Early Spring Sunshine
Spring Rides, Quiet Roads: Your Cycling Journey starts on Lake Iseo
Ride into the sunshine - the perfect early season cycling holiday in Italy
Welcome to a cycling journey that captures the essence of springtime in Italy - gentle sunshine, serene lakes, and roads that invite you to ride with a smile. This early season cycling holiday blends relaxation and adventure, local flavor and breathtaking scenery. From your first pedal stroke along Lake Iseo’s shimmering shores to the vineyards of Franciacorta wine region, the ancient valley of Val Camonica, and the cobbled beauty of Bergamo Città Alta, every day reveals a new side of authentic Italy.
Whether you’re here to awaken your legs after the cycling off-season, discover the joy of electric bike tours in Italy, or simply share unforgettable rides with friends, this itinerary is designed to leave you inspired, refreshed, and very much in love with life on two wheels.
Bergamo Città Alta Visit
Guided Rides
Wine Tasting
Boat Trip
Transfers
Mechanical Support
Guest Reviews
Went on a trip of a lifetime to Italy with my two best friends. We experienced an incredible 5 day “Early Spring Sunshine” tour hosted by Italy Bike Tours. Christian, our lead tour guide, was fully competent and so much fun. In addition, we were supported by Carlo and Marco who were also fantastic. From beautiful scenic rides, great dining, wine tour/tasting they had it all covered to enhance our experience. We felt safe and secure with their riding support and any issue, like a flat tire, was dealt with in moments. This was my first bike tour but definitely not the last. I will use and recommend Italy Bike Tours in future.
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Just finished the Early Spring Sunshine Tour and can’t say enough good things about it. My first ever bike tour so I don’t have anything to compare it to but there is not one single thing I can think of that could have been better. Christian, our guide, was amazing. He kept us safe and shared not only his knowledge of the area, but his love of food (he used to be a chef). Carlo in the support van was there waiting whenever we needed him (which was often, many flat tires!), and Marco..#1 freshman guide, perfectly rounded out the team supporting us. The food was fantastic, even the lunch stops and the activities planned outside of the ride were all great as well. We were kept so busy I didn’t have time to start the book I brought with me. You will not be disappointed if you do a tour with this company. Wholeheartedly recommend. And a final note, we were three 50-something moms, who are not avid cyclists at home. We get out a bit and also ride spin bikes at home, but never felt it was too much. If you are in the same situation, the e-bikes will make it doable. Thank you again Italy Bike Tours, can’t wait to see you again!!
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Italy Bike Tours have delivered another outstanding cycling tour to 6 of us from Australia. Our guides and support personnel were incredibly professional, supportive and flexible. This is my second tour with IBT and once again I thank the whole team for giving us life long memories.
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Great team, awesome location, incredible tour! Our guides Stefano and Matteo were excellent, super fun, very flexible and made the experience all the more enjoyable! Can’t wait to return for our next tour 🫶🏻
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Savi, Anita, Simone and Lucy really made us all feel so welcome. Stunning rides, amazing views and expert knowledge of the regions made it a solid 10/10 trip. Highly recommend for those wanting to ride and experience Italy. Thanks for the memories!
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We’ve just finished two amazing tours with IBT and have loved every minute. The guides have been expert, skilled and very supportive. The additional personal touches like pick-ups and transfers made it a pleasure to travel. Thank you again IBT!
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I just finished the Luxury Lakes and Vineyards tour with IBT and am very happy with the entire experience. The team at IBT take very good care of you from the initial pick-up at the train station to dropping you off at the end - how nice is THAT. Our guides Savi and Anita were superb and knew every pathway and curve of the areas we toured and always had our safety and comfort in mind. Weather can never be certain anywhere in the world and on the one rainy day we got to ‘tough it out’ at a vineyard lunch. Our bikes were ready every morning and in perfect condition. The beauty of the area itself is just breathtaking, the food superb, the wines delicious. Lucy manages the trip and takes care of every detail with grace and efficiency. Thank you to everyone.
Read moreIn the Saddle
WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD to on-bike
- Hilly ride through Franciacorta’s vineyards
- Cycle Val Camonica’s stunning landscapes and UNESCO sites
- Scenic loop around Lake Iseo with charming town stops
- Pedal up to historic Bergamo Città Alta
- Optional sunrise ride or extend your adventure!
