One reason our Lake Garda area is special for road cycling is because every direction leads to a new terrain – around the lake for a scenic flat road, south for very gently rolling hills through farmland, east for the Valpolicella hills and vineyards, and north to the mountains. But, our most epic ride, and one that many guests look forward to is the ride up Monte Baldo.

Monte Baldo is a mountain range in the Italian Alps and just about 30km from Garda Bike Hotel. The climb is about 2000 meters in 21 kilometers, with an average grade of 7% and a maximum of about 12%.  But more important than the numbers, the climb is just really beautiful.  It begins in Avio, through a wooded area shading the narrow road.  Switchback after switchback reveals changes to the terrain and scenery, and as the trees thin out you will start to notice rocks lining the sides of the road, then eventually pastures with cows and finally, as you wind your way to the top, you can look back and see the zig zag of road that you just climbed.  At the top, we stop for a bite to eat at a mountaintop restaurant, where we can sit outside and enjoy the view.  A little further down, you will have tremendous views of Lake Garda, the blue water is spectacular viewed from this elevation.  And the descent is graceful… with good pavement and sweeping turns, winding your way back down another path and back to Garda.  In all, this is a 131km ride. Not easy, but the experience is worth every bit of effort that you put in.