Gravel Bike Experience 2020
Our second Gravel Bike Experience has come to an end. Throughout three days we guided our group on regional rides far away from the busy trafficked roads and introduced them to the splendor of South Tyrol in autumn.
Led by our own Mario Kummer and Elena Valentini, the group discovered gravel trails around Bolzano that led them up the majestic mountains surrounding this South Tyrolean city and offered them breathtaking views in the clear, crisp autumn air.
Read Mario’s highlights of this second edition, and don’t miss the GPS tracks of this year’s gravel routes which are available at the end of the Mario’s review.
Day 1 - Montiggl Forest
On day one, after welcoming the guests, we went for a comfortable ride through the Montiggl Forest, which is right on our doorstep. The ride gave everyone a good overview of the area.
This gravel trail leads to a surprising view of two pristine lakes surrounded by woods. The descent to the main lake is an exciting challenge that offers some real fun and tests your technical skills!
The equipment
for any riding condition
Dottore X Bib shorts
Jersey Hybrid Que X
Hybrid Que Glove
Day 2 - Oclini Pass
A major challenge was presented the next day when we faced the Oclini Pass.
A moderate incline following the old railway line to Cavalese was the perfect warm up. Ahead were the steep trails to the the top of the pass.
Thanks to the right gears and tires, there was nothing to stop us from climbing to 2,000 meters and the top of the pass. It was pure exhilaration!
With the snow line close by, we had an amazing view of the fantastical formations for which the Dolomites are so famous.
Having accomplished this feat, we allowed ourselves to enjoy the descent. Dinner by the lake was a hearty “Törggelen“, a typical autumn meal that includes local specialities, regional wines and roasted chestnuts, was the perfect way to regenerate and boost our energy levels for the next day.
The right gear
to get to the top
WolF Bib shorts
Jersey long sleeve WoolF
Adventure Backpack
Day 3 - Stone Cairns
On day three we took the cable car from Burgstall to Verano, this saved us from about 1,000 meters of altitude and allowed us to start the difficult climb up to the Stone Cairns with energy and elan.
Being up at these altitudes felt like being on top of the world. With a 360 degree view, the whole world was at our feet. For me, this was the highlight. The amazing views, the perfect weather, the special atmosphere, the fun group: it couldn’t have gotten any better. A quick descent took us back to Bolzano via San Genesio. From there, we headed back to Caldaro along the old railway line.
Despite the intense effort needed to complete this tour, everyone had a smile on their face at the end of the day – satisfaction ruled!
The perfect kit
for Adventure
Adventure Winter Tights
Adventure Vest
Jersey short sleeve WoolF
A great privilege
Having the opportunity to discover the most beautiful areas of South Tyrol, far away from traffic and stress, is a great privilege.
Mario
Enjoy the breathtaking view.
This was not only my first experience with the Q36.5 team but also the first time on a gravel bike.
I was warmly welcomed and immediately found myself at ease, for this I thank all the participants! I think it was a very interesting event for those who were there because in addition to pedaling while having fun, we were able to listen to the presentations of the company’s new products and touch them firsthand!
My favorite moment was the polenta with sausage on Friday afternoon at the lake! ;) Joking aside, I really liked the Stoanerne Mandl (Stone Men) climb reached after so much effort on Saturday morning. That was a difficult route with challenging ramps on the dirt roads and also with some very technical sections, but it was worth it when we got to the top to enjoy the breathtaking view!
I can't wait for the next Gravel Event!
Ivan
Magnificent
Our Gravel event was magnificent!
I led a fantastic group and it was a real pleasure.
The Dolomites were the perfect playground: lots of kilometers, lots of climbs, but also local culinary delights and great local wines. The wine tasting led by the owner of our hotel, Haus am Hang, was the icing on the cake!
Elena
GRAVEL ROUTES & GPX FILES
