Gran Fondo Colnago 2025

A long weekend for the rider in love with challenging themselves on and off the Gravel! Featuring entry to the Colnago Garda Gravel event, and the Gran Fondo Colnago.

The Colnago Cycling Festival at Lake Garda is a premier event that blends cycling excitement with breath-taking scenery. Set against the stunning backdrop of Italy's largest lake, the festival offers riders an array of routes that cater to all skill levels, from casual cyclists to seasoned racers. Participants are treated to challenging climbs, exhilarating descents, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lake. Beyond the ride, the festival fosters a vibrant atmosphere with expos featuring the latest cycling gear, local cuisine, and a celebration of cycling culture. It’s a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to enjoy world-class cycling in one of Europe's most picturesque settings.

  • START LINE: Desenzano del Garda
  • FINISH LINE: Desenzano del Garda
  • TOTAL DISTANCE: 351km
  • TOTAL ASCENT: 4210m
Gran Fondo Entry
Guided Prep Rides
Colnago G4-X available to hire
Colnago Garda Gravel Entry
Mechanical Support
Transfers
  • Activity level: ⬤⬤⬤⬤ LEVEL 4 – Esperto.
    - Cycling is part of my daily thoughts.
    - I can’t get the Italian mountains and countryside out of my mind.
    - If I could, I would move to Italy and cycle every day and drink coffee.
    - Do wheelies all the time.
  • Duration: 5 days | 4 nights
  • Dates: April 10 - 14 2025
  • Price from: €1399
  • Single supplement €399
  • Room upgrade available: Yes
Book Now
 

The Perfect Holiday

Is this what I’m looking for?  

  • Are you wanting to celebrate cycling culture with the most famous bike brand in the world?
  • Have you been searching for a holiday that combines great riding and great organisation?
  • Do you want to challenge yourself in both the Colnago Garda Gravel and Colnago Gran Fondo events?
  • Are you passionate about bikes and everything Italy?

Magical & Unforgettable

What to look forward to….

  • Nothing beats being there! Be the envy of your cycling friends.
  • Challenge yourself on the beautiful gravel and road routes.
  • Be inspired by the stunning scenery of Lake Garda.
  • Enjoy a glass of your favourite tipple to celebrate finishing the Gran Fondo.
  • Let our world-class staff take the hassle out of your holiday.

Stages of your Tour

  1. Benvenuto

    52 km | 470m thur 10 apr

    On arrival you will be met by one of our friendly staff and transferred towards the southerly tip of Lake Garda. Desenzano is rightly considered to be one of the jewels in the crown of Lake Garda. Hotel Palace is the perfect place to ride from, relax and unwind. 

    For those hiring bikes, we will be available to do a bike fit and make any adjustments that may be necessary. Fitting pedals, lights, saddles etc. is our job and not yours! In the late afternoon we will head off on our first ride along the western part of Lake Garda. Our destination is Salò, a town which overlooks Sirmione. This beautiful ride is the perfect start to your trip. 

    Dinner this evening is in our favourite restaurant looking out over the lake, only a 5-minute walk down the road.  


    Hotel Palace | Desenzano

  2. san zeno in montagna

    89km | 960m fri 11 apr

    The ride begins in the vibrant town of Desenzano, following a route that hugs the lake’s picturesque shores before climbing into the charming village of Torri del Benaco, known for its historic castle and stunning lake views. From there, the ascent continues to San Zeno in Montagna, offering panoramic vistas of the lake and the lush Valpolicella vineyards. The return route takes you through the renowned wine region of Valpolicella, where the rolling hills and vineyards create a serene backdrop. This day of cycling combines diverse landscapes, charming villages, and the rewarding experience of discovering the beauty of northern Italy.

    Hotel Palace | Desenzano

  3. colnago garda gravel

    69km | 490m sat 12 apr

    The Colnago Garda Gravel – Terra del Garda is an exhilarating cycling experience set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Garda. Riders embark on a journey that blends challenging gravel trails with breathtaking scenery, weaving through vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque villages. The event offers various routes tailored to different skill levels, ensuring that both seasoned cyclists and enthusiastic beginners can enjoy the adventure. Along the way, participants are treated to the region’s natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, making it a memorable day of sport and exploration.

    Hotel Palace | Desenzano

  4. Gran Fondo colnago

    142 km | 2300M sun 13 apr

    A day at the Gran Fondo Colnago in Desenzano del Garda begins with the early morning buzz of excitement as cyclists from around the world gather at the starting line. The picturesque town, nestled on the southern shore of Lake Garda, provides a stunning backdrop as riders set off on their journey. The route winds through rolling hills, quaint villages, and along the serene lakeshore, offering both challenging climbs and exhilarating descents. Along the way, participants enjoy well-stocked rest stops with local delicacies and refreshing beverages. The camaraderie among riders and the support of enthusiastic spectators create a festive atmosphere. As the day concludes, cyclists cross the finish line to the applause of cheering crowds, celebrating their achievements with a well-deserved rest and the beautiful views of Lake Garda.


