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View of the port of Sistiana

Dolomites – Trieste

Just like in imperial times

8 Days / 7 Nights
Medium
View of the port of Sistiana

Starting in South Tyrol, Italy, your journey leads straight to Trieste, yet it's a voyage through not just one, but two other countries. With the majestic Dolomites as your backdrop, the route guides you through Lienz in Austria, then back into Italy, and onward to Slovenia, where the stunning Lake Bled awaits as a natural highlight. Along the way, amidst the vineyards of Friuli, you'll pause to meet local winemakers before reaching your final destination: Trieste, where the sparkling Adriatic Sea welcomes you!

Your holiday kicks off in the picturesque Pustertal valley, nestled amidst a breathtaking mountain panorama. From there, you'll pedal along the Drau River into Austria, reaching the charming town of Lienz. Afterward, you'll cross back into Italy through Kötschach-Mauthen and Hermagor, culminating in a refreshing swim at Lake Pressegger See.

On day 4, you'll embark on another detour into a new country as you enter Slovenia. Prepare to be enchanted by stunning natural landscapes, with the highlight undoubtedly being the picturesque Lake Bled. Cycle through the scenic Soca Valley, then onwards to Cividale del Friuli, passing through vineyards to reach Gradisca d'Isonzo. Consider adding a detour to Udine before tackling the final stretch to Trieste. The historic charm surrounding Miramare Castle evokes a sense of bygone eras, yet continues to captivate visitors to this day!

  • Austrian charm and culinary delights: Lienz in East Tyrol casts a spell with its medieval charm and stunning natural beauty. The quaint old town beckons you to take a leisurely walk, while outdoor enthusiasts can delve into the surrounding mountains through summer hikes and winter ski tours. Don't miss a scenic stroll along the Isel and a visit to the impressive Bruck Castle - they're highly recommended highlights of your visit.
  • Romantic atmosphere on Lake Bled: It's a natural gem, nestled amidst majestic mountains with a castle perched on an island at its center. Boat excursions offer enchanting views, while a visit to the castle promises panoramic vistas. Don't forget to indulge in the local delicacy - traditional Bled cream slices, a delectable treat you won't want to miss!
  • A stroll along the Trieste promenade: Elegant architecture blends with Mediterranean charm. Explore the grandeur of Miramare Castle, wander through the historic old town with its inviting cafes, and savor the breathtaking vista of the azure blue sea from Piazza Unità d'Italia, one of Europe's largest squares.

The stages are as diverse as the landscape stretching from the Puster Valley to the Adriatic Sea. Ranging from 35 to 75 kilometers, they vary from flat to hilly towards the end of the journey. You'll mostly cycle along well-maintained paths and quiet side roads. The tour package includes various transfers, and our team will provide you with detailed travel documents to ensure a smooth experience.

When you're out exploring on your bike, the journey itself becomes the destination. Yet, when your destination is Veneto, anticipation heightens even more - after all, the sea awaits. The Adriatic beckons with its refreshing sea breeze, breathtaking vistas, and delectable fresh seafood, promising a culinary highlight to savor.

Itinerary at a glance

Stroll through the beautiful Lienz and take a break at Lake Pressegger, then enjoy your first cappuccino in Tarvisio and visit Lake Bled in Slovenia. Make a stop at Miramare Castle, and you'll have reached your destination in Trieste.

Individual arrival to your starting hotel in the “Hochpustertal” valley.

From the water-shed of the rivers Drau and Rienz on Toblach saddle you cycle downhill from South Tyrol along river Drau. By crossing the Italian-Austrian border you leave South Tyrol and reach Lienz in East Tyrol, where impressive summits of the Dolomites seam the way.

After a short transfer on Gailberg Pass (350 m/7 km) a downhill section brings you to Kötschach Mauthen. Follow the Gailtal Valley cycle path at the foot of the Carnic Ridge, pass Hermagor and take a bath in Pressegger Lake. Overnight stay is in Feistritz an der Gail.

You cycle to the Italian boarder and continue on the cycle path. Soon you leave Italy and reach Slovenia. Past the well-known skiing area Kranjska Gora the cycle path winds through marvellous, mainly unspoilt nature. Today you have also the possibility to short the stage at 10 km by using the train (to be bought by your own).  Spend the evening on the idyllic lake of Bled.

After a transfer across the pass you reach Soca valley, well known for the exiting canoeing and adventure sports. In Kobarid you get a historic review of the dreadful battles during World War I. After that all lovers of fine food and wine can enjoy themselves. Historic city Cividale del Friuli invites to stroll around. Not only the Devil’s Bridge is well worth a visit, a number of cultures as e.g. Goths, Langobards and Francs left their traces.

On your way through Collio Goriziano, centre of the Friulian wine-growing area, many wine-cellars invite to stop and taste the first rate wines. After some small hills we come to Gradisca d'Isonzo. We recommend ambitious cyclists doing a longer tour via Udine. The most important city in the historic region of Friuli-Julitsch Venetian is a visit worth it!

Karst now is our companion to the Adriatic Sea and castle Miramare is worth a stop before we enter the ancient Hapsburg city Trieste. Recommended is an excursion to the biggest grotto of the world accessible for tourists, Grotta Gigante on the Slovenian border.

Day
08
Departure or extension

Route information

Medium

The bike trip to Trieste is a varied tour, the last two stages are slightly hilly. The route runs on cycle paths or along very quiet side roads through small villages and idyllic landscapes.

Prices & Dates

Prices per person in EUR

Services & Information

Further details about this tour

Included

  • Accommodation as already mentioned
  • Breakfast
  • Luggage transfer
  • Carefully elaborated route description
  • Detailed documentation 1x per room (German, English and Italian)
  • 1 Transfer by minibus from Oberdrauburg to Gailberg pass
  • 1 Train ticket Bled – Most na Soci/Kanal ob Soci incl. bike
  • App for navigation and GPS-data
  • Service-hotline

Optional extras

  • Return transfer from Trieste to Hochpustertal by shuttle bus every Wednesday and Saturday, costs EUR 96 per person, for your own bike additionally EUR 39, reservation is necessary, payable in advance

Things to note

  • Tourist tax, if due, is not included in the price!

Arrival / Parking / Departure

  • Train station Niederdorf or Toblach (depending on the arrival hotel)
  • Airport Treviso,Venice, Triest or Innsbruck
  • Free, public car park in Hochpustertal valley near your hotel.
  • Good train connection between Trieste and Hochpustertal (daily, departure at approx. 6.40am., it is not possible to take the bikes with you)

Things to note

  • Tourist tax, if due, is not included in the price!
  • Further important information according to the package travel law can be found here!
  • This tour is a partner tour.
Sarah Salzlechner

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