From the Dolomites to Venice by bike: following the route of the old railway

Starting from Villabassa/Dobbiaco, you join the cycle path in the Höhlenstein Valley, passing Lake Toblach and the military cemetery. This area served as a front line during the First World War. You then continue beyond Lake Dürrensee (on the left, you can see the famous Drei Zinnen/Three Peaks); the cycle path climbs gently before reaching the border between the South Tyrol and Veneto regions at the Gemärk/Cimabanche Pass. From there, you cycle south towards Cortina d'Ampezzo.

Today, the route descends gently, largely along the old railway line; you'll see the Sorapis on your left and the Cinque Torri (Five Towers) on your right. Continue south through the Boite Valley towards Pieve/Calalzo di Cadore. From there, the new cycle path takes you to Longarone. This town was completely rebuilt in 1963 after a landslide submerged the dam overlooking the village, causing a flood. From Longarone, the route is gently rolling all the way to Belluno.

From Belluno, the small capital of this province, the route follows tree-lined avenues and winds through rolling landscapes until you reach Feltre. Throughout the day, you'll pass through picturesque villages. To the north, you can admire the magnificent southern Dolomites, which accompanied you during the earlier stages of your journey.

You'll cycle easily for the first few kilometers before descending into the Brenta Valley. Here, the Brenta River meets the plain where the town of Bassano del Grappa is located. The town's name comes from Mount Grappa. Upon arrival, you can enjoy a well-deserved Grappa. The town is full of interesting sights to visit, such as the Church of San Francesco, the Civic Museum, and Piazza della Libertà.

Leaving the Dolomite Alps, you'll see several villas designed by the renowned architect Palladio. The town of Asolo is ideal for a break before continuing your journey across the plain to Treviso, the city of "water spiders." Along the canals, you can admire magnificent mansions and boutiques. It's one of the centers of Italian fashion, famous especially for its shoes and major brands like Benetton.

Following the course of the Sile river, you cycle towards the Adriatic Sea to Venice (mainland), where you can admire the impressive "Serenissima"

Individual departure