Brenner Pass to Bolzano

A classic alpine roll from the Italian–Austrian border down to Bolzano/Bozen. You follow the Eisack/Isarco valley on a mostly paved, well-signed cycleway with short stretches on quiet roads and the occasional bit of gravel or cobbles. It’s an easy-going, mostly downhill ride — ideal for touring bikes and families.

Highlights stack up fast: Vipiteno/Sterzing’s colorful old town, the fortress at Fortezza/Franzensfeste, the cathedral squares of Bressanone/Brixen, and the artists’ village of Chiusa/Klausen. Vineyards and orchards take over as you drop into the warmer valley.

Practical perks: the railway runs alongside much of the way, so you can shorten the day or bail if the weather changes. Wayfinding is simple — look for Eisacktal Radweg / Ciclabile Valle Isarco signs. Start north-to-south for the friendliest gradient. Summer brings sunshine; mornings at the pass can be crisp.

Roll into Bolzano for a well-earned gelato, a stroll through the arcades, or a visit to the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology (hi, Ötzi). Smooth surfaces, big scenery, easy logistics — what’s not to like?