Famous Passes of the Dolomites
Date: _______ to _______
Terrain: Extreme | Daily Miles: 35-60
Difficulty Level: 5
$4,295
Between the famous ski resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo and the lake resort of Riva del Garda on Lake Garda, lie mountains which look like no others in Europe. La Corsa’s tour through the Dolomite Mountains puts you on the very famous cycling roads often included in the Giro d’Italia. If you're an advanced cyclist who loves serious climbing and screaming descents, nothing compares to the thrill of cycling the Dolomites. Enjoy the stuff experienced cyclists read, watch and dream about. Soaring, snow-capped granite peaks will surround you, as you ride on velvet-smooth pavement past cool blue, glacial lakes and descend into green valleys. Test your limits as you follow in the tracks of Coppi, Bartoli, Merckxx and other legendary bike racers of cycling history. Why just watch it when you can ride it?
Stage One • Trento - Lago di Cei Loop Ride. 50 miles - 2,600 feet. A beautiful spin headed south on the bike path loosens up your legs in preparation for a tough 10K climb up to Cimone and Lago di Cei. You may have difficulty enjoying the exhilarating descent because you'll want to stop at every switchback to take pictures of the breathtaking views. Don't forget your camera! Past guests have enjoyed this ride so much they often do it a second time at the conclusion of our trip.
Stage Two •Trento to Canazei. 40 miles - 5364 feet. North we go on the bike path and then along the scenic Weinstrausse as we head into the heart of the "Dolomiti". We'll climb to the charming town of Moena for lunch before continuing on to Canazei where we'll stay in a luxurious chalet-style hotel. Pace yourself today- tommorrow's a toughie!
Stage Three • The Gruppo di Selle. 39 miles - 6760 feet. The most famous passes. The most famous road. Today you ride the stuff legends are made of, the Pordoi, the Campolungo, the Gardegna and the Sella. See how you fare on the road where dreams are made or shattered.
Stage Four • Canazei to Cortina. 40 miles - 5675 feet. Add the detour to Corvara and Passo di Giau for even more miles and climbing. Our ride takes us along the classic Grand Strada delle Dolomiti. With the glacial Marmolada soaring above you, ride to the town of Corvara and then attack the Falzorego before dropping down to attempt the Giau. Arrive in Cortina feeling like a pro at the end of a stage.
Stage Five • Cortina to Dobbiaco. 21 miles - 500 - 1000 feet. There are two routes to the train station in Dobbiaco. Both are approximately 21 miles but one is reasonably flat while the other has a stiff little climb. Both offer lovely views of the Tre Cime. Whichever one you choose will depend on how much you want to challenge yourself on this, your "rest" day. You'll meet up with the support van at the train station where you can grab a change of clothing before climbing aboard the train to Bolzano. The van will meet you at the hotel in Bolzano with the rest of your luggage.
Stage Six • Bolzano to Malè. 51 miles - 6004 feet. Today we climb the famous Passo Mendola on a road that winds its way up a seemingly vertical wall of rock. Arrive in Cles for a visit to Fondriest’s bike shop which is like a museum of cycling memorabilia. Spend the evening in the lovely town of Malè.
Stage Seven • Malè to Comano Terme. 44 miles - 4265 feet. On our way to Madonna di Campiglio we climb the Campo Carlo Magno and take a break under the ski lifts. Continue down the valley to Pinzolo and discover the little known roads where the cycling greats train. Arrive at our hotel in the spa town of Comano Terme and treat yourself to a jacuzzi, swim and massage.
Stage Eight • Comano Terme to Roverto. 45 miles - 5741 feet. The Passo Ballino takes us past Lago Toblino and on to Lake Garda where we visit Moser’s shop in Arco. Then it's time for the final challenge as we climb the heights of Mt. Velo on our way to Rovereto. Celebrate our accomplishments tonight in the exciting town.
Stage Nine • Roverto to Trento. 20 miles. Climb up into the resort areas of Serrada and Folgaria and admire the beautiful chalet style resort hotels. After cresting our last famous pass, the Passo di Sommo, we enjoy a fabulous descent back to Trento where we'll celebrate our week with one of La Corsa's famous closing night dinners.
Stage Ten • Optional Closing Loop It's hard to believe after a week of challenging rides that people could possibly still want more, but this trip is so spectacular that some folks just can't help themselves. The Lago di Cei loop can be repeated for those who want to see how much their fitness level has improved since Stage One, or you can opt instead for a more relaxing spin along the tranquil bike path to Rovereto, for a visit to the WWI museum. Don't forget to leave enough time to see the Castle di Buon Consiglio in Trento - your trip would not be complete without it.
Early Bird Special - Sign up for Famous Passes of the Dolomites before midnight, December 31, 2006, and get 10% off!
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