Winding roads, culture and contrasts in the south of South Tyrol
The ultimate road cycling holiday amongst vineyards and mountain passes
A taste of pleasure meets altitude gain
Anyone who loves road cycling will quickly fall in love with the south of South Tyrol. Here, where charming wine-growing villages nestle against sun-drenched slopes and the mountain passes are no less impressive than the views, your holiday begins right in the saddle. Between the provincial capital of Bolzano and the border with Trentino lies a region that is tailor-made for road cycling enthusiasts. Full of contrasts, culture and blissful moments on winding roads. From gentle valley cycle paths through apple orchards to challenging climbs over classics such as the Mendel and Gampen Passes. The variety of routes is as vast as the landscape is breathtaking. And by the time you’re sipping a cappuccino in one of the historic town centres, you’ll know for sure: South Tyrol’s south is more than just a training backdrop – it’s a way of life.
Landscape, Wine & Panoramic Views
What makes South Tyrol’s south so special is the perfect blend of sporting challenges and a leisurely, enjoyable way of life. On the countless routes along the South Tyrolean Wine Route, over the Mendel Pass or through villages with a Mediterranean feel such as Kurtatsch or Margreid, you’ll always be accompanied by the scent of orchards and a backdrop of vineyards. The Mendel Pass (1,363 m), the Gampen Pass (1,512 m) and the San Lugano Pass (1,097 m) offer more than just gruelling climbs. Unforgettable panoramic views stretching far into Trentino also await you here. And if you opt for a longer ride, you’ll cycle along perfectly tarmacked roads all the way to Merano or Trento, passing ancient castles and magnificent palazzi, with a guaranteed espresso stop in a sun-drenched piazza. Monte Bondone or Lake Molveno are perfect day trips for ambitious cyclists keen to tackle some elevation gain.
From top tours to top events
When it comes to food, there’s never a dull moment in the south of South Tyrol. Guests checking into the historic Hotel Teutschhaus in Kurtinig on the Wine Route can look forward not only to relaxing spa experiences and superb cuisine, but also to the expertise of host Walter Teutsch – and bike guide Manfred Joppi. As a versatile outdoor expert who combines his passion for cycling with in-depth training, he brings both technical know-how and regional insight to the table. The Sellaronda Bike Day in early September is an absolute must. During this event, you’ll explore the Dolomites in a condensed format and enjoy four Dolomite passes car-free. Another absolute South Tyrol highlight in the touring calendar is the Mendel Pass Cycling Day – when the legendary mountain pass belongs exclusively to cyclists.
A road cycling region with character
Whether you’re cruising leisurely along the South Tyrolean Wine Route, tackling the Mendel Pass or exploring the cycling paradise around the Trudner Horn Nature Park – South Tyrol’s south offers everything a road cyclist could wish for. Short stages or long rides, steep climbs or wide valleys, leisurely stops or sporting challenges: here you’ll find the best of everything. And by the time you’re enjoying a glass of wine in the evening, you’ll know for sure: you’ve truly arrived in South Tyrol’s south.