Adige Bike Route

The Etsch Cycle Path has a length of over 345 kilometres from the start in Landeck to Verona. With the start at Reschen Pass and the finish in Verona, the length of the cycle path is approx. 280 kilometres. The cycle path section from the Reschen Pass to Merano is approx. 80 kilometres long. The Etsch Cycle Path largely follows the ancient Via Claudia Augusta road, which has a length of approx. 820 km (from Donauwörth to Verona).

The cycle route follows the historic Via Claudia Augusta and was the easiest and most important route across the Alps for the Romans. The cycle route leads from Landeck in Tyrol through the Upper Inn Valley, to Martina (Switzerland) and Nauders (Austria) on the Reschen Pass (Italy). The cycle path runs well maintained to Merano, on to Bolzano and Trento and on to Verona.

The best time to travel is from May to October. The high summer months (July-August) can be very hot in some sections and should possibly be avoided. Partial stages (from Schlanders-Silandro) can also be ridden in March if the weather is good.

It is difficult to say where the Adige Cycle Path is most beautiful, as this depends on personal preferences. However, here are some sections that many cyclists find particularly appealing:

• The section between the Reschen Pass and Bolzano (German: Bozen) offers spectacular views of the mountains (ex. Ortler) and valleys. There are also many historic towns and villages along the way, such as Glurns and Merano.
• The cycle path between Bolzano and Trento offers a varied landscape with vineyards, orchards and charming villages. The towns of Trento and Rovereto are also worth a visit.
• Near Verona, the cycle path leads through a picturesque landscape with hills, rivers and canals. Verona is famous for Renaissance architecture and works of art.

There are various ways to organise return transport at the end of your trip. Here are some options:

1. Return transport by train: Most towns along the Adige Cycle Path are well connected to the Italian rail network, so you can take your bike on a regional train. There is a train station in Verona with connections to many cities throughout Italy or to Innsbruck and Munich. It is advisable to make a reservation in advance for bicycle transport.
2. Return transport by bus: There are also bus companies that offer bicycle transport. Some buses have special bicycle trailers, while others allow bicycles to be transported on the bus itself.
3. Return transport with a shuttle service: There are bike shuttles that specialise in transporting cyclists and their bikes back home. Some hotels along the cycle path also offer a shuttle service for guests. These companies can organise the return transport from Verona back to Landeck.
4. Return transport by car: Have someone pick you up in Verona.

Whichever option you choose, it is important to plan your return transport in advance to avoid unnecessary stress at the end of your cycling trip.