Itinerary
17 km | 60 m
Welcome to Italy! Your holiday begins the moment you arrive. One of our friendly Italy Bike Tours team members will greet you at the airport or designated meeting point and transfer you to the beautiful La Pieve Lake Hotel on the shores of Lake Iseo.
Upon arrival, we’ll take care of your luggage and check-in before preparing your bike for a relaxing leg-loosener ride - the perfect way to stretch the legs and get comfortable on your bike while soaking in your first views of the lake.
As evening comes, relax with a tasty Italian dinner by the beautiful Lake Iseo. Enjoy great food, good company, and the start of an unforgettable week of cycling in Italy.
Hotel La Pieve | Pisogne | Lake Iseo
55 km | 440 m
After a delicious breakfast served al fresco by the pool, we’ll start the day with a quick safety briefing before setting off on a gentle ride west of Lake Iseo. Much of today’s route follows scenic cycle paths, including the stunning 9km stretch from Vello to Toline, known for its breathtaking views.
Our destination is the renowned Franciacorta wine region, where we’ll visit one of the beautiful local wineries. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour, wine tasting, and a selection of local cheeses and cured hams.
Afterwards, we’ll transfer you back to the hotel for a relaxing aperitivo. In the evening, you’re free to wander and soak up the charm of Pisogne’s historic centre at your own pace.
Hotel La Pieve | Pisogne | Lake Iseo
81 km | 450 m
After enjoying a classic Italian brioche and excellent coffee, we’ll set off north along the scenic cycle path through Val Camonica - a valley blessed with crystal-clear rivers and towering mountains that stretch into the bright blue sky. Today’s ride is mostly flat, leading us to the charming Alpine town of Capo di Ponte.
Here, we’ll pause to explore before starting our guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, discovering the fascinating history behind the famous prehistoric rock drawings.
On the return ride, take in the stunning scenery and capture memorable photos along the way. Tonight, dinner awaits on Monte Isola, Europe’s largest lake island. In springtime, Monte Isola offers a peaceful, authentic experience with very few tourists.
Hotel La Pieve | Pisogne | Lake Iseo
65 km | 340 m
No trip to Lake Iseo is complete without cycling the iconic loop around the lake itself. This ride is pure cycling paradise, offering a glimpse of Italy at its most authentic - untouched by mass tourism. With the shimmering lake on our right, we’ll set off from the hotel and pedal through charming towns including Iseo, Sarnico, Riva di Solto, Castro, and Lovere. Along the way, we’ll stop for coffee and a delicious lunch to recharge.
In the evening, you’re free to wander and soak up the atmosphere of Pisogne’s historic centre, a perfect way to end the day.
Hotel La Pieve | Pisogne | Lake Iseo
40 km | 180 m
This morning, we’ll transfer you by van a short distance to the charming town of Clusone in the neighboring valley. Take some time to enjoy a relaxing coffee before hopping on your bike for a scenic ride through Val Seriana to Bergamo Città Alta.
As the capital of the province, Bergamo Città Alta is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to experience authentic, unspoilt Italy. The route follows mostly cycle paths, perfect for chatting, snapping photos, and soaking up the stunning surroundings.
Upon arrival, we’ll indulge in delicious ice cream - before or after lunch - followed by a hands-on experience making the region’s famous casoncelli pasta.
This evening, enjoy a leisurely dinner at the hotel restaurant, a wonderful opportunity to reflect on your incredible journey and dream about your next cycling adventure!
La Pieve | Pisogne | Lake Iseo
All good things must come to an end - but not before one last ride! Start your final day with an optional early morning spin before breakfast, soaking in the peaceful beauty of the Italian landscape one last time.
Afterward, we’ll gladly assist with your onward travel plans. And if you’re not quite ready to say goodbye, we’d be happy to help you extend your stay and arrange more unforgettable days of cycling in Italy.
