The Isarco Valley Cycle Path: from Brenner to Bolzano

The Isarco Valley cycle path is an almost 100‑km route that leads from the Brenner Pass through the Upper Isarco Valley and the Isarco Valley all the way to Bolzano. Well signposted throughout, the cycle path winds between gentle hills and woodland, is not demanding, always slightly downhill, and ideal for families. It forms part of the Munich–Venice long‑distance cycle route.

The starting point is the Brenner Pass, and for a long stretch the cycle path runs alongside the tracks of the old railway, first passing Colle Isarco and then reaching Vipiteno. You enter the town by passing under its historic tower, the symbol of Vipiteno, and continue along the main street. The route then follows the marked path to Fortezza Fortress, passes the small Varna lake, and continues along the unpaved Chestnut Trail to Varna and then to the Abbey of Novacella. From here, small country roads lead down to the centre of Bressanone, and the route continues to the charming town of Chiusa and Ponte Gardena. The cycle path then proceeds towards Campodazzo and Kollmann, passing through several tunnels, before reaching Prato Isarco and finally Bolzano.

The best time to ride the Isarco Valley cycle path is from April to October. For the return journey, trains run from Bolzano back to the Brenner Pass. The cycle path also connects with other major routes: at Fortezza, where it meets the Pusteria Valley cycle path, and at Vipiteno, where a branch leads into the Ridanna Valley via Mareta.

Start: Brenner Pass 
Finish: Bolzano 
Surface: asphalt, gravel 
Maximum gradient: 3% 
Average gradient: 1% 
Type: cycle path 
Suitable for: MTB and trekking bikes