The TOUR Transalp 2024, the legendary stage race for teams of two and solo starters, starts on 16 June. On the route from Lienz in East Tyrol to Riva on Lake Garda, there are 790 kilometres and 16,650 metres of altitude to conquer. The route leads through the most beautiful regions of the Alps and Dolomites, and the stage towns are also attractive destinations for a cycling holiday lasting several days.
TOUR Transalp 2024 - the most important facts in brief
- 16 to 22 June
- 7 stages from Lienz in East Tyrol to Riva del Garda on Lake Garda
- Registration is possible as a team of two or solo
- Info: event.delius-klasing.de/tour-transalp
Kaltern am See - the wine and cycling paradise in South Tyrol
Kaltern is not only located on the lake, but above all on the South Tyrolean Wine Route. Both of these factors have made the village famous far beyond the borders of Italy. South of Bolzano, the ice-age Adige glacier has created a small plateau that widens the valley basin and forms a marvellous island. The warm south wind blows up the Adige Valley and gives Kaltern a mild, almost Mediterranean climate. The cafés and inns around the market square invite you to enjoy regional specialities in the open air almost every day.
And a rainy day can also be spent without regret in the local wine museum. Or take a stroll through the neighbouring town of Bolzano, whose shopping arcades in the historic old town are worth a visit whatever the weather. A panoramic view of the Caldaro plateau gives an idea of the countless sporting possibilities. Lake Kaltern is small but beautiful. It is definitely warm enough for swimming and big enough for water sports - or simply chilling out on the shore. The mountains around Kaltern cannot be overlooked. A paradise for cyclists, whether on or off-road. Wonderful cycle routes without car traffic? Check! Gentle passes for spring training? Right on the doorstep! The high Dolomites? Also within striking distance. Cyclist's heart, what more could you want?
Tour tip 1 - New classic: Over the Mendel Pass, Brezer Joch and Hofmahd
The new road over the Hofmahd into the Ulten Valley offers an attractive alternative to the classic route over the Mendel and Gampen Passes. However, this also means one more pass to conquer and more metres in altitude. In total 105 kilometres and 2500 metres in altitude! On the other hand, the tour is one of the most scenic that the Kaltern region has to offer. The route: From Kaltern on the old railway cycle path towards Bozen. At km 2.5 turn left onto the SS42 over the Mendel Pass (1363 metres) to Fondo.
A little complicated through the village and continue on the SS42 towards Passo Tonale. After two kilometres, turn right via Castelfondo onto the Brezer Joch (1397 metres). After the descent you meet the SP86, which you follow to the right over the Hofmahd (1720 metres) into the Ultental valley. Turn right there and head towards Lana. At the roundabout, continue straight on through the village and along Andreas-Hofer-Straße to the Adige. Follow the Adige Valley cycle path towards Bolzano. Shortly before the town you meet the railway cycle path at Ponte d'Adige, which leads back to Kaltern.
Tour tip 2 - Gravel over the Lavazejoch
Highlight of the tour: The route follows the route of the former Val di Fiemme railway to Castello di Fiemme. Although the path is unpaved, it is suitable for racing bikes. This means: a moderate gradient and almost 30 kilometres without car traffic! The route: From Kaltern, follow the signposted cycle route to Auer/Ora. Shortly before the village, turn right onto the Adige Valley cycle path and follow this for a few kilometres downstream. At the Auer campsite, change to the Val di Fiemme railway cycle path. Shortly before Castello di Fiemme, turn left off the cycle path and take the SP126 via Carano, Daiano and Varena to the Lavazejoch (1808 metres).
A steep but wonderfully scenic climb. During the descent, the road to Deutschnofen branches off to the left at kilometre 60 (SP72). Follow the SP72 via Deutschnofen and Aldein until you reach the SS48 again, which runs parallel to the Fleimstal railway line. Continue downhill on the SS48, cross the village of Ora at the bottom and continue to the Adige. Follow the signposted cycle route back to Kaltern.
- Tour dates: 102 kilometres and 2500 metres in altitude
