Traverse some of the highest bikeable passes in the Dolomites while taking in the views, the trails, and the food along the way!
Explore "the most beautiful mountains on the planet" during this guided mountain biking trip through the Italian Dolomites with our partners from Big Mountain Bike Adventures. When you lay eyes on them you’ll agree with famous climber, Reinhold Messner, that they are indeed world class. Rocky limestone spires pierce the sky while flowered grassy valleys are dotted with picture perfect mountain towns. For history enthusiasts, this Italy mountain biking trip is a ride back in time as we literally pedal down trenches and past sights from World War I. We'll traverse some of the highest bikeable passes in the Dolomites via Unesco World Heritage designated sites Alta Badia, Sella, Val di Fassa, Alleghe, San Martino di Castrozza, and Cortina d’Ampezzo. Add the stunningly perched mountain rifugios (mountain huts) that we’ll call home each night and delicious Italian cuisine and cappuccino stops and you’ve got one hell of a great mountain bike trip. If that’s not enough, the stats: approximate total descent of 57,500 feet (17,500 meters), approximate total ascent of 10,000 ft (3050 meters), 3 shuttles, 20+ lifts. This mountain bike trip is the best of the best in the Italian Dolomites.
Arrive in Munich no later than 11:00 am if you arrive the day before please meet the group at the Munich airport on the morning of day 1. A Big Mountain driver will be waiting at the airport and we will transfer three and a half hours to Selva di Val Gardena, Italy. After checking into your hotel we’ll build bikes and go for a stroll around town. We will have dinner here and stay at the 4-star Hotel Picollo.
2
Today we’ll get up and ride either the Alta Badia Enduro Tour or the Marmolada Enduro. Get ready for some of the most spectacular riding of your life. Depending on the group’s appetite for rides, we’ll choose one of these big and amazing loops. Tonight we’re back at Hotel Picollo.
3
We start the day dropping gently downwards to the village of Ortisei. From here we will start our adventure along the amazing trails of Val Gardena and then down to Val di Fassa. This afternoon we’ll take a cable car and then climb 1,600 ft to our spectacular lodge, Rifugio Viel dell Pan at almost 8,200 ft with epic views of the Marmolada, the highest peak of the Dolomites at 10,800 ft. Tonight’s cuisine is unreal!
4
Another big day featuring almost 11,500 ft of descent and a few climbs surrounded by amazing landscapes. The Bindelweg, leads us down to Alleghe: endless rolling singletrack above 7,800 ft for over two hours in the shadow of one of the most iconic mountains of the Dolomites, the Civetta. The last mindblowing descent leads us down to Caprile where we take a shuttle and finally a lift up to the unreal Rifugio Averau, a gourmet-hut with a wine list that rivals a big city restaurant and a delicious multi-course dinner. Oh, and unforgettable views to Cortina d’Ampezzo, the Tofana, and Cristallo mountains.
5
Early bird option: 30-minute ride and hike to seriously perched Rifugio Nuvolau – the Dolomite’s oldest mountain refuge with 360-degree views. After a cappuccino, it’s a technical ride back to breakfast at Rifugio Nuvolau. Otherwise, the day begins with an amazing 4,900 ft singletrack descent to the Cinque Torri and further down to Cortina d’Ampezzo. The views today are spectacular! Of course, we need to take a stroll down the beautiful pedestrian-only main street before catching the Freccia nel Cielo cable-car. After a hike-a-bike section, one of the finest descents of the entire Dolomites is awaiting us. Back in Cortina another lift followed by a shuttle and a 50 min. climb / hike-a-bike section we reach tonight’s rifugio, one of the most romantic mountain huts of the Dolomites, Son Forca. The homemade dinner is delicious!
6
After a hearty breakfast it’s a quick climb to reach the impressive 2,600 ft high north faces of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, an extraordinary panorama with a big and technical singletrack descent awaits us. In the afternoon we roll down to San Candido, one of the most beautiful villages of the Dolomites, where we take the train and shuttle back to Val Gardena. At the end of the day, we’ll be handed the wine list and served a four-course dinner back at Hotel Picollo.
