A 5 Day Itinerary: the Swiss Alps & Dolomites
High passes, sudden snow, and curves that steal your breath—this is the Alps at full throttle.
Getting Started: Ride, Ship, or Rent
Planning your start depends on where you’re coming from:
From the UK:
Riders from the UK often take the Eurotunnel or ferry to Calais, then ride through France to reach Switzerland or northern Italy. This allows you to bring your own bike, full riding gear, and travel at your own pace through scenic alpine routes.
From Europe:
If you're based in Germany, Austria, or France, Switzerland and Italy are easily accessible by road. Routes from Munich, Innsbruck, or Lyon offer stunning pre-Alpine rides leading into the heart of the Alps. Milan, Turin, and Geneva are great starting points for crossing into the mountains.
Flying In & Renting a Motorcycle:
Pressed for time or not keen on shipping your own bike? Flying in and renting is a fantastic alternative. Trusted rental providers are available in major cities near the Alps:
*Tip: Summer is peak riding season in the Alps. Book rentals well in advance. Most providers offer panniers, insurance options, GPS, and helmet/gear rentals. Or better yet, aim for shoulder seasons where the weather is generally still fantastic but roads are much less busy.
Key Notes for Riders – Weather & Bike Prep
🌦 Expect Rapid Weather Changes
Dress for the weather! Even down to waterproof booties.
The Alps can throw four seasons in a day: sunshine in the valley, fog or rain mid‑slope, and even snow on high passes. You can start one side of the pass with tons of sunshine and get to the other with snow and rain. It changes that quickly.
Check local pass reports and webcams before you set off.
🧥 Gear for All Conditions
Pack as if it’s winter at altitude, even in summer:
Waterproof and insulated gloves
Heated or thermal base layers
A high‑quality waterproof outer shell
Add neck buffs and thermal liners—small but game‑changing in freezing winds.
🏍 Bike Preparedness is Crucial
Service your bike before the trip; make sure brakes, fluids, and chain/belt are in top condition.
Check your tires: good tread and proper pressure are essential for wet and cold alpine roads.
Consider tire types that handle sudden rain or light snow well; avoid worn sport tires on unpredictable passes.
❄ Snow & Ice Awareness
Snow can linger on shaded hairpins well into summer.
Early morning and late evening rides are most prone to frost and ice—time your pass crossings accordingly.
If caught in snow, descend carefully; conditions improve quickly at lower altitude.
⛽ Fuel & Flexibility
Top up before remote passes; detours for weather or closures can be long.
Have a backup route in case a pass is closed due to snow or landslides.
🕐 Smart Riding Timing
Late morning to mid‑afternoon is safest for high passes—less frost, better visibility.
Avoid pushing a pass if fog or snow reduces visibility below 50 m; wait it out at a café or refuge.
🏔 Emergency Ready
Carry a thermal blanket and basic tools.
Download offline maps in case GPS signal drops in deep valleys.
📸 Pro Tip
Cloud breaks and snow‑dusted peaks make for dramatic photos—just take them from a safe stop, never mid‑hairpin.
The Not-so-Fun Stuff: Paperwork & Essentials
Before you twist the throttle, make sure your admin and gear are sorted. Here's a practical checklist:
Required Documents:
Valid Passport (with at least 6 months left)
Motorcycle License (Full A license for rentals)
International Driving Permit (for non-EU/UK riders)
Motorcycle Registration (if riding your own bike)
Proof of Insurance (check European coverage)
Green Card (recommended for non-EU vehicles)
Essential Items to Pack:
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or GHIC (UK residents)
High-visibility vest (required in some countries)
First aid kit
Spare bulbs & fuses
Paper map or offline GPS (Alpine signal isn’t always reliable)
Tolls, Fobs & Ferries:
Switzerland: You’ll need a motorway vignette (CHF 40) even for bikes if using highways. Purchase at borders or petrol stations.
Italy: Motorways are toll-based (autostrade). Tickets are issued at entry and paid at exit; credit cards and cash accepted. No fobs needed for most routes, but Telepass can be used if preferred.