Dates & Prices
| Dates | Price | Availability | ||
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| Sun 29 Mar - Fri 03 Apr | From €2399 |
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| Sun 05 Apr - Fri 10 Apr | From €2399 |
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| Sun 12 Apr - Fri 17 Apr | From €2399 |
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| Sun 19 Apr - Fri 24 Apr | From €2399 |
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Ridley Bikes & Gear
Ridley ASTR GRX600 – Explore epic landscapes! Lightweight, responsive, and adventure-ready. Perfect for gravel, touring, and thrill seekers.
Ridley Kalazy – Cruise in comfort with flat handlebars, smooth ride, and stylish design. Ideal for relaxed, scenic holiday cycling.
Ridley Urbx Mixte E-Bike – Glide through your holiday with ease; upright comfort, smooth handling, and stylish design making every ride relaxing, scenic, and unforgettable.
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))
3T ULTRA
COMPONENTS:
- Shimano GRX 822 1x - 40T 1x Chainset, 12 Speed 10-51T Cassette
- Fulcrum Rapid Red 900 Wheelset
- Shimano GRX Hydraulic Disc Brakes (160mm rotors)
- Selle Italia Model X Superflow
- Sizes: 48 - 61
The nuts and Bolts
What's Included?
- 5 nights' 4* accommodation
- Transfers (from specified airport/train location)
- All breakfasts
- 3 dinners
- Water and coffee are complimentary during meals that are included in the package
- Beautifully planned rides
- Experienced team of local professionals
- GPX Routes
- Bike hire & helmet
- Tour of vineyard and wine tasting
- Visit to the stunning Bergamo Città Alta
- Pasta making - the italian way!
- Boat trip to Montisola
- Van and mechanical support with snacks and water
- Bike cleaning service
- IBT cycling jersey
- IBT water bottle
- City taxes
What's Not Included?
- Travel insurance (must be purchased before the tour)
- Flights
- Beverages
- Lunches
- Nutrition
- Tips and gratuities
At a Glance
- Level: Ideal for cyclists of all levels,looking for gentle rides and some scenic views.
- Total Kilometres: Around 260 km (161 miles) of stunning cycling around Lake Iseo and surrounding valleys.
- When: April (early spring) - perfect for spring cycling holidays with mild weather and fewer tourists.
- Start: The tour begins at La Pieve Lake Hotel on the shores of Lake Iseo. Many guests enjoy exploring Milan before starting the tour.
- Finish: Same as the start.
- Nearest Airport: We recommend looking into flights to Bergamo (BGY) or Milan (LIN, MXP).
- Top Tip: Spring in Italy brings warm, sunny days but variable weather - wear layers. br
- Average Age of Guest: 60 years old.
- Male vs Female %: Roughly balanced, about 50/50 between male and female guests.
| Where to Meet |
Please arrange to meet us at Milan Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY) between 12:00 and 14:00 on day 1. 24 hours before meeting we will contact you via WhatsApp to confirm the name of the staff member meeting you. Alternative transfers can be arranged but may incur a cost. |
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| 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 Milan Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY) leaving in the late morning. |
| Transfer Time |
The transfer time from Milan Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY) to the lake hotel is about 1 hour. |
| Riding around the lakes and surrounding valleys |
The general road conditions in the area are good, but can be affected by weather events. This tour features riding on public roads and cycle paths; the roads are shared with cars and bikers. |
| Cuisine |
The food is excellent in the region of Lombardia. Restaurants now cater for both vegan and vegetarians. Homemade local wines and beer are a must to try. Please inform us of any special dietary requirements when completing the welcome questionnaire. |
| Hotel Facilities |
The hotel on this tour has a spa and swimming pool, so we recommend bringing your swimming costume. The hotel also has a laundry service, good WiFi, and bar service. The hotel may charge extra for the use of these facilities. |
| Private Tours & Groups |
We welcome the opportunity to discuss a private tour with you should you be in a group of six or more. A private tour allows you to choose dates and personalize the itinerary according to your requirements. |
| Weather |
Spring is a fantastic time to ride on Lake Iseo, with temperatures around 18°C (64.4°F). |
| 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. Please check your SPAM/JUNK folder should you not have received an email in this time. You can also find a contact form at the bottom of this page! |
Hotel
HOTEL LA PIEVE ★★★★
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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 by clicking the button at bottom right of page.
Drop us a direct email to: info@italybiketours.com
