Current as of: April 20, 2024 - 03:08

Cycling Lake Garda with e-bike

Cycling Lake Garda with e-bike Trip Notes

  • Ways to Travel: Self-Guided Holidays
  • Destination: Italy
  • Programmes: Cycling
  • Activity Level:

    3 out of 7 - Moderate

  • 7 Days: Land Only
  • Ages: 12+
  • Trip Code: C06LG

Trip Overview

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.

At a Glance

  • Management by your local Headwater appointed agent
  • Headwater Navigation App

Highlights

  • Ride past the glistening clear waters of Lake Garda and Mincio River on  your e-bike
  • Visit the picturesque peninsula of Sirmione and sample the fine wines of Valpolicella
  • Discover the history and outstanding beauty of medieval towns and UNESCO Heritage sites

Adult min age: 12

Itinerary

Land Only

  • Start City: Lake Garda
  • End City: Lake Garda

Flight Inclusive

  • Start City: London
  • End City: London

Land Only Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive Lake Garda

After arriving on Lake Garda, enjoy an afternoon at leisure exploring the shores of Mincio River or Lake Garda. With beautiful ramparts and imposing doors, this small jewel of architecture is enclosed an incredible 16th century pentagonal wall.

Day 2
Lazise & Bardolino

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.

Distance covered: 42mi (67km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3
Valpolicella Vineyards

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.

Distance covered: 44mi (71km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4
Borghetto & Valeggio

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.

Distance covered: 14mi (22km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 5
Sirmione & Lugana Vineyards

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.

Distance covered: 25mi (41km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6
Lake Garda to Mantua

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.

Distance covered: 28mi (45km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 7
Depart Lake Garda

After breakfast, leave the beautiful Lake Garda behind.

Meals included: Breakfast

Accommodation

Borgo Stazione Bike Inn

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.

What To Take

Practical Information

Visa

Italy

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.

Vaccinations and Health

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.

Local Time

Italy's time zone: Europe/Rome (UTC +02:00)

Electricity

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

Cycling Lake Garda with e-bike

Money

Italy's currency: Euros (EUR)

Responsible Travel

At Exodus we believe in the power of Responsible Travel.

Every time we travel, we are part of a global movement that creates jobs, builds more sustainable societies, encourages cultural understanding and safeguards common natural and cultural heritage. To learn more about what Responsible Travel means to Exodus click here