A guide to the most interesting routes and events for cyclists on holiday in five Italian regions in a new guide from hu openair.
Veneto’s Mincio cycle path
The hu openair brand of the Human Company group has ten open-air facilities in Italy and Europe. The Veneto region with its evocative Prosecco hills, Lake Garda and historic art cities such as Verona and Vicenza, is also an ideal destination for cycling holiday lovers. One trail not to be missed by enthusiasts is the scenic Mincio cycle path which connects villages such as Valeggio and Borghetto on over 45 kilometres between Mantua and Peschiera del Garda. The hu Altomincio village, located along the banks of the river, is an excellent base for convenient access to the cycle path.
Discovering the Trentino Alto Adige’s nature
Trentino Alto Adige is famous for its imposing Dolomites and peaceful Alpine lakes and is among the top destinations for cycling tourism in Italy. The Valsugana cycle path is a stand- out route that passes through evocative landscapes and picturesque villages. Linking Trentino and Veneto it is ideal for a day of sport, discovery and contact with nature. The track stretches for about 80 kilometres from Pergine Valsugana, near Lake Caldonazzo, to Bassano del Grappa in Veneto, following the course of the Brenta river for a cycling experience to satisfy all skill levels.
Historic cycle events in Tuscany
Tuscany with its rolling hills, vineyards and centuries-old olive groves, is the perfect choice for lovers of nature, open spaces and cycling. The Setteponti road is a cycle route past typical villages, ancient religious buildings, terraced vineyards and olive groves. To comfortably explore the beauty of Tuscany stay in the village of Norcenni Girasole which is a few kilometres from Florence and framed by the Chianti hills. For cycling enthusiasts Gaiole del Chianti will host the 27th edition of the Eroica event on 5 and 6 October. This important and historical event will see the participation of cyclists wearing vintage or historically inspired clothing and racing on vintage bicycles. Then on 7 and 8 September the area will welcome the participants of the Marzocchina di San Giovanni Valdarno, a cycling tourism event that combines a passion for cycling with art and food and wine. Then on 21 and 22 September the Fiorino Mud gravel cycling event will be held, starting from Norcenni Girasole.
Lazio’s UNESCO-listed Appian Way
In addition to the capital, the Lazio region offers a variety of enchanting landscapes, from the Roman Hills to the volcanic lakes of Bracciano and Bolsena, and nature reserves such as the Circeo National Park. The ancient Appian Way – recently listed by UNESCO - is ideal for cycling with its Roman villas and catacombs in a green area removed from the bustling city centre. For a moment of relaxation and refreshment after cycling, the Fabulous Village is the ideal place to stay in a strategic location, halfway between the capital and the coast, from which numerous places of interest are easily accessible.
Umbria offers routes of all levels
Known as the green heart of Italy, the Umbria region is famous for its hills, forests and valleys. It offers countless opportunities for nature lovers such as the Sibillini Mountains National Park, Lake Trasimeno and the Marmore Waterfalls. Among the various cycling routes one suitable for all levels is the Tiber cycle route connecting Città di Castello to Perugia and running along the banks of the river. This almost completely flat itinerary runs through the landscapes of the Umbrian Valtiberina and alternates dirt stretches with others on paved roads with little traffic. Rich in medieval villages and ancient paths, this region is the perfect retreat for those seeking tranquillity and contact with nature. Five regions: five hu openair suggestions for cycling through Italy.
