Article produced in collaboration with BikeHotels Südtirol
Cycling in South Tyrol is much more than simply getting from one point to another: it is an immersion in a landscape that blends nature, hospitality and a genuine passion for cycling. Around every bend, new scenes unfold - meadows, vineyards, forests, castles and mountains. All set within a backdrop that feels almost purpose-built for those travelling on two wheels.
Rouleur has chosen to explore South Tyrol by following the thread of the BikeHotels Südtirol network: hoteliers who are, first and foremost, cyclists - often certified guides - who know every climb and every route like the back of their hand.
In spring, the slopes fill with colour and the air carries the scent of apple blossom. Summer draws you to higher altitudes, along trails that cross alpine pastures and invite you to pause at mountain huts. Then comes autumn, with its warm tones and slower rhythm: it’s time for Törggelen, the rural tradition that celebrates the end of the harvest with chestnuts, new wine and long lunches in wooden stube.
(Image: Patrick Schwienbacher)
“Our hotel is located on a plateau known for its apple orchards. We’re at around 900 metres above sea level, which gives us a mild climate and allows us to start the cycling season as early as April, riding right through to November,” says Tobias Überbacher of Hotel Jonathan in Natz-Schabs, not far from Brixen. Here, the Eisack Valley, the Puster Valley and the upper Eisack Valley meet - a natural crossroads for those travelling by bike. “At the start of the season, we suggest more relaxed routes: riding towards Bolzano, Merano, Bruneck or Sterzing, among blossoming trees and already pleasant temperatures. In summer, the rides head higher into the mountains, towards alpine pastures, with stops dedicated to traditional cuisine.”
And food itself is very much part of the experience. Knödel - with speck, liver, served in broth or with melted butter and chives - tell the story of the region as much as its landscapes do. Between one ride and the next, there’s also time for something sweet: Kaiserschmarrn with fruit compote or apple strudel, perhaps enjoyed during a coffee stop along the way.
“Our guests mainly come from Germany, Switzerland and Austria, but also from Italy,” Überbacher continues. “Our tours usually set off in the morning and return in the early afternoon. In summer, we start early — sometimes even before 9am — to avoid the heat. Each ride is tailored: some are looking for challenging climbs, while others prefer a more relaxed pace.”
Nothing is left to chance when it comes to organisation: the bike storage is under video surveillance, locked at night and fully equipped for maintenance.
(Image: Emi Massmer)
Climbs and scenery around Brixen
The area around Brixen offers a network of routes suited to road cycling enthusiasts, with the choice depending, of course, on your level of fitness. Among the best-known routes is the one leading to the Würzjoch (Passo delle Erbe), via Lüsen or the Villnöss Valley, as well as the Jaufenpass (Passo Giovo), which connects directly to Merano. For those who enjoy testing themselves - and their friends - the route through the Sarntal Valley up to the Penser Joch (Passo Pennes), towards Sterzing, is among the most demanding in the area.
“After the pandemic, we saw a huge increase in interest in cycling, particularly in e-bikes,” explains Überbacher. “More and more people have rediscovered nature, sometimes favouring less technical routes but ones rich in character, where performance matters less than the pleasure of the journey.”
The Würzjoch (Passo delle Erbe) remains one of the most popular destinations for cyclists in South Tyrol. It can be reached from Brixen or Bruneck, and once at the top, the ideal stop is the restaurant overlooking the Odle group. Mountain bikers can take advantage of the Plose cable car to gain elevation, while road cyclists can tackle the entire route in the saddle. Gravel riders, too, will find a varied and engaging terrain here, perfect for staying close to nature.
One of the most complete routes starts in Natz-Schabs. After a descent towards Brixen, the road climbs in the direction of St. Andrä and continues up to the Würzjoch. Along the way, views open out onto the Odle di Eores, whose distinctive profile accompanies the ascent.
Once the pass is reached, at the foot of Sass de Putia, the descent begins towards Alta Badia, passing through St. Martin in Thurn and Mareo, before connecting with the road to Maria Saalen. The final stretch follows the Puster Valley cycle path, from St. Lorenzen to Mühlbach, before closing the loop with the return to Natz-Schabs, the starting point of the tour.
