Bike Days in the Dolomites: Europe's Best-Kept Cycling Secret
Discover the magical world of car-free cycling through UNESCO World Heritage mountain passes, where septuagenarian Italians on vintage racing bikes leave you in their dust
TL;DR
Enjoy car-free cycling on legendary Dolomite mountain passes during special bike-only events.
Experience iconic routes such as Sella Ronda Bike Day and Dolomites Bike Day, offering stunning Alpine scenery without vehicle traffic.
Encounter spirited septuagenarian Italians effortlessly conquering climbs on vintage racing bikes.
Benefit from inclusive cycling culture welcoming e-bikes and riders of all skill levels.
Stay at luxurious, bike-friendly hotels with gourmet dining and extensive wellness amenities.
Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites at a leisurely, human-paced rhythm, fully immersing yourself in nature.
Delight in local culinary traditions, enjoying South Tyrolean specialties, regional wines, and unique cocktails.
Participate in a transformative travel experience, emphasizing sustainable tourism, community spirit, and genuine cultural connection.
Table of Contents
Climbing to the Campolongo pass from Corvara
Picture this: You're pedaling through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery on Earth, breathing crisp Alpine air instead of exhaust fumes, hearing only the whisper of wind and the rhythmic clicking of derailleurs. No honking horns, no diesel trucks thundering past mere inches from your handlebars. Just you, your bike, and the towering spires of the Dolomites reaching toward an impossibly blue sky.
This isn't a fantasy - it is the reality of several “Bike Days” in the Italian Dolomites, Europe's most spectacular cycling events that most travelers have never heard of. As someone who's experienced both the Sella Ronda Bike Day and the Dolomites Bike Day, I can tell you these events represent something profound: the rare opportunity to experience legendary mountain passes exactly as they were meant to be experienced—slowly, quietly, and with deep appreciation for the natural world around you.
I'm sharing this insider knowledge because these events embody everything I love about European travel: they're brilliantly organized, culturally rich, surprisingly accessible, and absolutely transformative. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or someone who hasn't been on a bike since childhood, these car-free days in the Dolomites will reshape how you think about both cycling and travel.
But let me warn you upfront: after experiencing the Dolomites this way, you'll never want to drive these passes again. Er, maybe on a motorcycle, but let’s save that for another day. The mountains deserve to be enjoyed without noisy engines - you deserve it too.
The Sella Ronda Bike Day, now in its 19th edition, takes place twice each summer - this year on June 7 and September 13, 2025. From 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM, all the Dolomites passes around the Sella Group (Sella, Gardena, Pordoi, and Campolongo) are reserved exclusively for bicyclists. It’s a 53-kilometer loop that any serious cyclist must complete at least once.
Let me paint you a picture: Imagine cycling up the legendary Passo Sella, that iconic ribbon of road that snakes through limestone towers, without a single car in sight. The silence is profound—broken only by the gentle hum of your wheels, the distant tinkle of cowbells, and the occasional “Hallo”, "Buongiorno!", “Ciao” or, if you’re lucky, “Bun dé” from fellow cyclists. During the event, all traffic is barred from crossing the Dolomite Passes, creating a cycling paradise that feels almost surreal in its perfection.
Sella Ronda Bike Day Course
Here's where things get interesting - and slightly humbling. I showed up on my trusty German-made Cube e-bike, feeling quite modern and well-equipped. Within the first hour, I was passed by a gloriously tanned gentleman who appeared to be in his mid-seventies, riding what looked like a racing bike from the height of the disco era. His legs were carved from decades of Alpine cycling, and he disappeared up the climb with the casual ease and sprezzatura of an Italian man wearing loafers with no socks.
It put me in my place and made me smile. I might obsess over zee effortless shifting and perfect balance of my teutonic e-Bike, but Italian nonni are simply cycling. It's a beautiful reminder that sometimes the best approach is the simplest one.
Südtiroler children, of course, are in a category of their own. Kids who've grown up in these mountains treat 15% gradients like playground equipment. They zip past with the casual confidence that comes from having the Dolomites as their backyard. I found myself simultaneously inspired and slightly intimidated by their fearless approach to the descents.
Speaking of descents, let’s talk about the real spectacle of Italian cycling: the downhill. I tend to descend cautiously, two fingers on the brakes and taking corners with the measured approach of someone who learned to fear lawsuits. Italians descend like they're racing in the Giro d'Italia.
