Dolomites Switchback Challenge

DOLOMITES SWITCHBACK CHALLENGE

The Dramatic Dolomites is the third in our series of Switchback Challenges, which are designed for riders wishing to maximize the time spent riding the spectacular motorcycling roads of the Alps, while minimizing hotel changes. This 7-day Club Class Adventure begins and ends in Munich, with the remaining nights spent in the same biker-friendly hotel, situated in the heart of the Dolomites, a motorcyclist’s playground.

A World Heritage Site, the Dolomites feature vertical rock walls and spectacular brightly-colored, block-like mountains that distinguish it from other Alpine regions. The itinerary includes almost 20 peaks with elevations exceeding 10,000 feet and 16 mountain pass roads ranging from 4,500 to 7,400 feet. Our native tour leaders consider this their backyard playground where they know even the most hidden roads. Riders will experience some of the most technical on-road riding as they encounter countless hairpin turns, but there will also be numerous opportunities to take a break at local cafes, relax and enjoy the impressive mountain scenery.

In addition to incredible riding, optional activities include:
• From Falzarego Pass take the cable car up to Lagazuoi, which was the location of heavy combat in WWI. The tunnel that the Italians built under the Austrian lines is open to the public.
• Spend an afternoon or evening in the nearby city of Bolzano and visit the Oetzi Museum which is built around the oldest known natural human mummy (more than 5,000 years old).
• Stroll around the streets of upscale Cortina d’Ampezzo where the 1956 Winter Olympics were held.
• Take a ride to legendary Venice, which is less than 3 hours from our base hotel.

The ride to/from Munich to our base hotel in the Dolomites crosses exciting motorcycling territory and, if weather permits, will include crossing Austria’s highest pass road, the Grossglockner.

At a Glance Your Dolomites Switchback Challenge Adventure

Day 1 – Arrival in Munich

Welcome to the beer capital of Germany! We will pick you up at the Munich airport and transfer you to the hotel in Ismaning, located half way between the airport and downtown Munich. For those wishing to explore Munich, Ismaning has very good public transportation to Munich City Centre. Those arriving early may want to visit the BMW Museum, try out one of the famous Bavarian beer gardens, or do sightseeing in downtown Munich. Later in the afternoon we will have the motorcycle handover, followed by a kickoff meeting and our first dinner together!

Day 2 – Ismaning – Into the Dolomites, ~188 miles

Today we head south toward the Alps, crossing the border to Austria and passing Innsbruck. On the old Brenner Pass road we approach Bolzano, Italy and then dive into the very heart of the Alps – the Dolomites!! Our “biker friendly” hotel for the next four nights is perfectly located to access our playground for the next few days. It is appointed with comfortable amenities and all necessary services and conveniences. Our luggage will have arrived by van.

Day 3 – Dolomites, “Famous Routes”, ~167 miles

We head east to ride the most famous and challenging roads of the Dolomites, crossing up to 10 high elevation passes! We will pass through the villages of Corvara, Cortina d’Amprezzo, Valle di Cadore, Forno di Zoldo, Caprile and Canazei. The roads between them are simply breathtaking!

Day 4 – Dolomites, Southern Loop, ~163 miles

Today we will make a big loop around the Fleimstaler Alps, leading us into the Trentino region of Italy. Though the mountains will look different, the roads are as challenging as the ones we experienced yesterday. If you would like to spend some time exploring the city of Trento, you can do so, and then take the short route back to the hotel.

Day 5 – Dolomites, Secret Roads, ~169 miles

Today we will explore the hidden gems off the beaten track, northeast of our hotel! A good part of today’s loop will be on very small, twisty roads through the backcountry of the Dolomites region.

Day 6 – Dolomites – Ismaning, ~238 miles

Our last riding day features another highlight of this trip: Austria’s highest pass road, the Grossglockner, topping out at 8,215 ft! As we leave behind the high mountains of the Alps, we’ll descend into Austria and southern Bavaria, which also offer very nice riding. Upon our arrival, we’ll enjoy a well-deserved reward: refreshing Bavarian beer!

Day 7 – Departure Day

After breakfast, we will arrange your transfer to the airport for your flight home.