Mountain Passes: Some iconic passes like Stelvio, Timmelsjoch, or Grossglockner (Austria) may have seasonal tolls.
Ferries: In lake regions (Lake Como, Maggiore, Garda), ferries operate frequently. These usually don’t require pre-booking, but bring a few euros in cash.
*Tip: Always carry a small amount of local currency (Swiss Francs and Euros) for tolls, snacks, or remote mountain huts.
Where to Stay
Wild Camping
While wild camping is generally not legal in Switzerland or Italy, there are a few exceptions and lots of rider-friendly alternatives:
Switzerland: Wild camping above the tree line is often tolerated (away from towns and trails). However, it’s best to use designated campsites, many of which cater to bikers and offer incredible Alpine views.
Italy: Wild camping is largely restricted. Use agriturismos, mountain huts (rifugi), or biker-friendly hostels in regions like the Dolomites and Aosta Valley.
Campsites
Campsites in both countries range from basic to luxurious, with many located along iconic motorcycle routes. Most offer hot showers, laundry, food options, and even drying rooms for wet gear.
Hostels
Hostels aren’t just for backpackers—many cater well to motorcyclists, offering secure bike parking, social vibes, and even drying rooms.
Bunk-a-Biker
Bunk-a-Biker is a worldwide community of motorcycle riders who offer to host traveling riders at their homes for free. The idea isn't for a free place to stay, it's for building and promoting an uplifting, positive, and supportive community where you can meet your fellow bikers. I’ve used this many times and it’s a great way to meet and support fellow bikers and adventurers. Click Here for the website. Unlike Couch-Surging there isn’t a rating system for hosts and travelers. So get to know who you are staying with prior to agreeing to stay.
Couch-Surfing
Couch Surfing is a community of people who offer to host travellers whether it’s in a spare room, sofa, etc. There is a rating system for both the host and the traveler so people can assess who they might be staying with. A great safety option. I’ve met some fantastic people and familes using this app. Many of which who have been happy to show me around and see the less touristy areas of where I’m staying. Click Here
The Ultimate 5 Day Motorcycle Alps Itinerary
This 5-day motorcycle adventure begins in Zurich, Switzerland and winds its way south to the stunning shores of Lake Garda, Italy, carving a breath-taking path through the heart of the Alps and Dolomites. Along the way, you'll tackle legendary mountain passes like Grimsel, Susten, Furka, and Oberalp in Switzerland, followed by Italian giants such as Stelvio, Gardena, Sella, Ciampigotto, and Monte Zoncolan. Each pass delivers its own brand of thrill—tight switchbacks, soaring mountain ridgelines, and quiet alpine roads that seem made for two wheels. Even when the weather shifts, the ride never disappoints. From turquoise glacial lakes and cliffside chapels to panoramic peaks and forested valleys, this route offers a perfect balance of technical riding and raw natural beauty—an unforgettable experience for any two-wheeled traveller.
Day 1 - Swiss Passes Loop
Kick off your alpine adventure in the quiet village of Giswil, nestled at the base of Switzerland’s dramatic mountain ranges. Today’s route dives straight into the heart of the Central Alps, linking up some of the country’s most iconic sights and high-altitude passes. From the glacial-carved Aare Gorge to the legendary hairpins of Furkapass and Grimselpass, every mile is a postcard-worthy thrill. Along the way, you’ll explore historic bridges, hidden waterfalls, and cable-accessed summits—wrapping up the day in the scenic valleys around Andermatt, where riders, hikers, and explorers converge.
Aare Gorge
What: A dramatic glacial canyon carved by the Aare River, featuring suspended walkways through towering limestone walls. This natural wonder offers a powerful introduction to Switzerland’s alpine landscape—making it an ideal first stop as you ride in from Zurich and begin your ascent into the heart of the Alps.
