Experience northern Italy alongside local chefs and winemakers, enjoying insider access at restaurants, wineries, and farms. Pedal in peace on a traffic-free network of local bike paths, crossing three regions from the Italian Alps to Lake Garda. Cook dinner with local chef, Simone, at a small winery and then ride to his mountain village for lunch at his restaurant the next day. Taste the authentic flavors of regional cuisine at two Michelin-starred restaurants and meticulous family-run trattorias. Discover sophisticated wines from DOC appellations, including a tasting at beloved producer Elisabetta Foradori. Meet your guides at the Verona train station for a quick transfer into the vineyard-clad heart of the Valpolicella. Get fitted on the bikes then set off through the undulating hills of this ancient wine-growing region. Our winemaker friend, Nicola, joins us on our ride and welcomes us to his winery for a private lunch prepared by a local chef. Taste a selection of Amarone wines and chat with the chef about regional recipes and ingredients. Finish the day with a leisurely ride along the leafy banks of the Adige River to our 16th-century villa hotel. Retreat to the spa or relax by the pool before regrouping for dinner at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant. Meet Simone, a local chef and cyclist, this morning as we ride to the town of Rivoli out along the Adige River Valley. Perhaps the Rue de Rivoli shopping street in Paris comes to mind—in fact, it was named for Napoleon’s 1797 victory over the Austrians that took place right here. It’s not the only notable moment this valley endured: as the geographic link between Italy and northern Europe, it was a hotbed for invading armies and enterprising merchants. History is echoed in the fortifications that dot the valley, including the impressive WWI trenches and memorials around Rovereto, where we’ll stop for lunch. Afterwards, continue riding or transfer to tonight’s accommodations outside Trento. Join Chef Simone in the kitchen at this boutique farmhouse and winery as he shares the secrets of local ingredients and cuisine during a convivial evening of wine, cooking, and alpine hospitality. Today we transition from the vineyard-rich Adige Valley to the alpine gem of Campiglio, nestled in the Brenta Dolomites—a UNESCO World Heritage site and home of Italy’s largest glacier. Beginning from our hotel, we’ll pedal across the valley to visit our friend Elisabetta Foradori, a well-respected and iconic Italian winemaker. Afterwards, a classic mountain train takes us up to the Val di Non, passing apple orchards, castles, and mirrored mountain lakes en route to the beginning of a bike path. Ride through farming villages to lunch at Chef Simone’s restaurant, then opt for an extra climb all the way to our sustainably-minded hotel in Campiglio (or choose a transfer for some extra time at the spa). Tonight we are the special guests of Chef Flavio Faedi, a native of rural Romagna who honed his craft in Michelin-starred kitchens around Italy but still brings his grandmother's honest flavors to every dish. Trade the road bikes for mountain e-bikes as we set off to meet Chef Veronica in her element, and discover the alpine bounty above Campiglio. Rushing waterfalls, towering peaks, and tinkling cowbells set the scene. Forage in the meadows and pastures for wild herbs and greens—we’ll put it all together for a picturesque mountain picnic. Spend the afternoon however you prefer: head back to the hotel for some downtime, enjoy some additional time on the mountain bike, or fit in a bit of hiking. Say goodbye to Campiglio as we hop on a bike path in Pinzolo and pedal towards Lake Garda. These valleys are an abundant heartland of small farms that supply high-quality ingredients to top local restaurants. Continue to one of the most beautiful sections of the bike path above the Sarca River, which springs directly from the Italian Alps, then ride or transfer the final few kilometers to Riva. Check into our palatial hotel, located on private shores of Lake Garda, then take a swim or stroll around town. This evening, a private boat delivers us to a storied Michelin-starred restaurant where we’ll enjoy the sunset and a memorable final dinner. Take an early morning dip in Lake Garda or head into town for coffee before your guides transfer you to the Verona train station. Buon viaggio to wherever your journey may take you next! Thoughtfully selected accommodations that reveal the true character of the region. Luggage transfers. Daily breakfasts, all lunches, nutritious snacks, and après velo cocktails. 4 gourmet dinners at our favorite local restaurants and renowned culinary establishments. Carefully selected local wine, beer, or spirits with all meals. Wine tastings and activities as outlined in the tour itinerary. Entrance fees to historic sites, museums, parks, and all other exclusive events. Gratuities for baggage, porters, and hotel service. Top-of-the-line bicycle selection. Bike helmet. Complimentary DuVine gear including a custom cycling jersey, DuVine t-shirt, water bottle, and drawstring bag. GPS with pre-programmed route maps. Expert bilingual guides with extensive local knowledge. Support vehicle that follows the day’s route, distributes refreshments, and offers lifts. Pick-up and drop-off before and after your tour from predetermined meeting points. Daily bike maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Note that many hotels in the Dolomites rely on the cool mountain air, especially at higher altitudes, and may not offer air conditioning. Accommodations on Day 2 are simple farmhouse lodgings in order to have a more intimate family-style evening with Chef Simone.
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Amarone and the Valpolicella
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Visiting with Friends
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Into the Mountains
The Chef’s Backyard
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The Kitchen Larder
Departure in Verona
Hotel