Beyond Venice Lagoon by Bike | Self-Guided Bike Tour

Welcome to the Veneto region!

The journey begins in the area that is home to the Euganean Thermal Basin, located at the foot of the Euganean Hills, the largest thermal spa center in Europe.

When you arrive at the hotel in Battaglia Terme, our friendly guides will help you fit your bike for comfort. We will start with a warm-up ride through the beautiful Euganean Hills.

This will let you enjoy the stunning scenery and prepare for the exciting adventures ahead!

Departing from Terme di Bici, you will soon arrive in Padua.

On the journey, you’ll encounter numerous Venetian villas, including the stunning Villa Molin, created by architect Scamozzi. Padua is renowned for three prominent historical figures: Saint Anthony, whose relics are housed within the Franciscan Basilica; Galileo Galilei, the astrophysicist and educator at the prestigious University; and Giotto, one of the most significant artists of the 14th and 16th centuries. After exploring the historic center, you will cycle along the Bacchiglione River, which separates the city of the Saint from Vicenza. The enjoyable riverside path provides expansive views of the Euganean Hills and subsequently the Berici Hills. Your arrival in Vicenza is signaled by the soaring bell tower of the Sanctuary of Monte Berico and two masterpieces by Andrea Palladio: Villa Almerico Capra “La Rotonda” and the adjacent Arco delle Scalette.

The route between Vicenza and Bassano del Grappa is filled with scenic and artistic inspirations.

At the base of the Asiago Plateau lies an area rich in underground waters that surface, creating numerous springs. As we proceed towards Bassano, we encounter Sandrigo, renowned for its tradition of the famous Vicenza-style cod. Our next stop is Marostica, where visitors are greeted by its ancient walls and castles. Known globally for the chess game held every two years in its picturesque square, Marostica is also celebrated for its cherry production. The journey concludes in Bassano del Grappa, a city that captivates and delights those who explore its unique architecture and stunning landscapes. Situated along the Brenta River and at the foothills of Grappa Mountain, the city is famous for its wooden bridge designed by Palladio, which has become a symbol of the Alpini. Enjoying a glass of grappa at the end of the day serves as the perfect reward for the fourth day of this adventure through the Veneto.

The impressive Grappa Mountain marks the starting point of the journey, surrounded by twisting hills, small valleys, and plateaus that create constantly shifting scenery. Perched on a hill is the charming and graceful town of Asolo, known as “the city of a hundred horizons,” with the prominent silhouette of its Rocca rising over a verdant expanse of olive and cypress trees. Not far away lies Maser, a village renowned for its Palladian villa, a true masterpiece of 16th-century architecture. From Montebelluna, just a few pedal strokes lead to a natural environment rich in historical significance: the Montello. This hill, situated on the Treviso plain, serves as a perfect destination for enjoyable outings, including stops at local farmhouses. The last portion of the route traverses the Marca region, where history interweaves with contemporary life; side roads provide access to Treviso, whose ancient center is enclosed by the original Renaissance city walls.

Following the path of the Sile River, which is the longest spring-fed river in Europe, you depart from the 14th-century town of Treviso and make your way towards the Venetian Lagoon. Along the riverbanks, various points of interest appear, such as Casier, a trading hub between the countryside and the lagoon since ancient times, where the unique sound of a water clock can be heard. Next, you come across Casale sul Sile, a critical location for managing river traffic, as highlighted by the medieval tower constructed in the 14th century by the noble Carraresi family. As you arrive in Quarto d’Altino, the sea breeze carries the fragrances of the lagoon. Close to the contemporary town center, you can find the archaeological site of a port city that the Romans established. Following the barbarian invasions, the city was destroyed, and its residents sought refuge in the lagoon, helping to establish Venice. The city of the lagoon serves as an intriguing destination on this circular journey through the historic territories of the Serenissima empire.

After exploring the historic center of the lagoon, board a ferry to the Lido of Venice, where your cycling adventure begins. The route follows the shoreline facing the lagoon before crossing Santa Maria Elisabetta avenue, from which the town’s main roads branch off. You will soon arrive at the Marconi seafront, home to the most prominent buildings in the tourist area: the Gran Hotel des Bains, the Casino, the Cinema Exhibition Palace, and the distinctive Moorish-style Grand Hotel Excelsior. Upon reaching the natural reserve of Alberoni, take the ferry to the island of Pellestrina. After disembarking at Santa Maria del Mare, proceed toward the port of S. Pietro in Volta, characterized by its 18th-century church surrounded by modest fishermen’s cottages and gardens. As you head south, you will first arrive at the village of Portosecco, where you can still observe women engaged in lace-making, followed by the charming center of Pellestrina featuring 16th and 17th-century homes. From Pellestrina, hop on the vaporetto to reach Chioggia, the final destination for the day.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the historic church of Sant’Andrea, and the medieval tower are the key landmarks in the charming old town of Chioggia, located among its narrow streets and canals. Be sure to visit the vibrant fish market, situated between the square and the Canal della Vena. This route follows the ancient salt way that linked the lagoon with the Venetian cities. In Correzzola, you’ll discover the 16th-century Benedictine estate, which showcases the significant land reclamation efforts undertaken by the monks in this region. After passing through Pontelongo, you will continue alongside the riverbank and move through the fortified town of Bovolenta. The journey progresses towards the Euganean Hills, visible in the distance with their distinctive volcanic shapes. Along the way, you will encounter numerous Venetian villas, the riverside village of Pontemanco, and historic stone bridges. The itinerary concludes in Battaglia Terme, a quaint town that features a unique museum dedicated to the history of river navigation.

The tour has come to an end, and it’s time to head home with a backpack full of memories and adventures.

We look forward to seeing you again for your next journey!