7
We will say goodbye to the Dolomites and have an early morning start for the three and a half hour drive back to Munich Airport. The transfer ends at the airport, please book your flights to depart no earlier than 2:00 PM.
Trip Package Includes
Three nights in a 4-star hotel & three nights in alpine huts
All breakfasts and all dinners
Airport transfers to/from Munich Airport (MUC) on scheduled days only
All ride-day transportation, lifts, and luggage transport from hotel to hotel
Expert local leadership
Detailed pre-departure information and trip extension assistance
One-time 20% off discount code for evo.com
Not Included
Airfare and airport taxes and excess baggage charges (if any)
All lunches and personal items like drinks and snacks (We recommend €20 Euro per day for lunches and extras)
Mandatory personal travel and medical insurance (we recommend World Nomads for travel insurance)
Your bike and related gear (High-performance rental bikes are available. Please inquire for more information.)
Located in Northeastern Italy, the Dolomites are a beautiful mountain range with towering peaks, vertical walls, and lush green meadows. The range is home to 18 peaks over 9,800 feet and thanks to its rugged landscape is home to some of the world’s best singletrack. On this Italy mountain bike tour, we will explore some epic trails with equally epic views. We’ll ride past rifugios and alpine huts that dot the landscape and perch precariously on hillsides and cliffs. Most rifugios book out before the summer even starts. Luckily we have reserved rooms well in advance and will have the chance to stay at these picturesque lodges.
Generally, the weather is warm and sunny in the Dolomites. Being in the big mountains however we need to be prepared for very cold weather (yes, even snow!) and cool nights. We recommend a layering system to be ready for anything, from riding in the sun and rain to enjoying a coffee on the deck at 11,000 feet!
This trip is best on a strong all-mountain bike. In other words a 5 or 6-inch dual-suspension bike modified for downhill (riser bars, short stem, dropper post). Kneepads and eye protection are strongly recommended. All participants are required to have their bikes in excellent working order before the trip begins.
Bike Gear
Clothing
Other
FAQ
FAQ
Are departures Guaranteed?
All trips must reach a minimum of 4 guests in order to run. Please check with evo and Big Mountain before purchasing flights.
How technical are the trails and what skill level of riding is required?
The technical ability required for the Mighty Dolomites is rated as ‘advanced and above.’ In other words, the trails are challenging at times with considerable loose and rocky sections, steeps, and some exposure. There are also hike-a-bike sections on this trip; participants must have good walking footwear and be able to carry their bikes. For fitness level, riders must be very fit. All participants must train accordingly to fully enjoy this trip.
Please fill out Big Mountains rider questionnaire to help choose if this trip is right for you.
Inevitably there will be slower and faster riders in each group but, from experience the differences in ability work themselves out: some will simply enjoy the view for a little longer. If needed, riders can elect to skip a day's riding or a portion of it depending on logistics. You will get more enjoyment out of any trip if you are in good physical condition.
What is the food like? What if I have special diets requests?
The meals provided are typical of the region. Typically, all breakfasts and dinners are included whereas lunches are not. Big Mountain makes sure that everyone eats well, guaranteed. When you register for this trip you will be asked about specific dietary needs or preferences. Accommodations can be made for most unique dietary requests such as; vegan, vegetarian, allergies, gluten-free, etc.
What is lodging like on this trip?
We’ll spend the first two nights and final night in a well-appointed 4-star hotel in the alpine village of Val Gardena. Then it’s into the alpine we go for three nights in epic mountain rifugios (cabins) with 4 or more guests per room. The rifugios are very comfortable with hot showers, extensive wine lists, etc. This is Italy, the food is amazing!! Please let us know if you have any special dietary needs.Big Mountain rates the technicality of this trip at 2. This generally requires that you have been mountain biking consistently for two plus years, can climb and descend under control on moderately steep singletrack with loose rocks and some roots. Can ride with mild exposure at times. You know when to walk a section that might be too difficult. Would embrace more riding time and consider taking a lesson or enrolling in a camp to help prepare for the trip.
Can I room by myself? Is there a single supplement fee?