Notes:
🕒 Opening Times: Daily from 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (summer season: extended to 7:00 PM)
💰 Entry fee: ~CHF 10
🚶 Easy 1 km walk through the gorge with tunnels and boardwalks
🅿️ Free motorcycle parking available at the west entrance
📸 Best visited in the morning for softer light and fewer crowds
Susten Pass
What: A favorite among motorcyclists for its smooth curves and alpine drama, Susten Pass offers a balanced mix of technical riding, wide scenic stretches, and breathtaking glacier views. Linking the Bernese Oberland to the Uri region, it's often considered one of the most beautiful riding roads in the Swiss Alps.
Notes:
🕒 Open Season: Typically June to October, depending on snowfall
🗺️ Elevation: 2,260 m
❄️ Stunning views of the Stein Glacier and surrounding peaks
🏍️ Ideal combination of flow and challenge—perfect for spirited riding
📸 Several pull-offs for photography and panoramic views
🧭 Often combined in a loop with Grimsel and Furka for a “3-Pass Day”
🚗 Can get busy with RVs and cars during peak hours—early starts recommended
Gotthard Pass
What: One of Switzerland’s most legendary alpine crossings, Gotthard Pass links the German- and Italian-speaking regions of the country. Riders can choose between the modern highway tunnel or the scenic old cobbled Tremola Road, a twisting masterpiece of hand-laid granite that climbs dramatically through the pass.
Notes:
🕒 Open Season: Typically June to October, depending on snow
🛣️ Ride the Tremola route for a historic, stone-paved ascent (caution: wet cobbles can be slick)
🗺️ Elevation: 2,106 m
🏁 Popular route among motorcyclists and cyclists alike
🏔️ Great views of the surrounding peaks and alpine lakes
📍 Connects well with Furka, Nufenen, and Grimsel for a multi-pass loop
🚫 Closed in winter — always check weather and road status in shoulder months
Nufenpass
What: Switzerland’s second-highest paved mountain pass, Nufenenpass (Passo della Novena) offers sweeping panoramic views and a thrilling ride along wide, open switchbacks. Less crowded than its more famous neighbors, it delivers one of the most tranquil yet dramatic alpine ascents in the country.
Notes:
🕒 Open Season: Usually June to October, weather permitting
🗺️ Elevation: 2,478 m — one of the highest rideable passes in Switzerland
🏍️ Ideal for a smooth, flowing ride with great sight lines
🌄 Offers views of the Bernese Alps and Valais peaks
☕ Small restaurant/kiosk at the summit (open during summer)
🚫 No fuel stations directly on the pass — fill up in Ulrichen or Airolo
📸 Popular for sunrise or sunset photo stops due to its elevation and open views
Furka Pass
What:
An iconic Swiss alpine pass with jaw-dropping views, Furka Pass is famed for its sweeping hairpins, dramatic glacier overlooks, and James Bond film fame (seen in Goldfinger). It's a must-ride route that links well with Grimsel and Gotthard for the ultimate high-mountain loop.
Notes:
🕒 Open Season: Typically June to October (subject to snow)
🗺️ Elevation: 2,429 m
🧊 Home to the Rhone Glacier, visible from the road with an optional walk to the ice cave
🎬 Featured in the 1964 Bond movie Goldfinger
🏍️ Tight switchbacks, technical riding—watch for tour buses in summer
🧭 Connects well with Grimsel, Nufenen, and Gotthard
📍 Great spot for drone footage and panoramic photos
🚫 Check local updates for avalanche or fog warnings in early/late season
Day 2 - The Famous Stelvio Pass
Begin the day high in the Swiss Alps at Oberalp Pass, where cool mountain air and sweeping ridgelines set the tone for an unforgettable ride. Just steps from the pass, a red lighthouse marks the source of the Rhine River, a surreal and symbolic place to kick off your journey. As the morning light spills over the peaks, you’ll descend into remote valleys, traverse gravel routes like the Kunkels Pass, and work your way toward one of Europe’s most iconic rides: the Stelvio Pass. This is a day of contrasts—serene alpine lakes, wild switchbacks, and high-altitude drama at every turn.
