Some friends and I are traveling to Pordenone, Italy for a track race and only plan on bringing the one bike, but want to rent a bike to ride around the area before the competition. Visiting the Dolomites seems like a requirement, but wondering if there are other areas worth exploring by bike while we are there.
Appreciate any and all suggestions for routes and advice for renting/riding bikes in this part of the world!
I was in the area last year with my wife, sister and her husband. Am afraid I can’t give you satisfying answers. But encouragement to go out there and explore! It’s well worth a visit.
We had been following the ciclovia pedemontana, at a very leisurely pace in our own bikes. This is an official bike path that arches along the foothills of the mountains. There are many other long distance paths that go into the mountains. I think its a good idea to stick to those cycling routes as much as possible as the traffic can be intense on roads. And go for a widish tire to find comfort on rough sections.
I was surprised to not come across any bigger bike shops even in a city like udine. So the renting probably need special research. Maybe reach out to the organizer of your event for help?
Dolomites are basically a must - Alleghe is great for any tour there including all the famous passes. The Monte Grappa mountain range just south of there is also worth a visit with the unique Passo di San Boldo. And of course Monte Zoncolan if you want to suffer. Or Piancavallo where the Giro went this year. If you need an inspiration check this overview on this great website (it’s in German but you can get it translated by your browser): Passkarte Pässelexikon Friaul - Julisch Venetien (Italien) für das Rennrad and Passkarte Pässelexikon Venetien (Italien) für das Rennrad
And it’s Italy, so renting a bike shouldn’t be a problem. It’s a cycling-crazy country with many many bike shops. And especially in the Dolomites it’s easy to find a rental. But try searching online in Italian or German (for the Dolomites).
so many great choices! Yes, Dolomites, but Monte Zoncolan also iconic and beautiful riding in Western Solvenia. I have had great experience renting from 2UE & 2UE Cortina Via ROMA n° 70 - Corso Italia n° 88
CORTINA D’ AMPEZZO 32043
Tel - Fax : 0436-4121-0436-861 349
P.I. 0097044 0251