The Valbelluna Ring runs through the lower part of the Piave Valley from Belluno to Feltre. In addition to the two art towns, you will encounter historic villages, museums, natural sites and Venetian villas, all set against an alpine landscape protected by the Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park. The route has no difficult climbs and includes long stretches of cycle paths.
On sunny days, Belluno glitters from the heights of the hills that overlook the Piave river. The city’s layout recalls its ancient Roman origins and subsequent medieval development, while the architecture of the historic centre is a wonderful blend of Venetian and Alpine influences. After a mandatory tour of the squares and narrow streets of the historic centre, you come to the railway station where the cycle tour begins.
At the city gates the landscape immediately becomes rural, the villages of Salce and Villago of particular interest. On the right bank of the Piave we will come to the villages of Sedico and then Santa Giustina. There are plenty of places of cultural interest, such as the ancient mill of Santa Libera, and opportunities to sample the local cuisine. In Busche di Cesiomaggiore you can purchase typical products from a land that is noted for its agricultural biodiversity. The next stop is Feltre, a town rich in history and architectural beauty. The historic centre, enclosed by the medieval walls, is packed with important residences, churches and art museums.
You will return to Belluno on the other side of the valley, at the foot of the Prealps, in a well-preserved rural setting. Nature lovers won't want to miss the chance to visit the Vincheto di Celarda Reserve. Pedalling through the gentle rolling hills, we will come to the historic centres of Lentiai, Mel (included among the "Borghi più belli d’Italia" - the 'Most Beautiful Villages of Italy' - since 2018), Trichiana and Limana. Passing near the villa once inhabited by Dino Buzzati is a reminder that we have almost arrived in Belluno, which is entered from the south by crossing the ancient river port on the Piave.
The route, marked with bicycle tourism signage, includes long stretches of paved cycle paths and dedicated lanes. The length of the route and the places of interest along it make it ideal for a two-day tour; alternatively, for a one-day tour you could consider shortening it by using the two bridges over the Piave or the intermodal services provided by the railway line which is served by as many as five stations. There are also plenty of bicycle tourism detours if you want to plan a longer cycling holiday.
