Tour de Alps - To Cortina d'Ampezzo via Magic Mountains
SLOVENIA, ITALY AND AUSTRIA | E-MTB TOUR | GUIDED IN 2025
A truly epic mountain biking adventure awaits, stretching from the rugged beauty of the Julian Alps to the heart of the Dolomites. This route combines technical singletracks, old military roads, and remote trails that lead through breathtaking landscapes. Riders will traverse deep valleys, expansive plateaus, and charming alpine meadows, all while visiting traditional mountain huts and pastures. It's an experience that captures the essence of mountain biking in its purest form—connecting with untouched nature and soaking in the majesty of the Alps.
A mountain biking tour that connects Lake Bled with Cortina d'Ampezzo offers a breathtaking journey through the Julian Alps, Carnic Alps, and Dolomites. This multi-day mtb enduro adventure is filled with scenic trails that highlight the unique blend of alpine culture and stunning natural beauty. Each stage of the tour provides its own charm, with flowing singletracks, historical paths, and panoramic views, weaving together an unforgettable alpine cycling experience.
Begin your adventure with thrilling day tours around Lake Bled and Julian Alps, immersing yourself in the beauty of the surroundings. Then, embark on the exciting east-west crossing of the Julian Alps, Carnic Alps and Dolomites, exploring its most remarkable spots while enjoying the comfort of charming, high alpine mountain huts for restful nights.
Facts | Tour
- Duration: 9 days | 8 nights
- Activity: E-Mountain Biking | MTB Bike
- Length: 380 km | Elevation: Climb total: +9.800 to 10.800 m
- Grade: Moderate | Challenge
- Accommodation: Small botique Hotels and Mountain huts.
- Open dates for groups: From August 15th to September 15th (Self guided)
- Date: June 14th - June 22rd, 2025
- Start of the tour: Arrival city is Bled, Slovenia.
- End of the tour: Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy
- Price: 1.985,00 €/person - guided tour (min. 6 bikers) | Promotional price for the first bike tour! Original price: 2.285,00€/person
- Note: This mountain biking tour involves riding through remote and rugged terrains.
This is a completely fresh epic mtb tour that we have put on the market in 2025. We will carry out the first guided tour in June 2025, and we will start with self guided tours in 15th august 2025.
1.985,00 €
9 Days
Mountain Biking
INFORMATION
Difficulty: Moderate/Challenge
Bike skill level: Intermediate 4 /5
Bike fitness level: Level 5-6 /7
EXPERIENCE
This multi-day mtb tour is filled with scenic trails that highlight the unique blend of alpine culture and stunning natural beauty.
WHEN TO GO / DATE
June 14th - June 21st, 2025 (guided)
START / END LOCATION
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Cortina dAmpezzo, Italy
LAKE BLED
AROUND ALPINE LAKE RIDING - "Warm-Up"
An introduction to this exceptional tour starts in the Lake Bled area, considered the active capital of the Julian Alps and the gateway to Triglav National Park. On this day, participants will get to know each other and embark on a warm-up mountain biking tour along nearby trails and gravel paths following the Sava River.
Itinerary:
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- Afternoon introductory meeting in Bled - "face to face meeting with guide"
- Self guided warm-up riding around lake Bled, Sava river, Radovna valley, ... | Today's tour is arranged in the way of a gpx file and navigation via the app ... | More options for riders.
- Hotel ***/****, Lake Bled
- Approximately: 18-25 km | +450m - 650m | 2-3 hours
LAKE BLED TO KRANJSKA GORA
JULIAN ALPS AND TRIGLAV NATIONAL PARK RIDING
The first stage takes you from Lake Bled to Kranjska Gora, offering an incredible journey through the heart of the Julian Alps and Triglav National Park. This route seamlessly connects two of the most picturesque alpine towns, providing a memorable experience of breathtaking valleys, crystal-clear rivers, and serene lakes. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by towering peaks, lush forests, and charming alpine villages, making it an ideal introduction to the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
Itinerary:
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- Breakfast in the hotel.
- Stage 01: Riding mtb bike from Lake Bled to Kranjska Gora via Julian Alps area.
- 65km | + 1.700m, -1.700m | Gravel roads, some trails, ...
- Family run Hotel ***/****, Kranjska Gora.