    Hotel Palace | Desenzano

  5. Arrivederci!

    home mon 14 apr

    All good things must come to an end, and after a relaxing breakfast chatting through the experiences of the weekend and the completion of the Gran Fondo our staff will get you where you need to be for onward travel.

    Home

BIKE HIRE

The perfect cycling holiday requires pedaling on the perfect bike. So should you not wish to bring your own bike with you we have a number of beautiful bikes that you can hire at very reasonable prices. If you are not sure what is the perfect bike for you then fire us an email and we will be delighted give you some expert advice. You can find more information about our bikes below. And yes, you can buy our bikes if you fall in love with them!

Colnago V3 - the perfect road bike to hire on our more challenging cycling holidays. As you would expect it’s lightweight, aerodynamic with great handling.

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COLNAGO V3

COMPONENTS:

  • Shimano 105 12 Speed Di2 Drivetrain (50/34 Chainset and 11-34 Cassette)
  • Fulcrum Racing 600 Wheelset
  • Pirelli P7 Sport 28mm Tyres
  • Shimano 105 Hydraulic Disc Brakes (160mm rotors)
  • Selle Italia Novus Boost Evo Flow saddle
  • (Sizes: XXS(42S), XS(45S), S(48S), M(50S), L(52S), XL(54S), XXL(56S), XXXL(58S))

Colnago G4-X - one of the finest gravel bikes in the world from one of the most famous and respected brands in the world. A dream to ride on the gravel and the road!

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COLNAGO G4-X

COMPONENTS:

  • Shimano GRX 822 1x - 42T 1x Chainset, 12 Speed 10-51T Cassette
  • Fulcrum Rapid Red 900 Wheelset
  • Shimano GRX Hydraulic Disc Brakes (160mm rotors)
  • Prologo Kappa BK saddle
  • Sizes: 46s - 58s

What’s included?

  • 4 nights' 4* accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • 3 dinners
  • Water and coffee are complimentary during meals that are included in the package
  • Transfers (from specified airports/train stations)
  • Entry Colnago Gravel Garda
  • Entry GF Colango
  • Ex pro guided & supported rides with snacks and water
  • Bike cleaning service
  • GPX routes
  • IBT Jersey
  • Water bottle
  • City taxes

What’s not included?

  • Travel Insurance (must be purchased before the tour)
  • Flights
  • Bike hire
  • Lunches
  • Nutrition
  • Beverages
  • Tips and gratuities
 
 

Still Undecided?

Here is what our clients say about us………

I wish I could give Italy Bike Tours six stars. They are by far the best tour company I've been with. Our custom Tuscany/Strade Bianche/Lake Iseo tour was amazing and the guides and staff, John, Chris, Sylvia, Albi, Matt and Matteo, ensured our trip was seamless!

Travis | Strade Bianche Private tour

The nuts and Bolts

Useful information about your holiday

Where to Meet

Please arrange to meet us at Milan Bergamo (BGY) or train station between 12:00 - 14:00 or your agreed meeting location. We will contact you via WhatsApp in the days leading up to the start of your tour to confirm your transfer and the name of the staff member collecting you. Alternative transfers can be arranged but may incur an additional cost.

Drop off Location

Following the conclusion of the tour we will assist you with planning and booking of onward travel. We will run one transfer to Bergamo (BGY) airport or train station leaving in the late morning after breakfast.

Transfer Time

Please consider eating lunch before we collect you from Bergamo. The transfer time from the airport to the hotel is 1 hour.

Riding on Lake Garda

The riding on Lake Garda is beautiful. The rolling roads are surrounded by hills, lakes, mountains and fantastic scenery.

Cuisine

The food is outstanding in the Garda area. The region is famed for pasta and soups. Being on the lake there is a great selection of fish available. Restaurants now cater for both vegan and vegetarians. Please advise us about any special dietary requirements on the welcome questionnaire. Homemade local wines and beer a must to try.

Hotel Facilities

The hotel has two outdoor swimming pools a lovely bar area to enjoy an afternoon aperativo. There are also spa facilities available. Hotels may charge extra for the use of these facilities.
Private Tours & Groups

You may wish to make our Colnago Gran Fondo package even more special. We therefore welcome the opportunity to discuss with you a private tour should you be in a group of more than four people. The private tour allows you to choose dates and personalise the itinerary according to your requirements.

Weather

The weather in Desenzano in April should be perfect for riding. Our experienced guides will amend rides, routes and timings to ensure you are riding in safe and hopefully sunny conditions.

What happens next?

Are you thinking about joining us? You probably have some questions! There are a number of ways to contact us, email is best, we will reply within 24 hours. You can also find a contact form at the bottom of this page.

 

Your Stay

HOTEL PALACE DESENZANO

 
 

Get In Touch

If you would prefer to give us a call and talk cycling and Italy please WhatsApp us on the number below and we will arrange a call back.

ITA: +39 320 638 4713

Or you can chat to us online also by clicking the button at bottom right of page.

Drop us a direct email to info@italybiketours.com