pins in a row) – 230V, 50Hz
Italy's currency: Euros (EUR)
Cash points are widely available throughout trip and almost all places visited accept major credit cards.
You will need sufficient funds to buy lunches and dinners that are not included. We suggest allowing €15‐€20 for lunch and €25‐€35 for dinner (excluding drinks). Your leader will also collect an optional trip kitty (approximately €8-€10 per person for the week) for the provision of snacks, soft drinks and fruit during the rides.
All accommodation is included in the price of the trip but hotel taxes in Italy must be paid locally when checking into the hotel. Please allow €16 for the week to cover this.
The Italian government is planning to introduce an additional tax on those visiting Venice for less than two nights (as is the case on our trip), starting from summer 2023. The fee is expected to be between €3-10 per person and will be payable via a dedicated website or app.
Optional excursions:
Although optional, a tip for the leaders at the end of the trip is greatly appreciated. As a starting point, we suggest €25 per person for the leader. It is also customary to tip private bus drivers (we suggest from €15 per person for the week).
We work hard to create trips that have a positive impact on the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Learn more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.
Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:
People
How this trip helps improve life for local communities.
Places
How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.
Planet
How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.
Tips for sustainable travel on this trip
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.