As I did to convince my partner to do a Trip to South Tyrol by bike visiting the most beautiful villages in the region? It should be clarified to start that it was not anything extreme: two days in the saddle, just under 100 kilometers in total and a little downhill difference in height. A distance that can frighten the neophyte, but that with some precautions faced well. Also because in the past she had already traveled some cycle paths, but nothing that could really be defined as a bike trip.
My attack plan was played in two phases. Before, I leveraged the charm of traveling slow: enjoy the breathtaking views of South Tyrol, slow down the rhythm, savor every kilometer as if it were a sip of good wine. In short, the philosophy of “is not the goal that matters, but the journey”. Then I had to move on to astute, because let’s face it, the difference in height is not negotiated, and the climbs are true and you have to be trained and aware of their limits. So here is the magic of the electric bicycle on the scene, which allows you to do tiring things … without “spitting blood”. A perfect compromise: I with the muscle bike, she with electricity. Mission accomplished: convinced (albeit with some reserve) and ready to start for the cyclutory adventure in South Tyrol.
The goal? Cross four of the most beautiful villages of South Tyrol: Egna, Castelrotto, Chiusa and Vipiteno. An itinerary on cycle path designed for those who love pedaling calmly, between nature, culture and postcard glimpses. That’s how it went.
Day 1: from Egna to Castelrotto
We started from Egnaone of the Most beautiful villages in Italy. Located in the low attesin sunny, between Bolzano and Trento, it is set between vineyards and apples, at the foot of the Monte Corno Natural Park. His historic center It is a small jewel: medieval arcades, pastel -colored houses with the classic erker (three -dimensional windows) and elegant houses with mysterious and fascinating courtyards. Once an important commercial node of Tyrol, today it is an active cultural center with many things to do and see. Egna is also a home of the Pinot Nerowhich finds fertile ground in the surrounding hills and from here starts the Pinot Nero routea 14 km itinerary between the vineyards, where you can visit the famous cellars in the area. A true paradise for i winelover.
After leaving Egna, you pedal along the last stretch of the South Tyrolean wine road, between ordered rows and silent villages, up to Bolzano. Here we take the ISARCO cycle pathone of the most popular in South Tyrol, which unites the capital to the Brenner. After a quin dictine of kilometers, take the climb to Castelrotto. The roads become narrower: vineyards and apple melets give way to woods and meadows that open on the Sciliarwho reminds us how beautiful they are Dolomites even if seen from afar.
The South Tyrol by bike is completely another thing: Castelrotto welcomes us like a postcard, thanks to an enchanting position, set in the mountains. Located at the foot of the Sciliar-Catinaccio Natural Park and a stone’s throw from the Alpe di Siusi, it is a village with an intimate atmosphere, with a well-kept center, very elegant frescoed houses, cobbled streets and a majestic bell tower (82 meters!) Which stands out isolated from the church. A visit to Museum of traditional costumeshosted in an ancient residence is perfect if you want to deepen local culture. Including the bold climb on the bell tower on which, needless to say, the panorama is superb. Just ask for Oswald, the local guide and the true institution of the place.
Day 2: From Castelrotto to Vipiteno, passing through Chiusa and Bressanone
This is the longest stage, so we start early. We get off from Castelrotto towards the Valle dell’Isarco and resume the cycle path, skirting meletes and woods, with the sun filtering between the branches. After about twenty kilometers we stop for a small break a Closuresmall medieval pearl and a charm bohemienalso among the Most beautiful villages in Italy. Perched above the village is the Monastery of Sabionareachable wanting with a short walk: a mystical place, with a view that repays the effort (but that we are satisfied with looking down).
We start again at the time of Bressanonewhere we allow ourselves a longer stop. Founded in 901, it is the oldest city in Tyrol. Here Baroque elegance and alpine spirit coexist here: the cathedral, the frescoed cloister, the bishop’s palace … everything is harmonious and relaxing. Leaving Bressanone, you can admire the Abbey of Novacella from above: founded in the twelfth century, it is still one of the most active cultural and wine centers of South Tyrol.
We cross Fortresswith its imposing Austro-Hungarian strong, and then Mules. Shortly thereafter, a spectacular view of Castel Tasso It makes us stop, once again, for yet another Photo Opportunities. Last light climb and we arrive at Vipitenoone of the northernmost cities in Italy, famous for its Christmas markets. A walk in his ancient village is the worthy conclusion of our tour.
A look at the Tower of the twelvebuilt in 1472, one of the most iconic skyline in South Tyrol. The Town Hall of Vipiteno is one of the most beautiful Gothic buildings in South Tyrol. Built in the fifteenth century, it is striking for its decorated facade, the sharp peddles and the magnificent council room with the original wooden panels. Today it houses a museum that offers interesting ideas on the history of the city. There is no shortage of coffee, artisan shops and historical pastry shops, such as the famous Prenn Where a Krapfen with berries jam will repay you with all the labors.
Day 3: you go home (with a smile)
The return is quick and sweet with The train that takes us to Bolzano from Vipiteno with the bikes comfortably on board and then up to Egna to recover the car. With the endorphins in the circle and a little tired muscles, on the skin that unique sensation that gives cycle tourism: the awareness of having made a journey with a capital V. A tour that also conquered my partner, who already fantasized on the way back on what could be the next destination to be reached by bike. Mission accomplished. Because once you try to explore the world on two wheels, you don’t want to stop anymore.
Practical info
Stop 1 (detailed map and GPX on Komoot):
- Duration: 02:46
- Distance: 29.3 km
- Total ascent: 1,080 m
- Descent: 280 m
Stop 2 (detailed map and GPX on Komoot):
- Duration: 03:41
- Distance: 66.2 km
- Total ascent: 890 m
- Descent: 1000 m
To rent the Ebike there are numerous options and Bolzano some rent allow the return to Vipiteno, like the one we used (Papin Rent). The return by train from Vipiteno to Bolzano takes about an hour.
Source: Vanity Fair
I’m Susan Karen, a professional writer and editor at World Stock Market. I specialize in Entertainment news, writing stories that keep readers informed on all the latest developments in the industry. With over five years of experience in creating engaging content and copywriting for various media outlets, I have grown to become an invaluable asset to any team.