KRANJSKA GORA TO RIFFUGIO NORDIO DEFFAR
TRUE MOUNTAIN CHALLENGE RIDE
The second stage traverses the Three-border area where Slovenia, Italy, and Austria converge. From this unique junction, the route descends into the Italian valley beneath the famed Monte Lussari. Next comes a climb into the Carnic Alps, with stunning vistas of green slopes, alpine pastures, and traditional mountain huts. The final descent is quite technical, leading to a mountain hut where a warm meal and lodging await. This stage offers an exciting mix of terrains and destinations, showcasing the diverse beauty and culture of these three alpine regions.
Itinerary:
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- Breakfast in the hotel, Kranjska Gora.
- Stage 02: Riding bike from Kranjska Gora to Nordio Deffar mountain hut via Three borders, Travisio, Bistrizza pastures ...
- 55km | + 2.100m, -1.600m | Gravel roads, some great trails, ...
- Rifugio Nordio Deffar ***/**** (1420m)
RIFUGIO NORDIO DEFFAR TO NASSFELD
AN EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCE OF THE CARNIC ALPS
This stage begins at a high-altitude mountain hut, offering an invigorating start amidst the peaks. The defining characteristic of this course is its sustained elevation, traversing the scenic slopes of the Carnic Alps. Riders will pedal through lush alpine pastures and descend along several beautiful yet technically demanding trails. A highlight is the stunning traverse on a single track, linking the eastern section of the Carnic Alps with the Nassfeld region in the central part. It's an exhilarating day filled with breathtaking views and thrilling mountain biking, all while immersed in the high alpine environment.
Itinerary:
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- Breakfast in the mountain hut..
- Stage 03: Riding bike from Nordio Deffar mountain hut to Nassfeld via ...
- 45km | + 1.500m, -1.650m | Alpine gravel roads, trails, one great single trail ... traverse ...
- Small Hotel in Nassfeld ***/****
NASSFELD TO ZOLLNERSEE HUTTE
DISCOVERING EXCEPTIONAL MOUNTAIN PASTURES
This day promises to be an extraordinary mountain biking experience. It's characterized by its highly varied and dynamic terrain, offering a mix of challenging ascents and thrilling descents through the stunning alpine landscapes of the Carnic Alps. The region's natural beauty shines brightly, captivating riders with its dramatic vistas and unspoiled charm.
The final section of the stage leads to a picturesque plateau, guiding you past the serene Zollnersee lake toward the charming Zollnersee mountain hut. This small, authentic refuge is renowned for its warm hospitality, excellent local cuisine, and an atmosphere that feels both intimate and genuine. Truly, an unforgettable day on the trails!
Itinerary:
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- Breakfast in the hotel.
- Stage 04 | Riding bike from Nassfeld to Zollnersee hutte via ...
- 50km | + 1.900m, -1.800m | Alpine gravel roads, trails, single trail ...
- Accommodation and dinner in Mountain hut - Zollnersee hutte ***
ZOLLNERSEE HUTTE TO RIGOLATO
THROUGH THE HIGH PASSES TO THE CONTACT WITH THE DOLOMITES
We begin the day's ride from the mountain hut, passing by the scenic Zollnersee lake toward Passo Pecol (1,797m). From the pass, we descend to the first Italian alpine hut, where the adventure truly kicks off. The course offers a mix of dynamic terrain, featuring thrilling singletracks and technical challenges.
As we head west, the journey continues over diverse trails that weave through the stunning alpine scenery, gradually bringing us closer to the valley. This stage is not for the faint-hearted—it demands skill, endurance, and a passion for exploring rugged mountain landscapes. An exhilarating and rewarding day for any avid mountain biker!
Itinerary:
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- Breakfast in the mountain huts.
- Stage 05 | Riding bike from Zollnersee mountain hut to Rigolato via ...
- 52km | + 2.200m, -2.700m | Alpine gravel roads, trails, single trail ...
- Accommodation in botique apartment Rigolato ***
RIGOLATO TO AURONZO DI CADORE
MAGICAL FEELING RIDING TROUGH STUNNING LANDSCAPE
A day designed for true cycling connoisseurs. This stage offers a mix of urban and natural landscapes, a welcome change after several days spent predominantly in the mountains. Riders will navigate flowing trails, explore expansive alpine pastures, and descend through scenic valleys.
The route provides an exceptional variety of cycling experiences, blending well-maintained trails with breathtaking views of the towering Dolomite peaks. This day promises dynamic terrain and a balanced mix of challenge and relaxation, perfect for enjoying both nature and culture.
