Cycling and mountain biking in Merano
The best cycling routes around our bike hotel in Merano
In the Merano region of South Tyrol, leisurely cycle paths through the valley alternate with challenging mountain routes. Along the Adige and Passer rivers, the main river flowing through Merano, cycling paths wind past orchards, meadows and charming little villages. Higher up, forest tracks, thrilling trails and mountain passes offer plenty of elevation gain and breathtaking panoramic views.
Thanks to its central location, our bike hotel in Merano is the ideal starting point for tours by e-bike, mountain bike or road bike. Complimentary city bikes are also available for shorter excursions and exploring the city. For personalised route recommendations and insider tips, simply ask our concierge.
The cycle route into the Passeier Valley starts near our bike hotel in Merano and is just a short walk away. From Merano, it follows the River Passer as far as St. Leonhard in the Passeier Valley. The cycle route is very peaceful, passing apple orchards, meadows and woods. The largely flat route makes it ideal for an enjoyable day’s cycling and can be tailored to suit your fitness level and the desired length of the ride.
Heading south, the tarmac-surfaced Adige Cycle Route runs through the wide valley towards Bolzano. The roughly 30 kilometres to the provincial capital are mostly a gentle descent through the South Tyrolean cultural landscape. Those who do not wish to cycle back can combine the tour with a train journey back to Merano.
For a particularly lovely day trip, start by taking the Vinschgau Railway from Merano up into the Vinschgau Valley. From there, the largely tarmac-surfaced cycle path follows the historic Via Claudia Augusta back towards Merano. The route is mostly gently downhill, passing orchards, small villages, castles and palaces.
In the area around Merano, the terrain becomes more challenging for mountain bikers. Forest tracks and trails lead through woods, across alpine pastures and up to higher altitudes. Routes around Schenna, Hafling, Merano 2000 and Naturns combine significant elevation gain with sweeping views.
Those wishing to avoid part of the climb can, depending on the route, use one of the mountain cable cars and start further up. Routes across the plateaus around Merano 2000 or to the Naturns Alm on the Nörderberg are particularly appealing.
Merano in Italy is ideal for cycling the Alps on challenging road tours. Routes lead through the Passeier Valley up to the Jaufen Pass and the Timmelsjoch. To the south-west of Merano, the Gampen Pass awaits, leading on into the Non Valley. Those who prefer to clock up the kilometres in the valley can follow the tarmac Adige Cycle Route towards Bolzano. This offers a choice ranging from longer, comparatively flat training loops to challenging mountain passes with significant elevation gains.