Kunkel’s Pass
What:
A lesser-known gem tucked into the Graubünden region, Kunkel’s Pass offers a remote and peaceful ride over gravel and tarmac. It’s a narrow forested pass connecting Tamins to Vättis, with fantastic views over the Rhine Valley and very little traffic—ideal for riders seeking solitude and raw alpine atmosphere.
Notes:
🕒 Open Season: Typically May to October, depending on snow
🗺️ Elevation: 1,357 m
🛣️ Mixed surface: sections of gravel and narrow single-lane tarmac
🏍️ Not technical but requires confidence on unpaved roads
🌲 Surrounded by dense pine forest and rugged cliffs
📸 Great lookout points over Tamins and the surrounding valleys
⚠️ Limited facilities—no fuel or food stops on the pass
🚫 May be closed during heavy rain or snow—check local signage
Stelvio Pass
What:
Arguably the most iconic motorcycle road in Europe, Stelvio Pass is a hairpin-lover’s dream. With 48 tight switchbacks on the north side alone, this high-altitude giant offers a truly thrilling ride through the Italian Alps, climbing through rugged terrain to a windswept summit lined with sausage stands, souvenir huts, and jaw-dropping views.
Notes:
🕒 Open Season: Usually June to October (weather dependent)
🗺️ Elevation: 2,757 m — the second-highest paved pass in the Alps
🏍️ Famed for its challenge: tight, stacked hairpins with steep drop-offs
📸 Iconic view from the north approach—ideal for drone and action shots
🍽️ Bratwurst and espresso available at the summit kiosks
🧭 Connects with Umbrail Pass (Switzerland) and Bormio (Italy) for extended loops
🚧 Very busy in peak season—ride early or late in the day for fewer crowds
🎬 Featured in Top Gear and countless motorcycle films
Day 3 - The Best of the Dolomites
Today’s ride cuts straight through the rugged heart of the Dolomites, beginning with the majestic curves of Sella Pass—a bucket-list road for motorcyclists and mountain lovers alike. Framed by towering limestone spires and alpine meadows, this route delivers cinematic views at every turn. As you weave between valleys and ridgelines, you’ll connect epic passes like Gardena and Campolongo, and explore charming Tyrolean villages tucked into the hills. Whether you're chasing sunrise over the peaks or a well-earned espresso in Corvara, this is Dolomite riding at its finest.
Sella Pass
What:
A crown jewel of the Dolomites, Sella Pass connects Val Gardena with Val di Fassa, slicing through towering limestone spires and lush alpine meadows. Known for its cinematic beauty and flowing curves, it’s part of the legendary Sella Ronda loop, a must-ride for any motorcyclist exploring northern Italy.
Notes:
🕒 Open Season: Typically May to November, depending on snowfall
🗺️ Elevation: 2,218 m
🏍️ Smooth, sweeping roads with spectacular views at every bend
🏞️ Connects easily with Gardena, Pordoi, and Campolongo Passes
📸 Multiple viewpoints with parking and pull-offs—ideal for drone footage and panoramas
🍝 Cafés and rifugi near the summit for a scenic espresso or lunch stop
🚲 Shared with cyclists—especially busy during summer daylight hours
⚠️ Respect low gears on descent—steep gradients and hairpins
Gardena Pass
What:
A smooth and panoramic Dolomite pass connecting Val Gardena with Alta Badia, Gardena Pass is a highlight of the Sella Ronda and beloved for its long, flowing corners and unreal mountain backdrops. Surrounded by jagged peaks and rolling alpine pasture, it’s a dream ride whether you're leaning into curves or stopping for photos every five minutes.
Notes:
🕒 Open Season: Typically May to November (weather dependent)
🗺️ Elevation: 2,136 m
🏍️ Great for riders of all levels—well-paved and well-marked
🌄 Offers open views of the Sella Massif and Sassolungo Group
📸 Scenic pull-offs and wide shoulders for photography stops
🧭 Links easily with Sella, Campolongo, and Valparola Passes
☕ Several rifugi and cafés along the route—perfect for lunch or espresso with a view
🚴 Popular with cyclists—go early or late to avoid peak traffic
Lago di Braies
What:
Often called the "Pearl of the Dolomites," Lago di Braies is an emerald-green alpine lake backed by towering limestone peaks. Famous for its still waters, iconic boathouse, and surreal reflections, it's a magical stop whether you're strolling the shoreline or just pausing for a moment of silence.