Itinerary:
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- Breakfast in the mountain huts.
- Stage 06 | Riding from Rigolato to Auronzo di Cadore via ...
- 62km | + 2.200m, -1.950m | Alpine gravel roads, trails, single trail ...
- Accommodation in small hotel/apartment Auronzo di Cadore ***
AURONZO DI CADORE TO CORTINA D'AMPEZZO
PURE DOLOMITE MTB POETRY
This final stage of Trans Alpina is the crown jewel of the journey, offering an unforgettable experience. You'll ride amidst the towering spires of the Dolomites, including the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo. The trails provide a perfect blend of technical challenge and breathtaking scenery, ideal for passionate mountain bikers. The ride culminates in a thrilling descent into Cortina d'Ampezzo, known as the "Queen of the Dolomites." This stage is a masterpiece for any mountain biking enthusiast, delivering unparalleled views and an epic sense of accomplishment.
Itinerary:
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- Breakfast in the hotel.
- Stage 07 | Riding bike from Auronzo Di Cadore to Cortina d'Ampezzo via Tre Cime di Lavaredo park ...
- 48km | +1.950m, -1.780m | Alpine gravel roads, trails, single trail ...
- Accommodation in hotel Cortina d'Ampezzo ***
CORTINA D'AMPEZZO
PURE DOLOMITE MTB POETRY
Itinerary:
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- Breakfaast in hotel.
WHY CHOOSE THIS EPIC MTB TOUR?
- Stunning mountain scenery of the Alps.
- Unique single trails and gravel biking roads in Triglav National Park.
- Discovering the unique Three Cime di Lavaredo in the heart of Dolomites.
- An exceptional multi-day tour that connects a mountain huts - a unique adventure.
- Enjoy riding on rideable and distant trails and alpine gravel roads in the most beautiful part of Dolomites, Carnic and Julian Alps.
- Experience the towering peaks and lush, almost surreal greenery of the unique Carnic Alps.
- Beautiful alpine towns of Cortina d'Ampezzo, Lake Bled, Kranjska Gora, Avronzo di Cadore, Sappada ...
- Stay in charming alpine huts accommodations.
- Taste the richness of the Alpine culinary.
- Together with the help of many bikers on the route/trail, we arranged the tour into a unique and best option. Just for you!
- Only the best mountain biking itinerary prepared by us - 25 years of experiences.
STORY ABOUT TOUR DE ALPS
The story behind this extraordinary mountain biking tour spans decades. It all started over twenty years ago when we, a group of friends, began exploring the Dolomites' trails. These stunning mountains drew us not only for their cycling routes but also for their iconic vertical walls, where we spent many days climbing. However, over time, mountain biking - enduro gradually took precedence over climbing.
Later, we turned our attention to the Carnic Alps, a lesser-known but equally captivating range stretching from west to east. These mountains offered remote trails and pristine nature, becoming a new favorite. Meanwhile, the Julian Alps—our home turf—remained a constant, a landscape where we knew every trail and hidden gem.
Eventually, an idea emerged: why not combine all these magnificent mountain ranges into a single, epic mountain biking adventure? Thus was born the concept of a tour linking Lake Bled, the gateway to the Julian Alps, with Cortina d'Ampezzo and the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo in the Dolomites. This route merges breathtaking natural beauty with the rich culture of the Alps, creating a journey that is as diverse as it is unforgettable.
We took our time refining the route, exploring every corner of these majestic ranges, and soaking in the experience of mountain huts, where camaraderie and mountain culture thrive. There were moments of pure enjoyment, but also physically demanding sections that tested our limits. After countless hours of pedaling, planning, and tweaking, we crafted what we believe is the ultimate mountain biking tour—a seamless journey through some of the most stunning landscapes the Alps have to offer.
This tour stands out as one of the finest mountain biking experiences in this part of the Alps, possibly even beyond. However, it’s not for the faint-hearted. Due to the challenging terrain and significant elevation gain, I highly recommend using an electric full-suspension mountain bike. It makes tackling steep climbs more manageable and ensures a safe, enjoyable descent on trails and mountain paths.
For anyone embarking on this adventure, I’ll be cheering you on, even with a hint of envy, especially if I’m not there to share the experience.
Matei,
October 15th, 2024
TOUR DE ALPS MAP
PRICE INCLUDES | EXCLUDES | GUIDED TOURS
Included in the price:
- Full organisation of the mountain biking tour.
