Cycling from Innsbruck to Lake Garda

Arrival in Innsbruck – Excitement Despite the Rain

The relentless rain in Austria tries to dampen our excitement for the cycling tour from Innsbruck to Lake Garda — but it doesn’t stand a chance. We arrive in Innsbruck full of anticipation and check into the stylish, perfectly located Hotel Zach, umbrella in hand. The umbrella proves to be our trusty companion as we wander through the charming streets of the Old Town. The famous Golden Roof, of course, is a must-see, but it’s far from the only highlight waiting around every corner. As evening approaches, it’s time for the briefing and bike handover. Every question is answered in detail, and our bikes are adjusted to fit perfectly. Afterwards, we pedal to a cozy brewery and enjoy a hearty, traditional dinner. Early to bed, we drift off with excitement buzzing — we’re ready. The adventure begins tomorrow.

A Full-Sensory Ride: From Innsbruck to Landeck

The next morning surprises us with bright, radiant sunshine. Who would have thought it? We set off along the Inns toward Imst, surrounded by snow-dusted mountains that sparkle in the morning light. The crisp air bites a little, and gusts of wind push against us, but bundled up in the right gear, we relish the warmth of the sun on our e-bikes. The sound of rushing water from nearby streams and the fresh scent of pine from the forests make every pedal stroke feel alive.

On the very first day, I already discover my personal favorite spot: we push our bikes across a charming little Inn footbridge emerging from a cozy forest, and beyond it lies a wide, shallow riverbed. On one side, rapids roar and tumble over rocks; on the other, calm pools invite us to dip our feet. The jagged, snow-capped mountains tower in the distance—absolutely breathtaking. We pause here for a moment, soaking it all in, only to realize that a single granola bar won’t satisfy our growing hunger. So we take on the climb to Imst, breathing in the cool mountain air, and pause to admire the church’s quiet charm. Refueled with a fluffy, sweet Kaiserschmarrn at Hotel Hirsch, we tackle the remaining kilometers of the day, the route weaving through picturesque valleys and sunlit forests, all the way to Landeck.

Just before arriving, a road closure nudges us into the side streets of Zams, where a lively village festival fills the air with laughter, music, and the scent of local delicacies. A cold beer in hand, we find the energy for the final, breathtaking stretch to Landeck. The sky remains clear, the sunshine our companion for the entire day. Upon arrival, we check into our medieval-style room at Hotel Schrofenstein. Our tired legs sink into relief during a soothing sauna, and the evening ends in perfect contentment with a relaxed dinner, the warm glow of the day still lingering.

Cyclist gazes into the distance from the Inn Bridge

Bike hire in Zirl with views of the snow-capped mountains

Through Tunnels to the First Lake

We hop on our bikes. Today’s stage to Lake Reschen features the biggest climb of the day along the Via Claudia Augusta. For now, though, we continue pedaling through the increasingly narrow Inns Valley.

A historic toll station nestled in the Inns Gorge comes into view, offering a breathtaking panorama. We ride across the river and immediately tackle the climb—steep and unrelenting. Our e-bikes prove invaluable on the gravel section that leads us to the Reschenstraße, currently closed to traffic. It’s a true joy to pedal through the quiet, car-free tunnels with just the sound of our tires on the stone, past Nauders Fortress, and further up to the town of the same name. Here we reach the highest point of the tour—and the border into Italy. From now on, it’s mostly downhill… well, almost.

On the impeccably marked Italian cycling paths, we descend toward the northern end of Lake Reschen under a light drizzle. Even in the rain, the lake looks stunning. Just ahead of the heavy downpour, we arrive at Villa Claudia Augusta, a family-run, cozy hotel with breathtaking views of the lake. Our luggage has even already arrived, and it’s only 1 p.m. It’s the perfect place to while away a rainy afternoon, listen to the soft patter of raindrops on the roof, and give our tired muscles some well-earned rest.

Cycling duo takes selfie on a bridge on their way to Lake Garda

Cyclists on the Urgen Bridge on their way to Lake Garda

Cyclist rides through Burgor in Altfinstermünz

Arriving at the Apple Orchards

The next morning, the sun shines again, and after a delicious breakfast and a warm farewell, we set off toward Merano. The bike path along the lake’s right side is delightful—gentle hills, with the shimmering water appearing again and again before us. In the distance, we spot the famous tower, a memorial to the villages submerged beneath the lake. From here on, we’ll follow the Adige Cycle Path all the way to Lake Garda. Soon, the mountainous landscape gives way to apple orchards. It’s harvest time: the trees are laden with fruit, the Adige gurgles cheerfully beside us, and snow-capped peaks rise behind.

Our first Italian pizza, combined with the warm sun, lifts our spirits even higher. Still, after just over 80 km (50 miles), we arrive in Merano thoroughly tired. A short stroll through the town is a must, but soon the cozy beds of the Merano City Hotel call us for a well-earned rest. In the evening, we soak up the charm of Bolzano on a leisurely stroll and savor incredibly delicious pasta paired with excellent house wine at Filo d’Olio.

Apple trees in front of Kastelbell Castle

Merano lettering on the Passer Promenade

From the Apples to Wine

The next morning, we enjoy a leisurely ride out of the city along the bike path. After the previous evening’s crowded streets, Bolzano now reveals its quiet, peaceful side. Gradually, we leave the town behind, and the mountains grow steeper and draw closer together. Apple trees slowly give way to vineyards, with the cheerful gurgle of the Adige flowing between them. Things turn almost picturesque at the next “traffic jam.” A huge flock of sheep blocks our path, so we push our bikes for a short stretch, savoring the view—the cutest traffic jam in the world.

The day flies by, and before we know it, we’re rolling into Trento. There’s plenty of history to admire here, and our appetites are more than ready. We quickly check into the centrally located HiHotel and set out to explore the surroundings. The main square, with its many restaurants, feels a bit too crowded, so we wander into the side streets instead. At Il Gusto Pizza & Drinks, we find some of the most delicious pizzas we’ve had so far.

Cyclists on the Adige Cycle Path in Salurn

Rental bikes under a tree along the Adige Cycle Path

Cyclist looks out over apple orchards in Merano

From Wine to Olives

The final kilometers literally fly by. A steep descent down a side road has us grinning from ear to ear as we’re suddenly back in the valley. Still, caution is important—there’s some traffic, even if it’s light. We’ve made it to Lake Garda! A hug and a hearty high-five are in order before we head to our accommodation and park our faithful, reliable companions of the past week one last time.

We spend a relaxing afternoon in the whirlpool at Hotel Paradiso Conca d’Oro and the sauna, both offering breathtaking views. Later, we reward ourselves with more incredibly delicious pizza and equally tasty wine at Ristorante Nuova Garda. It’s the perfect finale to a wonderful week of cycling through stunning landscapes that impress in any weather, paired with fantastic food, many soothing sauna sessions, and cozy beds we would gladly return to anytime.

My favorite spot

We glide through a peaceful forest, enjoying the sunlight sparkling between the trees as we make our way to a bridge over the Inn. Just beyond it, a breathtaking view unfolds: the river winding below, framed by towering mountains in the distance. We pause for a while, soaking in the scene. If it were a bit warmer, we’d surely dip our feet into the calm stretch of the river and as we linger, a rafting group speeds past on the swiftly flowing water. Towering peaks, the rushing river, gravel crunching underfoot, and the serene quiet of the forest—it’s pure perfection.