Notes:
🕒 Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and capture soft light
💰 Parking Fee: €6–10 per day (lot fills up by mid-morning in high season)
🛶 Rowboat rentals available (seasonal – typically May to October)
🚶 Easy walking path (3.5 km) around the lake—flat and accessible
📸 Ideal for drone footage, photography, and quiet breaks off the bike
⚠️ Extremely popular with tourists—arrive early/late for the best experience
🧭 Located in the Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park near Dobbiaco
Day 4 - Hugging the Italy/Austria Border
Start the day off-grid in the hidden valleys of Cadore, riding deep into the rugged Carnic Alps. The morning begins with a peaceful visit to the Appostamento di Col Ciampon, a WWI lookout tucked above the cliffs—an atmospheric reminder of the region’s layered history. From there, the route winds through the rarely traveled Sella Ciampigotto, past sharp ridgelines and alpine meadows. As the day unfolds, you’ll conquer the brutal climb of Monte Zoncolan, cruise over the Austrian border via Plocken Pass, and finish in the foothills at Maniago before bedding down under the stars at Camping Le Bocole.
Appostamento di Col Ciampon
What:
A hidden World War I military outpost perched above the Cadore Valley, Appostamento di Col Ciampon offers a peaceful yet powerful window into the region’s wartime past. Reachable via a short forest hike, the viewpoint overlooks jagged peaks and rolling valleys—an atmospheric contrast to the high-speed passes of the Alps.
Notes:
🥾 Short hike required (approx. 20–30 minutes, moderate incline)
🕒 Best visited in the morning or golden hour for soft light and solitude
📸 Panoramic views across the Vigo di Cadore and the Dolomiti Bellunesi
🧭 Tucked just off the Sella Ciampigotto route—great detour for history buffs
⚠️ Not signposted—bring offline GPS or GPX track if you're navigating by trail
🧳 Wear sturdy boots—uneven terrain near the summit outpost
🌲 Ideal for a reflective break in a quiet, historical setting
Sella Ciampigotto
What:
Tucked deep in the eastern Dolomites, Sella Ciampigotto is a quiet, rugged mountain pass that feels far removed from the tourist trail. Winding through dense forest and alpine meadows, it offers a mix of narrow tarmac, wild scenery, and solitude. It’s one of those roads that feels like a secret—raw, remote, and incredibly rewarding.
Notes:
🕒 Open Season: Usually May to October, snow permitting
🗺️ Elevation: 1,790 m
🏍️ Narrow, lightly trafficked road—ideal for slower, scenic riding
🌲 Surrounded by forest, with sudden open views of the Carnic Alps
📸 Great for remote drone shots and quiet photo stops
🧭 Links Vigo di Cadore to Sauris or Zoncolan depending on your route
⚠️ No fuel or facilities along the pass—prepare before ascending
🧳 Watch for gravel patches and wildlife, especially early or late in the day
Monte Zoncolan
What:
A brutal and legendary climb featured in the Giro d’Italia, Monte Zoncolan is a bucket-list ascent for both cyclists and motorcyclists. Rising steeply from the village of Sutrio, this mountain delivers savage gradients, tight hairpins, and expansive views at the summit. It’s not just a road—it’s a statement ride.
Notes:
🗺️ Elevation: 1,750 m
🏍️ Known for steep inclines (up to 22%) and narrow forested ramps
🕒 Best ridden early in the day to avoid bicycle traffic
📸 Epic summit views and Giro d’Italia landmarks near the top
🚴 Cyclists frequent the route—ride respectfully and with caution
🧭 Approach from Sutrio (gentler) or Ovaro (brutal, avoid on large bikes)
⚠️ Sharp blind corners, crumbling edges—ride slow and steady
🧳 No fuel or café at the top—nearest services in Sutrio or Comeglians
Plocken Pass
What:
A high mountain crossing between Italy and Austria, Plöcken Pass is a historic and scenic route that once served as a key military corridor during World War I. Today, it’s a smooth and flowing road flanked by dramatic limestone walls and alpine forests, offering a peaceful yet engaging ride across borders.