- Introductory briefing on day 1 with a welcome drink (with guide, other staff).
- Guidance from fully- qualified, experienced and local guides.
- Tour LIFE Booklet with detailed itinerary.
- GPS routes/tracks (all stages - all days) - for original courses.
- Emergency contact number and 24/7 support.
- 5 nights in 3/4* private accommodation with breakfast (5)
- 2 nights in mountain huts accommodation with breakfast and dinner (2)
- Luggage transfer between accommodations from day 2 to 8.
- Tourist tax and VAT.
Price excludes:
- Travel to the start point of the tour.
- Food and drinks: all food and drinks, except breakfast and dinner in huts.
- Items of personal nature.
- Travel Insurance.
- Tips for locals, guides, ...
- Bikes and bike equipment.
Surcharges:
- High season (July 15th to August 15th): 220 €/person
Optional extras:
- Single room supplement (single room): 350 €/person (in mountain huts, single rooms are generally not available).
Bike rental:
- Trek Marlin 7 or Canyon Grand Canyon: 30€/day/bike
- Fully bike Specialized Stumpjumper FSR: 50€/day/bike
- E-MTb Trek Powerfly 5: 45€/day/bike
- E-MTb Fully Trek Powerfly FS +4: 50€/day/bike
- E-MTb Fully Specialized Turbo Levo: 60€/day/bike
- Bikepacking seat bag (Ortlieb) or backpack (BD): 50 €/bike/tour
* Bike rental includes: bike rental with helmet, lock, pump, spare tube, chain lube and repair kit.
PRICE INCLUDES | EXCLUDES | SELF GUIDED TOUR
Included in the price:
- Full organisation of the mountain biking tour.
- Introductory briefing in Lake Bled on day 1 (morning or afternoon) - face to face.
- Self Guided LIFE Booklet with detailed itinerary and route instructions, transfers with timetables and details with all vouchers for accommodations, private transfers, ...
- GPX routes/tracks (all stages).
- APP for navigation (login with phone or tablet).
- Emergency contact number and 24/7 support.
- Daily collaboration and tracking on the communication app - additional customer support.
- 6 nights in 3/4* private accommodation with breakfast (5)
- 2 nights in mountain huts accommodation with breakfast and dinner (2)
- Private luggage transfer between accommodations from day 2 to 8.
- Tourist tax and VAT.
Price excludes:
- Travel to the start point of the tour.
- Food and drinks: all food and drinks, except breakfast and dinner in huts.
- Items of personal nature.
- Travel Insurance.
- Tips for locals, guides, ...
- Bikes and bike equipment.
Surcharges:
- High season (July 15th to August 15th): 220 €/person
Optional extras:
- Single room supplement (single room): 350 €/person (in mountain huts, single rooms are generally not available).
Bike rental:
- Trek Marlin 7 or Canyon Grand Canyon: 30€/day/bike
- Fully bike Specialized Stumpjumper FSR: 50€/day/bike
- E-MTb Trek Powerfly 5: 45€/day/bike
- E-MTb Fully Trek Powerfly FS +4: 50€/day/bike
- E-MTb Fully Specialized Turbo Levo: 60€/day/bike
- Bikepacking seat bag (Ortlieb) or backpack (BD): 50 €/bike/tour
* Bike rental includes: bike rental with helmet, lock, pump, spare tube, chain lube and repair kit.
NOTE: We will carry out the first self-guided tour from August 15th, 2025.
Every company needs a responsible person behind the scenes. Every cycling tour needs a person who knows the destination, who knows more about cycling, who is also a passionate cyclist and dedicated to cycling. Matej, who has been working in cycling for two decades, is there for you and with you on your biking tour. He has excellent knowledge of destinations in Slovenia, Croatia, Austria, Italy and elsewhere in the Balkans. He is the creator of the following cycling events: Human Fish Gravel, Bled Bike Festival, Women Ride Together Day, Gravel Epic, No Borders Bikepacking, Trans Balkan, ... and the creator of more than 100 cycling routes, products and programs.
He advises on many destinations regarding cycling content and cooperates with the economic sector in the development of cycling routes, contents, concepts and organization of cycling events. He is here mainly for you, to offer advice, to brief you before the tour and to be, with the rest of Life Bike team, the greatest possible help to you and your fellow travellers on your bike tour. Welcome!