An alternative route to the Würzjoch starts from San Vigilio. The itinerary passes through Pieve di Marebbe along a road that leads through Sares and St. Martin, in the area of St. Lorenzen. Near the gravel pit, the route crosses the main road to join the Puster Valley cycle path, which can be followed as far as Bistro Lanz, near Schabs.
At this point, the cycle path is left behind, turning right towards Schabs and continuing on to Brixen. After passing through the town, the route reaches Millan, where a demanding climb begins, with a series of hairpin bends leading up to St. Andrä. Here, the most physical section starts, immersed in woodland, passing the junction for the Villnöss Valley and continuing all the way to the Würzjoch.
The return to San Vigilio follows a route through Antermoia, St. Martin and Longega, completing a varied loop suited to those seeking significant elevation gain.
And it is precisely from Alta Badia, crossed during the ride, that another key chapter of road cycling in South Tyrol begins.
Alta Badia, too, is a true paradise for road cycling enthusiasts. From here, riders can access some of the most legendary climbs in the Dolomites, such as the Pordoi Pass, the Sella Pass and the Falzarego Pass — often the stage for epic moments in the Giro d’Italia. True myths on two wheels, they are coveted challenges for cyclists from all over the world.
(Image: Patrick Schwienbacher)
Dolomite passes closed to traffic
South Tyrol celebrates the freedom of two wheels with a series of events that see some of the most spectacular Dolomite passes closed to motorised traffic and reserved exclusively for cyclists.
The season includes the Sellaronda Bike Day, which opens the Sella, Gardena, Pordoi and Campolongo passes to thousands of enthusiasts. The event returns later in the year, offering a second opportunity to enjoy the classic Dolomite loop in complete tranquillity.
Another highlight is the Dolomites Bike Day, which takes in the Campolongo, Falzarego and Valparola passes along one of the most scenic routes in the region.
The route - both demanding and spectacular - unfolds along iconic climbs to be tackled at least once in a lifetime: Campolongo, Pordoi, Sella, Gardena, Giau and Valparola.
The season continues at altitude with the Stelviobike, when riders take on the legendary Stelvio Pass—a true celebration for lovers of high-mountain climbs. This is followed by a second Sellaronda event, before the season draws to a close with a dedicated cycling day on the Mendola Pass. An occasion not only to mark the end of summer, but also an invitation to discover a historic and panoramic route, perfect to ride at any time of year.
The road leading to the Mendola Pass, starting for example from Eppan or Kaltern - towns along the renowned South Tyrolean Wine Road - offers a scenic ride of great charm. Built between 1880 and 1885, it reveals sweeping views over the Überetsch and the Unterland. At the summit, bars and restaurants welcome cyclists for a restorative break before the descent, where you can let the bike run freely, then continue along routes that follow the Wine Road.
The South Tyrolean Wine Road stretches for around 150 kilometres, from Nals to Salorno, passing through Bolzano. The route winds through terraced vineyards, rolling hills, medieval castles and small villages. The area is renowned for its elegant white wines—such as Pinot Bianco and Gewürztraminer—as well as indigenous reds, including Schiava and Lagrein. Numerous wineries along the way offer tastings and guided visits, providing an opportunity to experience the local winemaking tradition up close and explore the region from a cycling perspective.
Between Lake Kaltern and the Mendola Pass, South Tyrol reveals a more Mediterranean side. Here, too, the cycling season begins as early as March, under the first warm sun of the year. Rides start at just 200 metres above sea level and climb to over 2,000 metres, across lesser-known passes and valleys.
In a region that alternates between alpine climbs, panoramic roads and cycle paths through vineyards, the variety of routes is remarkable: from relaxed cycling along dedicated paths to more demanding efforts at a faster pace, and even trails well suited to gravel riding.
Along the Wine Road
In the small village of Kurtatsch, set among vineyards along the South Tyrolean Wine Road, Hotel Terzer has become a point of reference for those who choose the bicycle as a way to explore the area.
Leading this approach is owner Lukas Terzer, a certified cycling guide who has made his passion a key part of the hotel’s hospitality. He does more than simply offer directions: he personally accompanies guests on guided rides - on the road, by mountain bike or e-bike - adapting each outing to the level and interests of those taking part.
