Its position in the valley basin between the Val Venosta, Adige and Passirio valleys makes the spa town of Merano the ideal holiday destination for anyone wanting to explore some of the most beautiful bike routes in Italy. In the surroundings of Merano you will find a wide variety of perfectly prepared cycling paths with fantastic panoramic views that will delight beginners and advanced cyclists alike. Thanks to good connections to the public transport network and many inns along the way, cycling around Merano, South Tyrol, is uncomplicated and pleasant. The three best-known cycle paths near Merano are also suitable for beginners and families with children:
1. Adige cycle path from Merano to Bolzano
Length: 30 km
Journey time Merano-Bolzano: approx. 2h
Difference in altitude: -75 m
Difficulty: easy
The bike tour from Merano to Bolzano follows the route of the ancient Roman road Via Claudia Augusta. You can set off from the railway station in Merano. From there, the paved cycle path runs along the Adige river until you reach the capital city of the province, with a constant slight downhill slope. The numerous inns along the way are ideal for a short break. The Adige valley is the widest and flattest valley in South Tyrol - to the left and right of the path you will mainly see apple trees, but also the odd vegetable plantation. If you cycle all the way to Bolzano, you will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the Catinaccio and Sciliar mountain massifs. If you wish, you can return by public transport. You can easily take your bike with you on the train.
2. Adige cycle path from Malles to Merano
Length: 56 km
Journey time Malles-Merano: approx. 4h
Difference in altitude: -700 m
Difficulty: easy to moderately difficult
Alternatively, during your cycling holiday in Merano, Italy, you can also cycle the Adige cycle path in the other direction, i.e., into the Val Venosta valley. This is the main western valley of South Tyrol and it’s known for its castles, monasteries, apple orchards and varied landscape. The entire stretch of the cycle path from Malles to Merano is also covered by the Val Venosta railway, which is suitable for transporting bicycles, too. You therefore don't have to cycle the entire route - just set off where you like it best and cycle as far as you like. Of course, you can also tackle the route in the other direction, i.e., from Merano to Malles. A constant, but only slight ascent as well as a well-built, mostly asphalted roadway make this route suitable for every cyclist, even in the uphill direction.
3. Passirio valley cycle path to San Leonardo
Length: 19 km
Journey time Merano-San Leonardo: approx. 2h
Difference in altitude: +350 m
Difficulty: easy
If you are looking to explore the surroundings of Merano on your MTB, then the cycle path to the Passirio valley is the right choice. The starting point is the centre of Merano (Sissi Park). From there, a mostly natural path leads steadily uphill and northwards through the Passirio valley until reaching its main town, San Leonardo. This route is particularly popular in the hot summer months, as it often runs under the shade of the trees. Should you need a short breather, then we recommend the traditional inns not far from the trail, which will fortify you with homemade specialties from the region. At the end of the path, you will find the small fishing pond of San Leonardo: perfect for a short sunbath on the meadow and for dipping your feet in the fresh water before you make your way back.
Mountain biking in Merano, Italy, is suitable for everyone: an abundance of well-maintained and family-friendly cycle paths is available. Thanks to the excellent connections to the public transport network, you can flexibly plan your bike tours near Merano, Italy, and only cycle as far as you feel like. And after an exciting day in nature, there is nothing better than relaxing your tired muscles in the swimming pool, sauna or with a soothing massage. The thermal baths of Merano (Terme Merano), one of the most beautiful thermal baths in northern Italy, are only a few minutes' walk away from our luxurious Wosching Haus apartments, making them the ideal starting point for cycling in South Tyrol. But that's not all: as our guest, you’ll get a 20% discount at Papin Sport bike rental. Book your cycling holiday in Merano, Italy, now and enjoy the exclusive benefits at Wosching Haus!