You hear them coming before you see them—a distinctive "zzzzzeeeeeee" that starts as a whisper and builds to a crescendo as they approach. Then they flash past in a blur of lycra and pure Alpine audacity, leaning into corners at speeds that would impress Valentino Rossi. It's simultaneously terrifying and magnificent to witness.
The first time this happened to me, I instinctively pulled over, assuming I was about to witness a spectacular crash. Instead, I watched a perfectly executed descent that filled me with envy … that, and gratitude for being alive. The rider disappeared around the next bend, leaving only the echo of his achievement and my profound respect.
One of the most delightful aspects of the Sella Ronda Bike Day is the stops. This isn't a race - it's a journey. Along the route, cyclists pull over at mountain huts and cafés for espresso (obviously), homemade pizza and pasta, and animated conversation.
The atmosphere is festive, communal, and deeply satisfying in a way that's hard to capture in words. There's something magical about stopping for a cornetto (that’s Italian for croissant, by the way) from a food truck halfway up a mountain pass, surrounded by fellow cyclists from across Europe, all sharing the same sense of wonder at finding themselves in this extraordinary place. These moments remind you why travel—real travel—is always about the connections we make and the stories we collect.
While the Sella Ronda Bike Day circles the Sella Group, the Dolomites Bike Day offers a different but equally spectacular experience. The DBD is a 51 km long hug between Alta Badia and Livinallongo, as one local cyclist beautifully described it. From 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., the pass roads Campolongo, Falzarego, and Valparola are closed to traffic and reserved exclusively for cyclists.
This year’s event, scheduled for June 21, 2025, provides a great opportunity to experience some of the legendary stages of the famous Italian Giro d'Italia bicycle race. The route connects some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Dolomites, including the imposing Mt. Lagazuoi, where Alpine battles were fought during World War I.
Here's what I love about European cycling culture: it's refreshingly inclusive. The 51km loop is open to anyone: professionals, amateurs, youngsters, and beginners. You don’t need to register - just show up. E-bikes are welcome, of course. The experience isn’t about athletic superiority—it's about shared experience and mutual respect for the mountains.
As with the Sella Ronda Bike Day, our e-bike choice proved wise, particularly when I found myself pedaling alongside cyclists ranging from Olympic-level athletes to families with young children. The electric assist didn't make me faster than the septuagenarian Italian racing legends, but it did allow me to fully appreciate the scenery instead of focusing solely on not having a heart attack or collapsing.
Cycling through the UNESCO Dolomite passes between Veneto and South Tyrol provides a perspective that's impossible to achieve from a car. The scale of these mountains only becomes apparent when you're moving at human speed, when you can stop to truly observe the geological drama unfolding around you.
The Dolomites are composed of ancient coral reefs, pushed skyward by tectonic forces and carved by glaciers into the otherworldly spires we see today. When you're cycling through this landscape, you become part of its story - a tiny but significant presence in an environment that has been shaped by millions of years of natural forces.
An essential part of the experience is staying at a luxurious hotel offering superb amenities tailored for cyclists, easy access to the marked cycling routes, exceptional dining experiences, and inviting wellness facilities for ultimate relaxation.
Source: © Posta Zirm Hotel
After a day of cycling through the Dolomites, you deserve accommodation that matches the magnificence of your adventure. The Posta Zirm Hotel in Corvara has been my base of operations for multiple cycling seasons, and it exemplifies everything I love about Alpine hospitality.
The hotel offers exceptional half-board service, with breakfast and dinner that celebrate the best of Südtirol cuisine. Request a double room or larger suite - several have spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, large balconies, and alpine-chic open floorplans.
The bike room is a cyclist's dream, with secure storage, a workbench, maintenance tools, and washing facilities that clearly demonstrate the hotel's deep understanding of cycling culture.
After a day in a small saddle, the wellness center truly sets the Posta Zirm apart. Few things beat the traditional Alpine sauna experience. The Wellness-Farm is 950 m² (10,200 ft²) Feng-Shui sanctuary of chill well-being. Guests can enjoy a Finnish Sauna at 90°C (194°F), frigidarium 12°C (53°F) with cold water and ice bucket, aroma showers with essential oils, relaxation area, tepidarium 39°C (102°F) for deep relaxation, calidarium, infrared cabin, swimming-pool area, showers, water stream, geyser, waterfall, neck-waterfall and whirlpool. The Posta Zirm also offers a myriad of beauty and body treatments, from hair removal (you’ll cycle faster) to massages. There are even special treatments for your feet developed by Italian doctor professors.
