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Home > Treasures of the Veneto
More info: Receive detailed hotel list, bike specs, and route description
More infos BOOK NOW !The lowlands of the Veneto, sandwiched between the mountains and the sea in northern Italy, provide for excellent cycling over flat terrain. Even better, a short ride in almost any direction brings you within reach of some of Italy’s most remarkable treasures.
This picturesque route will lead you from one marvel to another — Vicenza, Padova, an opportunity to island-hop, and Venice — the world’s most romantic canal-laden, gondola-traveled city. Your detailed directions will carry you over very quiet roads or bicycle paths; although some sections may not be paved, they are definitely safe, easy to ride, and, of course, scenic.
Today’s ride begins by following the Brenta Canal, in the shadow of countryside villas of the ancient Venetian nobility (Villa Malcontenta, Villa Widmann, Villa Pisani). Upon reaching Stra you will cycle along the Piovego Canal,which will lead you to the city centre of Padua, a town steeped in art and history. Head on from here along one of Venice’s vital lifelines, the Canal Bacchiglione — once crucial for supplying provisions to Venice. You will then turn towards the Euganean Hills, where you will have the opportunity to relax in one of the largest European thermal districts.
Today you can decide to give your bike a rest day and spend your time in Venice. Alternatively, you can enjoy another exciting ride, pedaling on the two narrow islands that divide the sea from the lagoon: the island of Lido, home to the ancient hamlet of Malamocco, once capital of the Serenissima Republic, and the island of Pellestrina. You can also take the ferry from Pellestrina (tickets not included) and visit Chioggia, a fishing port in the Venetian lagoon and a smaller, simpler version of Venice.
Along the cycle path of the Battaglia Canal, you will reach the lively university town of Padua, where Galileo once taught mathematics. We recommend a visit to the grand Basilica del Santo dedicated to Saint Anthony. Following your detailed directions, you will make your way to Costozza at the foot of the Berici hills. The route takes you by Villa Rotonda temples.
A few pedal strokes and you'll be in the Piazza dei Signori, right in the heart of Vincenza, the capital of the Veneto region and Vicenza Province.
After meeting with our local representative who will outfit you with your bikes, you will soon be on your way to Bassano del Grappa. En route, you will ride through medieval Marostica and have a chance to play on its giant chessboard. When you spy on the Brenta River, you’ll know you’re near Bassano! The covered “Ponte Vecchio,” bridge spanning the river was originally designed by Palladio.
An early arrival will allow you time to stroll through Bassano’s historic pedestrian quarter.
Your ride starts with a rewarding climb to Asolo, the beautiful and charming “city of a hundred horizons”. From the land of Grappa (you will perhaps have tasted it in Bassano), you’ll enter into wine country through the vineyards that produce Prosecco, the famous sparkling wine. Afterwards, the ride takes you to Maser, where you can imagine yourself the master of many villas, before reaching Treviso. A tranquil town best visited on foot or by bike, Treviso makes a great destination for the night.
Following the River Sile, pedal through picturesque countryside to Casale, from where you’ll count down the minutes to Mestre! Mestre is in the vicinity of Venice, and your hotel is conveniently located across from a bus line that can take you to Venice in a matter of minutes. Arrive early for enough time to enjoy an unforgettable afternoon and evening strolling along the canals, admiring the remarkable squares and palaces, and lingering over the bridges of enchanting Venice.
Note: It is possible to shorten the stage by 20 km/13 miles by taking the train in Quarto d’Altino.
After breakfast, depart Vicenza at the time of your choice.
7 nights in 2- and 3-star properties
7 nights in 3- and 4-star properties