Notes:
🗺️ Elevation: 1,357 m
🕒 Open seasonally — typically May to November, depending on snowfall
🏍️ Fast, flowing bends with good tarmac and moderate gradients
🧭 Connects Paluzza (Italy) to Kötschach-Mauthen (Austria)
📸 War memorial and WWI tunnels at the summit—quick walk and photo stop
🇮🇹🇦🇹 Border crossing: usually open and informal within the Schengen zone
⛽ Fuel and food available in Paluzza or Kötschach
🚴 Watch for cyclists in summer—share the road
Maniago
What:
A charming small town nestled at the edge of the Friulian Dolomites, Maniago is best known for its centuries-old blade-making tradition. It’s the perfect spot to slow the pace, grab an espresso, fuel up, and explore a bit of local culture before heading deeper into the wilderness or wrapping a riding day.
Notes:
🛠️ Home to the Museum of Cutlery – worth a quick visit for something unique and local
🏍️ Great place to refuel, both your bike and your body—several cafés and fuel stations
☕ Try a morning coffee at a local pasticceria for a quiet local vibe
🧭 Gateway town to/from the mountains—connects well with routes toward Zoncolan, Dolomites, or the plains
🅿️ Easy parking in the town square; motorcycle-friendly
📸 Nice architecture and mountain views, especially near Piazza Italia
🧳 Optional stopover if you’re heading south or east into Slovenia or the Adriatic coast
Day 5 - Lake Garda
Today’s ride marks a shift in landscape and rhythm as you leave the tight switchbacks of the Dolomites behind and descend toward the shimmering waters of Lake Garda. Entering from the north via Riva del Garda, the route hugs cliffside tunnels and turquoise shores, offering breathtaking lake views at every bend. Wind through charming lakeside towns like Malcesine, explore medieval castles, or hop a ferry across the water. End your day in Sirmione, a peninsula steeped in Roman history, cobbled streets, and thermal springs—where an evening lakeside meal awaits as the perfect end to a long ride.
Passo Rolle
What:
A stunning high mountain pass in the heart of the Dolomites, Passo Rolle (1,984 m) offers sweeping alpine views, dramatic peaks, and a sense of riding straight into a postcard. It’s a perfect mid-ride stop to stretch your legs, take in the scenery, or grab a snack before dropping into the next valley.
Notes:
🏔 Iconic Dolomite vistas – Dominated by the jagged Pale di San Martino, this is a photographer’s dream stop.
🏍 Rider’s delight – Smooth, flowing tarmac with plenty of curves; popular with bikers but not as crowded as the bigger Dolomite passes.
☕ Mountain rifugi & cafés – Great for a strudel, cappuccino, or a light lunch with panoramic views.
🅿️ Easy roadside parking – Plenty of safe spots to stop your bike and soak up the scenery.
📸 Top viewpoints – Stop at the summit area or pull-outs just before the pass for the most dramatic shots.
🧭 Connector pass – Links San Martino di Castrozza with Predazzo, ideal for looping into other Dolomite routes like Passo Valles or Passo Pordoi.
🧳 Optional overnight – Rifugi and small hotels nearby if you want a true alpine sunrise or sunset experience.
Riva del Garda
What:
Perched at the northern tip of Lake Garda, Riva del Garda blends alpine drama with a Mediterranean vibe. Palm trees meet mountains, and the sparkling lake makes this an ideal spot to wind down after carving mountain passes or to start a day’s ride with some lakeside energy.
Notes:
🌊 Lakeside beauty – Perfect for a stroll along the waterfront or snapping shots of bikes against the lake and mountains.
🏍 Gateway to great rides – Direct access to the SS45bis Gardesana, Monte Baldo, and routes toward the Dolomites or Trentino Alps.
