Italy is a lot more than Rome or Florence. If missing the crowds and an authentic Italian experience are your top priorities, then this self-guided cycling tour along the Via Claudia Augusta should be your top pick. Most of this 8-day journey will be along this 2,000-year-old road that was once an important Roman trade route—but today, it’s everything a cyclist could wish for. You’ll wake up to views of snow-capped Alps, explore the city of Romeo and Juliet, pedal through apple orchards and vineyards, and discover bustling Italian towns full of gelaterias and cocktail bars. With this self-guided adventure, you’ll make your week worry-free, allowing you to move at your own pace, forget about the logistics, and just enjoy the trip.
The distances and terrain were just about right and allowed us time to explore each town at the end of the day’s cycling. Merano in particular is a beautiful town and having this at the end of a short day was a good idea as we could explore it properly. The trip from Silandro to Merano was probably our favourite day. Lovely cycle paths through apple plantation’s and forests and then beside the River Adige. At the end of the whole journey we actually became quite attached to the River, given we had ridden beside it for almost the whole trip. Overall this was a thoroughly enjoyable trip and I would highly recommended.
A self-guided tour is an independent exploration without a formal guide leading the way. Instead of being part of a group with a tour leader, you will navigate the tour yourself, using resources provided by the operator, such as maps, guidebooks, audio guides, or digital apps.
By going on this Via Claudia Augusta self-guided cycling tour, you’ll have lots of things arranged for you, making your cycling experience a lot less stressful and a lot more enjoyable:
After you get transferred to Verona and once you’ve talked to a local representative, the self-guided tour starts! Keep in mind that your guides offer support along the way should you need anything.
Please note that accommodations are subject to availability and it may not be possible to book the exact accommodations listed day-by-day in the itinerary (in case there is a detailed list).
Also note that your chosen dates for the tour are not guaranteed until confirmed by the guide. If the guide is unable to secure your preferred dates/accommodation, you’ll get a full refund!
Included:
Add-ons:
Not included:
*Please note that accommodations are subject to availability and it may not be possible to book the exact accommodations listed day-by-day in the itinerary (in case there is a detailed list).
Fitness and experience
This Via Claudia Augusta self-guided bike tour is beginner-friendly! If you can cover daily distances between 15-30 miles (24-48 km), you’re good to go. More day-by-day information is found in the itinerary. In general, most of the riding will be along flat roads, though there will be some undulations and the odd cheeky challenge. If you’re a semi-regular rider (maybe commuting to work or doing some leisure rides on the weekends), look no further.
Terrain and roads
Here’s what you’ll need:
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
If you don’t own a suitable bike or would prefer to avoid bringing your own, your guides have bikes available to rent. These bikes are typically Velo de Ville hybrid/touring bikes for $245. Depending on the size needed, the bikes may have a cross bar, or have a step through frame (usually the smaller models). If a smaller frame is required, occasionally a mountain bike with semi-slick tyres adapted for road use may also be provided. E-bikes are available on request for $485 and it may take a day or two for your guides to confirm.
Rental bikes will be provided with a pannier rack and 1 bag, a tool kit, a spare inner tube, a bike lock, a bike pump, and a phone mount.
If you choose to bring your own e-bike, on any of departures, please contact us so we can discuss the bike specification and ensure it is suitable for the tour.
Helmets can be provided locally on request. If you would like us to organise this please request a helmet at the time of booking.
The strong Germanic influence on the region is expressed in Tyrol-style housing and accommodation, from the murals on the facade of the building to the wooden balconies and interior design.
The majority of our accommodation (shared twin, double or family rooms) will usually be ensuite in 3-star hotels or guesthouses.
Please note that some hotels do not have twin rooms with separate beds available. They usually provide 1 bed frame with two mattresses and separate duvets and sheets. Please bear this in mind if traveling alone and opting to share a twin room with another solo traveler. Single supplement is also available at an additional cost.
There is an upgrade option available, meaning that you would stay in a mixture of both 3 and 4-star hotels and guesthouses.
Group sizes and pricing
Via Claudia Augusta self-guided cycling tours can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
If your group has riders under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to your Via Claudia Augusta cycling tour, you first have to reach Verona Airport (VRN). That’s where your guide’s representative will meet you and take you to Verona to your accommodation for the night.
Please note that accommodations are subject to availability and it may not be possible to book the exact accommodations listed day-by-day in the itinerary (in case there is a detailed list).
Also note that your chosen dates for the tour are not guaranteed until confirmed by the guide.
Medical and travel protection are mandatory on this adventure. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!
Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
A non-refundable $250 deposit to secure your place is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid 2 months (60 days) prior to departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies.
If you need to cancel the trip, please contact us in writing. If you wish to transfer a booking to another person, please write to us at least seven (7) days before your trip. Administration charges may arise.
