The Lunga Via delle Dolomiti is one of the most beautiful cycle paths in Europe. This is all thanks to the landscape it crosses, surrounded by some of the most famous Dolomite peaks, recognized by Unesco as a Natural World Heritage Site: from Antelao to Pelmo, from Croda Marcora to Tofane, legendary peaks of powerful beauty.
Following the itinerary of the old Dolomite railway, built during the First World War and decommissioned in 1964, you can still see the original stations, tunnels and bridges, which witnessed various historical events, starting with the wars and the 1956 Winter Olympics in Cortina.
Stopping in S. Vito di Cadore at the Ethnographic Museum located inside the old railway station, it is possible to visit a model of the famous "blue train of the Dolomites" in perfect working order, complete with switches and tunnel.
Completely closed to traffic, asphalted, with constant and easy to tackle gradients, the cycle path winds its way through the most picturesque villages of Cadore: the starting or finishing point, depending on the gradient chosen, is Calalzo di Cadore, and then on to Pieve, Valle, Vodo, Borca and San Vito di Cadore. You can then continue to Cortina, Cimabanche, Dobbiaco and, if you wish, go as far as Lienz (Austria).
This is an itinerary that allows you to appreciate majestic views and small mountain villages, where life still flows slowly and undisturbed. The route has a slight incline if you take it from San Vito in the direction of Bale. (average gradient 1.2 %).
Cycling in the Dolomites is a unique experience to discover the architectural beauty, traditions and flavors of places rich in history and timeless legends. In addition to the many natural beauties, you can admire some architectural gems, such as the late-Gothic churches with ancient frescoes, the Chiesa della Difesa in San Vito, the Chiesa di San Giovanni in Vodo, Casa Costantini in Valle, or the parish church in Borca.
Pieve di Cadore is the "historical capital" of this land where the great painter Titian Vecellio was born in 1477, and whose house can be visited. Pieve is also the seat of the Magnifica Comunità di Cadore, a historical institution and symbol of the ancient federal union formed in the 14th century.
Here it is also possible to visit the Museo dell'Occhiale (Museum of Glasses), set up not by chance in the home of eye wear.