Book directly with the Posta Zirm Hotel for the best offers
© Eat Drink Fun LLC - View to the Monta Rosa from the Hotel Cristallo pool.
Hotel Cristallo between Corvara and La Villa-Stern offers a similar commitment to cycling excellence, with excellent bike storage and maintenance facilities and a sprawling high-end wellness experience. The half-board dining showcases the incredible fusion cuisine of this region, where South Tirolean specialties blend Italian sophistication with Austrian heartiness.
The heated outdoor pool with various jet massagers offers stunning views of the Monte Rosa, which as the name suggests, turns red at sunset. Families with children have their own pool and play area, which comes as a nice perk for those without kids who want a calmer wellness experience.
Book directly with Hotel Cristallo for the best offers
Both hotels understand that cycling tourism represents a sophisticated form of travel. Their guests aren't just tourists; they're adventurers who appreciate quality, comfort, and cultural authenticity. The staff speak multiple languages, understand international cycling culture, and provide the kind of personalized service that makes European hospitality legendarily excellent.
The beauty of these events is that they require minimal preparation beyond basic fitness and equipment. Both events are free, non-competitive cycling events, open to cyclists of all levels. Registration details are available on the respective websites, but don't wait—these events attract thousands of cycling enthusiasts from across Europe.
If you're traveling from North America, I recommend arriving a few days early to adjust to the time zone and altitude. The Dolomites sit at elevation, and even experienced cyclists can feel the difference in oxygen levels.
The food and drink culture of the Dolomites deserves its own article, but here are the essential elements that will enhance your cycling experience:
Wines of Südtirol Alto-Adige
This region produces some of Italy's most distinctive wines, thanks to the unique combination of Mediterranean and Alpine influences. The white wines - particularly Gewürztraminer and Pinot Grigio - are crisp and refreshing, here - quite distinct from their Alsatian counterparts. They are perfect for après-cycling celebrations. The red wines, including Lagrein and Schiava, offer a dynamic range of complexity, from rich and bold to light and fruity. Both pairs beautifully with the hearty mountain cuisine. Order the Lagrein with beef and game, and the Schiava (sometimes chilled) for hard cheeses and Südtiroler speck, the wonderful dried and smoked ham (like prosciutto, but more elevated … .iterally).
The Hugo Cocktail
Lady riders, like lady skiers in winter, particularly favor this refreshing cocktail made with Prosecco, elderflower liqueur or syrup, fresh mint, and sparkling water. It's become the unofficial cocktail of Südtirol, and after a day in the mountains, it tastes like liquid sunshine.
Aperitivo Hour
The Italian tradition of aperitivo hour translates beautifully to cycling culture. After 50+ kilometers (30+ miles), it will be close enough to 5 PM for drinks and small plates, creating a social atmosphere that celebrates the day's achievements.
The restaurants throughout the Dolomites serve traditional Ladin dishes that reflect the region's unique cultural heritage. Ladin cuisine combines Italian techniques with Austrian ingredients, creating comfort food that's perfect for hungry cyclists.
Don't miss the Tyrolean specialties: handmade dumplings (knödel) that come in dozens of varieties, Südtiroler speck (the region's distinctive smoked ham), and local cheeses that have been perfected over centuries. These aren't just meals—they're cultural experiences that connect you to the deep traditions of Alpine life.
After overindulging in the incredible mountain cuisine (which happens to everyone), I was presented with a local Kümmel schnapps - a caraway seed-based digestive that works like magic to eliminate gas and flatulence. It works. One small glass after dinner, and even the most overwhelming feast becomes manageable. It's the kind of practical European wisdom that makes you wonder why we haven't widely embraced such sensible solutions from the old world.
These Sella Ronda and Dolomites bike days offer something rare in modern travel: authentic cultural immersion. You're not observing from behind car windows or bus glass. You are participating in a celebration that locals have embraced for nearly two decades. The conversations, the shared struggles up climbs, the mutual appreciation for spectacular descents—these create connections that transform a cycling event into a cultural exchange.
I've made friends from Germany, Austria, Italy, and beyond during these events. There's something about sharing physical challenges in a beautiful environment that transcends language barriers and cultural differences. You discover that the love of cycling, mountains, and good food creates a sense of community that's both welcoming and inspiring.
