Highlights
“Breathtaking views that make you forget the effort, local dishes and South Tyrolean beer. The warmth and comfort of the Antares, right in the centre yet close to everything.”
Car packed, bikes loaded, gear ready, we arrive at Hotel Antares in the evening and store our e-bikes in the bike room, plugging them in for the next day. Dinner at Ristorante Rigais is light and refined, with fresh fish dishes. An early night follows, we’ll need our own batteries fully charged too.
A generous breakfast sets the tone: omelettes, pancakes, and strong coffee. We take the lift to Ciampinoi and start the legendary Sellaronda loop. Over 1,000 metres of climbing, balanced by flowing descents toward Val di Fassa. Challenging, varied, unforgettable, easily the best MTB ride I’ve ever done. Back at Antares, a cold beer is well earned.
With fully charged e-bikes, we ride towards Daunëi and follow the forest path past Juac to Rifugio Firenze. The Odle rise in front of us, Sassolungo behind, an incredible alpine backdrop. The climb is steady, the reward immense. On the way down, we stop at Juac for lunch, canederli have never tasted this good.
A slower start today, legs still feeling the previous days. We ride up to Vallunga, just a short climb from the hotel, and suddenly we’re surrounded by meadows, grazing cows, and dramatic rock walls. A gentle push to Pra da Ri (200m climb), then time to rest by the stream. Silence, sun, and space. Back in the village, we stock up on local specialities and say arrivederci to the mountains.
Bring your bike charger, protective gear, and suitable clothing for changing weather conditions.
Skip plastic bottles and bring a reusable one to refill in your room or at the fountains: mountain water is excellent!
Check trail conditions online before heading out, as routes may close for maintenance or due to weather.