“We are in the Unterland, and for road cycling there are several low-traffic routes,” he explains. “I often set off from here and head towards the Non Valley and the Cembra Valley, which are in Trentino, but still close to us and with very little traffic.”
Mountain bike rides also start directly from the hotel: “We usually do between 500 and 1,000 metres of climbing, sometimes even 1,500, followed by descents on trails - either technical or along forest roads, depending on the group I’m guiding.”
Among the climbs he enjoys most, Favogna holds a special place: “It’s my favourite. I start from home and ride nine kilometres with 800 metres of elevation gain. At the top there’s a small lake: in summer it’s perfect for a swim, in winter for skating.”
For those looking for more relaxed rides, Lake Kaltern can be reached by bike in around ten kilometres, as well as the Monticolo lakes, set among the woods. “In summer, many people rent a bike locally and ride out for a swim. In this area there are plenty of flat country lanes, used by farmers but also perfect for cycling.”
There are also trails to be tackled on a gravel bike or mountain bike. “My favourite trail is Monticolo: in spring I go there about once every two weeks with clients. There are easier routes, but also more demanding ones.” And for those looking for a thrill? “There’s the descent from Monte Roen down to Kurtatsch: you start from over 2,100 metres and drop nearly 2,000 metres in elevation.”
Alongside the sporting side, there is naturally a more convivial one: “In recent years, I’ve seen more and more guests combining cycling with discovering the area. You pass through every village, stopping at a winery or a farm restaurant. It’s a way of travelling that brings together sport, nature and food and wine.”
The hotel is designed with cyclists in mind: “We have two bike rooms - one for electric mountain bikes and one for road bikes. There’s almost one space per bed: we have 37 beds and room for nearly 30 bikes. At night, the storage is locked and alarmed - it’s important, because some guests travel with bikes worth €14,000 or €15,000 and want to feel secure.”
Guided rides take place several times a week. “I always lead at least one, then it depends on demand - both for road cycling and mountain biking. We usually set off around 9:30 and return between 15:30 and 16:30. We always stop somewhere with good food or drink.” Distances vary: “On a mountain bike, rides are around 40–50 kilometres, while on the road bike they can be between 100 and 150, depending on the group.”
From the Unterland, where wine meets cycling along the Wine Road, the view can widen towards another area equally rich in opportunities for cycle tourism: the Merano area and its surroundings.
Among castles, orchards and panoramas stretching as far as Lake Garda, this area offers routes of every kind, from the Timmelsjoch (Passo Rombo) to the Gampenpass (Passo Palade), all the way to the Stelvio.
Already known in the 19th century as a spa destination, Merano still retains the charm of an elegant town, with a historic centre shaped by Art Nouveau architecture, tree-lined avenues and vegetation with an almost Mediterranean feel. Among the highlights not to be missed are the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle, arranged like an amphitheatre across twelve hectares and home to a striking combination of botanical landscapes and artistic installations.
Among the must-ride climbs is the Jaufenpass (Passo Giovo), which links Merano to Sterzing, connecting the Passeier Valley with the Eisack Valley just before the Brenner border. The climb begins in St. Leonhard in Passeier, with demanding hairpins and gradients reaching up to 12%. Near Walten, the road turns towards the pass, opening up wide views over the surrounding mountains.
The return can follow the same route, or take a detour towards Gossensass to complete a wider loop.
The circle closes with a blend of culture, nature and sport - the true essence of South Tyrol.
BikeHotels Südtirol: a mark of certified quality
Whether on a road or gravel bike, muscle-powered or electric, everything within the BikeHotels Südtirol network is designed for those who love to ride. Guests can rely on secure bike storage, guided tours for all levels, and routes that start directly from the hotel.
The real added value lies in experience, combined with the passion of those who live and ride in the area every day. Often, the owner - or a member of the family - is also a certified guide, ready to offer practical support and advice along any kind of route.
(Image: Kirsten Sörries)
Adherence to the BikeHotels Südtirol philosophy is clear and shared: all staff are involved and trained to provide knowledgeable and attentive service. Rides are organised with great attention to detail and led exclusively by qualified guides who regularly take part in refresher training. The result is a professional service, rooted in the local cycling culture and tailored to those travelling on two wheels.
For information on the 29 affiliated properties, visit BikeHotels Südtirol
