Cycling the Dolomites one day at a time

Cycling the Dolomites to Venice

I recently returned from cycling 200 miles from the Dolomites to Venice. For some, that might be a breezy ride—but for me, approaching my fifties, with little cycling experience and at my most unfit, it was a serious challenge.

The journey began with a mix of excitement and nerves. As our coach wound its way toward Dobbiaco after a three-hour journey, the mountains rose like giants, and the reality of pedalling all the way back began to sink in. But the beauty of the Dolomites quickly softened my fear—emerald lakes, snow-dusted peaks, and air so pure it felt like breathing for the first time.

Each day brought fresh terrain: quiet valleys, wildflower meadows, exhilarating switchbacks, rustic hilltop towns, and sunlit flatlands. The adventure tested, surprised, and rewarded me at every turn.

In the valleys, I was serenaded by the gentle chime of cowbells echoing through the landscape. Feltre buzzed with the energy of the Dolomiti Race, while Asolo offered sweeping 360-degree views that made the savage climb worth it. The journey gifted me countless memories.

Venice provided the perfect end to the journey. A contrast to the cycling days: winding canals, historic architecture, gondolas, gelato and vibrant piazzas to sit and celebrate with Prosecco.

Over six days, I racked up 200 miles and learned a valuable life lesson. In the past, I’ve been offered opportunities that felt too big, too daunting and haven’t always taken them. But if life were a cake, you wouldn’t eat it all at once. You’d savour it—one slice at a time.

This trip reminded me that progress comes in stages. Splitting the cycling over six days made it possible. I took each day as it came, and in doing so, discovered strength, joy, and a new way of seeing possibility.

If you fancy cycling the Dolomites to Venice, have a read of my blog, or listen to the audio version below. And if you are not an experienced cyclist, you’ve got this—one day at a time.