☕ Cafés & gelato on the piazza – Enjoy a lakeside espresso or reward yourself with a gelato while watching the sailing boats.
🅿️ Bike-friendly parking – Ample lakeside and piazza parking spots; Riva is used to riders stopping in.
📸 Scenic old town – Narrow streets, colorful buildings, and the iconic Torre Apponale for a taste of local history.
🧭 Adventure hub – Popular with cyclists, climbers, and windsurfers, making it a lively spot to overnight or refuel before more remote roads.
🧳 Ideal overnight stop – Plenty of hotels and B&Bs if you want a lakefront evening and easy launch toward Lago di Ledro, Lago d’Idro, or Madonna di Campiglio the next day.
Malcesine Castle
What:
Perched on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, Castello Scaligero di Malcesine is a medieval gem rising dramatically above the water. It’s part history, part postcard view, and a must-stop if you’re riding the scenic Gardesana Orientale (SS249) along the lake.
Notes:
🏰 Historic highlight – A beautifully preserved Scaliger castle dating back to the 13th century, with winding staircases, battlements, and a small museum.
📸 Epic lake views – Climb the tower for panoramic shots of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains; perfect for that “bike + castle + lake” photo combo.
🏍 Lakeside riding stop – The SS249 to Malcesine is a fun, curvy ride with constant lake views, best tackled in the morning to avoid heavy traffic.
☕ Cafés & gelato nearby – The town has plenty of charming streets to grab a coffee, light lunch, or a quick gelato before continuing along the lake.
🅿️ Motorcycle-friendly parking – Paid parking near the castle and marina; short walk to the entrance.
🧭 Great loop option – Combine with a ride north toward Riva del Garda or south toward Torri del Benaco, possibly with a ferry crossing for a full lake circuit.
🧳 Optional overnight – Malcesine is a lively little town with lakeside hotels if you want to soak up evening views and avoid the daytime crowds.
Lake Garda
What:
Italy’s largest lake, Lago di Garda, is a stunning mix of alpine peaks in the north and Mediterranean vibes in the south. For riders, it’s a paradise of curvy lakeside roads, cliff-hugging tunnels, and ferry crossings, with countless charming towns to stop for coffee, gelato, or a sunset photo.
Notes:
🏍 Ultimate lakeside ride – The SS45bis (Gardesana Occidentale) and SS249 (Gardesana Orientale) hug the lake with dramatic tunnels, overhangs, and constant water views.
📸 Scenic overload – Sheer cliffs in the north, palm trees in the south; perfect photo spots at Limone sul Garda, Malcesine, and Torbole.
☕ Refuel the rider – Lakeside cafés and gelaterie are everywhere; treat yourself to a coffee, spritz, or stracciatella gelato with a view.
🧭 Adventure hub – Ideal base for loops into Dolomites, Monte Baldo, or the Trentino mountains, or ferry hops to the western shore.
🅿️ Bike-friendly towns – Riva del Garda, Limone, Malcesine, and Sirmione all offer parking and easy strolls for riders.
🛥 Ferry fun – Cross the lake with your bike to mix up the route; ferries run from Torri del Benaco and Maderno or Malcesine to Limone.
🧳 Overnight options – Lakeside hotels, agriturismi, or mountain rifugi with lake views; evenings are magical once day-trippers leave.
Sirmione
What:
A picturesque peninsula jutting into southern Lake Garda, Sirmione combines Roman ruins, thermal springs, medieval charm, and lakeside beauty. This classic lakeside town is perfect for a relaxing break: stroll the narrow lanes, explore ancient history, or enjoy a gelato with a view.
Notes:
🏰 Historical highlights – Home to the Grottoes of Catullus (Roman villa ruins overlooking the lake) and the striking Scaliger fortress guarding the town entrance.
📸 Scenic photo ops – The castle’s drawbridge, narrow canal-leading streets, and lake backdrop are ideal for capturing that immersive tourist-meets-rider shot.
