Arrive in Silandro (Schlanders in German), chief town of the Venosta Valley. Start your week with a leisurely stroll and take in the sights, such as the soaring church steeple, the highest in South Tyrol.

Set off with a one-hour transfer to Passo Resia. Then begin by bike, coasting along Lake Resia past a submerged tower which juts out of the water. Wind down a panoramic cycle path among alpine meadows and pause in lovely villages like Burgusio and Clusio. At lunchtime, the impressive fortified town of Glorenza awaits. Afterwards, follow a quiet bike path through endless orchards on the River Adige. Take a break in Lasa to visit the marble museum then finish with a short stretch back to Silandro.

Challenge: 50 km, 350m ascent, 1300m descent 

Pedal down Venosta Valley among snow-capped peaks and vast pine forests. Stop to savour a cappuccino in lively Naturno and blend into local life. Take the bike path into a narrow gorge, then burst out into a broad glacial valley. Sail onward to Merano, the centuries-old spa town where Princess Sissi convalesced in a unique microclimate. Next, while away the afternoon hours on foot and happen upon hidden corners in this magical place.

Challenge: 38 km, 150m ascent, 470m descent

Shoot through rows upon rows of apple trees to reach majestic Bolzano, the capital of South Tyrol. Turn south as the bike path winds along, now among vineyards, and roll past the village of Caldaro (Kaltern in German) to reach the lakeshore.

Challenge: 48 km, 340m ascent, 475m descent

From crystal-clear Lake Caldaro, strike out on the ‘Strada del Vino’ (wine route) to a series of wine-making villages. Glide down into Adige Valley to pick up the cycle path to Trento. Take a breather at a ‘Bici Grill’ (cyclists’ bar) and explore ancient villages like Egna and Salorno. Once in Trento, languish along lanes in the Old Quarter and spend a dreamy afternoon Italian-style. 

Challenge: 53 km, 295m ascent, 325m descent

Carry on along the bike path accompanied by the blue-green hues of the River Adige. From Rovereto, head westward on a gentle climb to get stunning views of Lake Garda from the pass. Complete your day with a short downhill section and take Riva del Garda’s twisting medieval streets all the way to your hotel.

Challenge: 48 km, 150m ascent, 500m descent

Optional extra day:   Circular ride in Riva del Garda

Book an extra night in Riva del Garda for a spectacular loop ride into ‘Valle dei Laghi’ (Valley of the Lakes). Snap a portrait of palm-studded Arco, where rocky slopes are crowned by a medieval castle. Ride a bike path lined with grapevines and apple trees to the pristine waters of Lago di Cavedine. Pause for a scenic lunch beneath the imposing rock faces of Monte Brento and Monte Casale. Traverse the rockslides of Marocche di Dro to circle round to Arco, then follow the shores of Lake Garda from Torbole back to Riva del Garda.

Challenge: 45 km, 390m ascent, 390m descent

Your cycling tour comes to an end this morning after breakfast. From Riva del Garda you depart by bus or taxi, unless you have pre-booked a private transfer, then there are easy connections from Rovereto train station to your airport of departure.