A quick note - that same community drops all their clothes in the sauna. Be advised that “textilfrei” (textile free) means you are politely asked to remove your swimsuit and grab towels to enjoy the saunas and adult wellness areas. Europeans in the Alps have approximately zero hangups about being naked in the sauna (it’s more hygienic). Embrace this cultural norm. If you can’t muster up the courage to remove your suit, you can still enjoy the pool.
These bike days represent something profound: a vision of how we might interact with natural environments in more sustainable ways. When cars are banned from these passes, the mountains return to their natural state—quiet, clean, and peaceful. The contrast is so stark that it makes you question why we ever thought it was acceptable to fill these sacred spaces with combustion engines.
The environmental impact is immediate and obvious. The air is cleaner, the noise pollution disappears, and wildlife becomes more visible. It's a powerful demonstration of what's possible when we prioritize experience over convenience.
These events also represent a more thoughtful approach to tourism. Instead of rushing through landscapes to check items off a bucket list, participants slow down and truly experience the environment. The physical effort required to climb these passes creates a deeper appreciation for the achievement and the beauty.
This is tourism as it should be: respectful, sustainable, and transformative. You leave these events with a profound connection to the landscape and culture, rather than just a collection of super cool selfies that look like you dropped in an AI background.
In an era of increasing political division, these cycling events create spaces where people from different countries, backgrounds, and generations come together around shared values: respect for nature, appreciation for physical challenge, and love of beautiful places.
I've watched Austrian grandparents encourage young Italian cyclists, seen German families share snacks with American tourists, and witnessed countless moments of international kindness and camaraderie. These events remind us that what unites us is far stronger than what divides us.
The Dolomites are easily accessible from major European cities. If you're flying internationally, Innsbruck (2hrs), Venice (3.5hrs), and Munich (4hrs) are the most convenient airports. Trains will get you close with bus connections delivering you the last miles - another example of European infrastructure that prioritizes accessibility over car dependence. But if you want to rent a car it’s also a nice way to visit the harder to reach places en route. Private transfers are also an option.
For North American travelers, I recommend building these events into a longer European adventure. I should mention that hiking in the Dolomites is sublime - many locals prefer the summer season to winter as far as activities are concerned. The timing of these bicycle events works perfectly with the US summer travel season, and the location in northern Italy provides great access to other Alpine regions.
Bike rentals, including e-bikes, are available for those who prefer not to travel with their own equipment. The quality is excellent, and the staff understand international cycling standards and preferences.
If you're bringing your own bike, European airlines are generally more accommodating of cycling equipment than their American counterparts. Again, a reflection of cultural attitudes toward cycling as legitimate transportation and recreation.
The Dolomites offer incredible cycling opportunities throughout the summer season. The bike days provide an introduction to the region, but there are countless other routes, climbs, and adventures waiting for those who catch the Alpine cycling bug.
Consider extending your stay to explore the wine regions, hiking trails, and cultural sites that make this area so special. The investment in time and money pays dividends in experiences and memories that last a lifetime.
The Sella Ronda and Dolomites Bike Days represent everything I love about European travel culture: they're well-organized, environmentally conscious, culturally rich, and absolutely transformative. They offer the rare opportunity to experience some of the world's most spectacular landscapes in the way they were meant to be experienced—slowly, quietly, and with deep appreciation.
These events will challenge your assumptions about cycling, travel, and what's possible when communities prioritize experience over convenience. They'll introduce you to an international community of people who share your values and appreciation for beautiful places. And they'll provide memories and stories that will enhance your life for years to come.
But beyond the personal benefits, these events offer a vision of what tourism could be: sustainable, respectful, and mutually enriching for both visitors and local communities. They demonstrate that the best travel experiences often come from slowing down, participating actively, and connecting authentically with places and people.
If you're ready to experience the Dolomites in a completely new way, to challenge yourself physically while feeding your soul spiritually, then these bike days are calling your name. The mountains are waiting, the community is welcoming, and the experience is guaranteed to be unforgettable.
The only question remaining is: are you ready to discover what you've been missing?
Ready to plan your own Dolomites cycling adventure? Contact Eat Drink Fun to design a bespoke Custom Adventure itinerary that incorporates these incredible bike days with world-class accommodations, wine experiences, and cultural immersion. As your Chief Ski Somm™, I'll ensure your Alpine adventure exceeds every expectation.
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Planning your European cycling season? Let's discuss how to optimize your travel for maximum adventure, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences. The Dolomites are just the beginning—there's an entire world of European cycling culture waiting to be discovered.