☕ Lakeside cafés & gelateria – Plenty of spots to relax by the water, sip an espresso or Aperol spritz, and enjoy authentic Italian gelato with locals.
🧭 Gateway to Garda south – A perfect southern anchor point when riding your loop—easily transition from lakeside roads to the winding SS45bis up the western shore or head inland toward the Po Valley.
🅿️ Bike parking & pedestrian center – Motorcycle parking zones are available just outside the ZTL pedestrian zone; short walk to the heart of the town.
🌅 Evening ambiance – Fewer crowds in the evening make it a magical spot for sunset views from the castle ramparts or waterfront cafés.
🧳 Overnight stay options – Hotels, B&Bs, and even thermal spa resorts offer lakeside stays with wellness amenities, perfect if you want to unwind before your next ride.
Castello di Sirmione
What:
A stunning medieval fortress rising directly from the waters of Lake Garda, Castello Scaligero di Sirmione is one of Italy’s best-preserved castles and acts as the gateway to Sirmione’s historic centre
Notes:
🏰 Medieval fortress – Built in the late 13th to early 14th century by the powerful Scaligeri of Verona, its strategic lakeside location and defensive moat make it a rare example of a lacustrine fortress
📸 Iconic photo ops – Approach across the drawbridge and take the classic “bike + bridge + water fortress” shot. Climb the tower for panoramic views over Sirmione, the lake, and distant mountains
🧭 Entry & schedule – Open Tues–Sat from approximately 08:30 AM to between 7:00 and 7:15 PM (last tickets around 6:30 PM), and Sunday until early afternoon (around 13:30, last entry 12:45). Closed on Mondays, except limited hours in early autumn. Admission is approximately €8 for full ticket, reduced options available; guided tours offered for extra insight
☕ Nearby cafés & gelateria – After exploring the inner courtyard and ramparts, step into Sirmione’s pedestrian streets. Small cafés and gelaterie line the lanes for an espresso or spritz by the lakeside.
🅿️ Ride-friendly parking – Park your bike near Piazza Castello or just outside the ZTL pedestrian zone. It’s a short walk to the drawbridge entrance.
📜 Local legend & lore – The castle hosts a museum with displays on medieval Scaliger rule and local legends like the tragic figures of Ebengardo and Arice
🧳 Optional visit combo – Combine with the Grottoes of Catullus (Roman villa ruins) and a lakeside stroll. Consider staying if you're heading through southern Lake Garda or onward to Verona or Mantua.
Grotte di Catullo
What:
At the tip of the Sirmione peninsula, the Grotte di Catullo are the sprawling ruins of a grand Roman villa dating back to the 1st century AD. Surrounded by olive trees and lake views, it’s a peaceful historic stop before or after exploring Sirmione’s medieval center.
Notes:
🏛 Roman villa ruins – Terraces, porticoes, and a panoramic cryptoportico overlooking Lake Garda.
📸 Epic photo spots – Combine crumbling stone arches with lake and mountain backdrops.
🧭 Quick visit & museum – Around 40 minutes to explore the site and its small archaeological museum with mosaics and artifacts.
🌿 Olive grove setting – The entrance and approach are lined with centuries‑old olive trees.
🅿️ Motorcycle‑friendly – Parking at the site’s entrance; easy short walk to the ruins.
🧳 Perfect combo stop – Pair with Castello di Sirmione, a gelato in town, or as a cultural break during your Lake Garda loop.
Riding through the Swiss and Italian Alps is more than just carving through bends and ticking off mountain passes—it’s a journey that seeps into your memory. Between the towering peaks, mirror‑still lakes, and villages that seem frozen in time, every day on the bike feels like stepping into a living postcard.
Whether it was tackling the sweeping switchbacks, stumbling on a hidden café serving the best espresso of the trip, or camping under skies so clear you could see every star, this adventure was the perfect reminder of why we ride: freedom, discovery, and those rare moments where the world slows down just for you.
As I packed up my gear and pointed the bike west, I couldn’t help but think—I’ll be back. The Alps have a way of calling you again, and next time, I already know which passes I’m chasing.