The single supplement of €195 is an additional fee for solo travelers who wish to have their own rooms during the trip. If riders agree to share a room with someone of the same gender BM will pair you up. If there isn’t another single participant of the same gender available, you will automatically have your own room and incur the additional single supplement fee. *Single Supplement is only available three of six nights.
What kind of bike do I need?
The perfect bike for this trip is a 5-6” travel all-mountain dual suspension bike with hydraulic disk brakes. All participants are required to have their bikes in excellent working order before the trip begins. Also required: helmet, hydration pack, eye protection and clothing for all types of weather. Kneepads are strongly recommended for bigger descents. All participants are required to bring extra brake pads, tubes, a patch kit, and any other parts specific to your bike. Big Mountain will send you a detailed list of required equipment and clothing before departure.
Should I be worried about theft or the handling of my bike and gear?
Clients are responsible for the care and prevention of theft of their bikes and gear. Guides will aid in bike load and unload to racks and vehicles during the trip – it is the client's responsibility to approve methods of loading and also storage. If ever in doubt, we encourage everyone to talk to their guide or host and, if needed, agree on an alternative or ask to store your bike in your room. On all our trips we recommend bringing a durable lock for added security (even in your hotel room). Big Mountain Bike Adventures, staff and partners are not responsible for lost or stolen bikes, bags or personal items.
What is the group size?
Groups are typically between 4 and 12 participants, with 1-2 guides per group. Often, a third guide will provide extra support during the trip. Our groups are kept small so that we can ensure every participant is well looked after. Small groups mean riders can give each other space, yet be sure that everyone is on the right track.
How old do you have to be to join this trip?
Participants must be 18 and over, unless accompanied by an adult.
Do I need trip insurance?
Health insurance is required and we highly recommend World Nomads for travel insurance. Please see Big Mountain’s Terms & Conditions page for more info.
What If I need to cancel?
If canceling, the following policy applies for our scheduled trips:
- Within 14 days of receiving your registration (and outside of the 90 day pre-trip window) you will be fully refunded.
- At 90 days before the trip start date, 50% may be refunded up to 60 days prior, 25% refunded up to 30 days prior.
- All trips are non-refundable 29 days or less prior to the trips start date.
Can you help me with my pre and post travel arrangements or airfare?
International airfare (and associated costs) to your trips starting or ending place is not included nor organized by evo or Big Mountain. Big Mountain can, however, assist with extra hotel nights, bike bag storage or revised airport transfers if you wish to extend your trip before or after the Big Mountain adventure.
What kind of information will I receive to prepare for my trip?
Once registered Big Mountain riders will receive a detailed pre-departure 'Trip Preparation Guide' specific to the trip. It covers important information like trip planning timeline, recommended packing list, tips on traveling with your bike, insurance requirements and helpful information according to your destination to ensure that you are well prepared for the adventure ahead.
Who are the guides?
We know how important good leaders are in the enjoyment and success of a trip. We are proud to offer the best leaders available in all our destinations. They are the link to unforgettable riding, new cultures, and great experiences. You will learn more from them than any guidebook. Their riding expertise, enthusiasm, language skills, environmental appreciation, cultural understanding, and safety training are unparalleled. Besides showing you secret singletrack, they will make sure your trip runs smoothly and safely.
Can I fly with my bike?
Yes. Most airlines will charge additional fees for bikes. Ensure that you review the airline's policy before finalizing any bookings. We will send you detailed information on tips for packing your bike in our Trip Preparation Guide specific to your trip.
How long will we be riding for each day?
You'll typically spend four to five to as much as seven hours on your bike each day depending on the group and particular day. Please visit Big Mountain’s Ability Guide for more information on different skill and fitness ratings.
Testimonials
The views, the riding, the cuisine, the wine, the guides, the amazing accommodation; this trip exceeded our expectations.
Rob S.
evoTrip 2016
The food in Italy was incredible and it was such a unique experience to visit and stay in the local refugios. We rode so many different trails and it was so cool to use the vast network of lifts to cover lots of ground each day. We had full days of riding and still pedaled tons but with lots of descending (glad I got new brake pads!).
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