Gravelbike Transalp Lake Garda – From Bad Tölz to Lake Garda 6 stages – 460 km – 9050 elevation gain – Level 3

Legendary route from the most beautiful Upper Bavaria to Lake Garda
Breathtaking landscapes Lake Walchen, Serles, Texel Group, Sarntal Alps, Val di Non
Epic climbs Brenner Pass, Jaufen Pass, Mendel Pass

This gravel route is the result of more than 30 years of Transalp experience. We worked thoughtfully on the route to fulfill the requirements. Lake Garda was our goal. On the way there are high alpine experiences of a special kind. We start in beautiful Upper Bavaria, take on the challenge of three legendary passes, cross South Tyrol and reach the longed-for destination along the Brenta Dolomites. All this on trails that every gravel biker dreams of: mostly away from traffic, very close to nature, but with a sporting challenge!

Itinerary

First day – Arriving at Bad Tölz / Upper Bavaria

The old town of Bad Tölz is worth the visit. Meeting point at 6:30 pm for a welcome drink and discussion of the tour. Followed by dinner together. Overnight stay in a 3-star hotel.

Second day – From Bad Tölz to Axams – 105 km, 1400 m elevation gain

Beginning with the first royal stage. On hidden paths we reach the turquoise-colored Lake Walch through the Jachenau. We continue through the Karwendel in views of the Zugspitze and down into the Inn valley. After a long day, the mountain arrival in Axams awaits us at the end. Overnight stay in a four-star hotel with indoor pool and spa

Third day – From Axams to Sterzing – 77 km, 1400 m elevation gain

Today we already cross the main Alpine ridge with the Brenner Pass. But first we work our way on lonely stretches past the Serles. We dip briefly into the Stubai Valley and catch a glimpse of the glaciers. One or another ramps have to be conquered today. We enjoy the last few kilometers to Sterzing with views into the Pfitscher and Pflerscher valleys. Overnight stay in a beautiful boutique hotel.

Fourth day – From Sterzing to Merano – 73 km, 1600 m elevation gain

Another legendary pass awaits us today, the almost 2100 meter high Jaufenpass. Before that, we cycle into Ridnaun- and later Ratschings valley on our gravel bikes. From Bichl, the long ascent begins on forest paths up to the Rinneralm. From here, we descend to the pass road and climb up a few hairpin bends into the Passeier valley. We reach the spa town of Merano via the cycle path. Overnight stay in a city hotel with pool.

Fifth day – From Merano to Bolzano – 58 km, 1800 m elevation gain

South Tyrol at it's best. In the middle of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the world. Texelgruppe, Ortler, Seiser Alm and many Dolomite peaks within reach. Breathtaking views as soon as we reach the high plateau around the Salten. A thrilling descent to the provincial capital of Bolzano.

Sixth day – From Bolzano to Tuenno – 59 km, 1550 m elevation gain

Today we explore a part of the Alps that is completely unknown to many. From the Mendel Pass onwards we dive into the Val di Non. The new cycle path in the Upper Val die Non winds its way through villages, historic town centers and offers many places to stop for refreshments. Overnight stay in the middle of the piazza in Tuenno.

Seventh day – From Tuenno to Lake Garda – 86 km, 1300 m elevation gain

We are certainly not just rolling to Lake Garda today. The last day is full of highlights. The forenoon starts in “Bear Country”, the Galleria de Terres and Bike Brenta Trail. In the afternoon we cycle against the mighty backdrop of the Brent Dolomites on typical Lake Garda grit. From the Sarca Valley onwards, all you can do is look forward to jump into the cool water. Lake Garda has been reached. We´ll enjoy a multi-course farewell dinner together.

Eighth day – Departure

The bikes are loaded after breakfast. Return journey in a comfortable tour bus.

My tip for Gravelbike Transalp Lake Garda

„This Gravelbike Transalp is full of scenic highlights, but also full of technical challenges and steep climbs. Only those who see their gravel bike as a piece of sports equipment will be happy on this route. Although there are only short pushing passages, we have deliberately chosen many gravel paths and short, tricky flow trails. Some very steep ascents and descents on asphalt and loose gravel have to be mastered. In addition, all of the day's stages are physically demanding. The last stage to Lake Garda deserves special attention. It is long and almost exclusively on off-road routes. Find out more on our impressions page. Potential for an absolute super tour like the legendary gravel race 'Strada Bianche' in Tuscany.“
Tom Bauer, ALPS bike guide for the Gravelbike Transalp Lake Garda.

Travel information

Level 3: Physical fitness Riding technique

Arrival: Arrival by car or train to Bad Tölz.

Type of route: Forest and bike paths, asphalt side roads, short pushing- and trail passages.

Daily distance: 1300-1800 elevation gain, 58-105 kilometers

Total distance: 9050 elevation gain, 460 kilometers

Included in the price: Guided tour with 7 overnight stays and half board (breakfast buffet, multi-course dinner menus) in good 3 or 4-star hotels, often with a spa, luggage transport, return transfer in a comfortable bus.

Minimum number of participants: 8 people

Price: € 1.675

Single Room Supplement: optional € 195

Detailed Itinerary

Travel date 2025

20.07. to 27.07.2025

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View impressions of the tour

Your guide

Tom Bauer Tour guide

Born in Cologne, he moved to Munich after completing his studies. In 2002, a friend and mountain bike expert showed him the biking in the high mountains and he was “infected” by the Transalp virus. In recent years, Tom has successfully completed the DIMB Trailscout and DIMB MTB Guide exams. Tom loves to be out biking in the mountains every day. But he doesn't want to miss out culinary delights along the way.