The route of the 24. Maxxis BIKE Transalp is brand new and almost too good to be covered at racing pace. We present the seven stages and their individual scenic highlights. Also for those who want to ride them without a race number. This time: stage 4 from St. Vigil to Kaltern.
Stage 4: from St. Vigil to Kaltern
- 109.44 kilometres
- 3090 vertical metres
- Journey time 8-9 hours
- Condition 5/5
- Driving technique 3/5
- Panorama 4/5
From the Dolomites to the vineyards of Kaltern - what would the BIKE Transalp be without the royal stage? Even for riders without a race number, this will be the longest day of the week. Not only in terms of kilometres, but also in terms of the climbs and pitfalls of the route.
Shortly after St. Vigil, the metres in altitude start to pile up towards the Würzjoch. Two climbs with a total of 1400 metres in altitude over the first 20 kilometres. The highest point of the day is reached at the 1982 metre high pass, but there is no sign of pure downhill fun down into the Villnöss Valley: although you lose 1300 metres in altitude over the next 30 kilometres, there are always counter-climbs in between. This costs nerves and strength.
Easy cranking, you might think - until the Ora strikes
But there is also entertainment in the form of frequent changes of surface and stunning views of the nearby walls of the Peitlerkofel and the Puez Geisler Nature Park. Once you finally reach the town sign of Außerried in the Eisack Valley after 60 kilometres, you complete the next 30 kilometres practically in fast motion: from here it's straight ahead along the Eisack, on a paved cycle path and always slightly downhill all the way to Bolzano.
Easy cranking with a chain on the right, you might think. But unfortunately, this only applies to those who reach this section in the morning. Because as all Lake Garda surfers know: From around 13:00, the Ora thermal wind blows towards you from the south - and the slight gradient can feel like a climb.
Without a ticking stopwatch in your ear, it's worth taking a detour from the cycle path into the historic centre of Bolzano. If only to top up your batteries with pasta, ice cream and cappuccino. Because shortly after the town, the route climbs from the bottom of the Eisack Valley up the western flank to reach Kaltern via the Montiggler lakes. That's another 400 metres in altitude, which hurts. But at least you can save yourself the final 250 metres in altitude to the Altenburg sports centre, where this year's stage finish arch will be located.
"We've never had such a change of scenery during a Transalp stage: from the rocky backdrop of the Dolomites to the vineyards of Kaltern - once across the whole of South Tyrol. A long but very varied day in the saddle." Marc Schneider, route manager of the BIKE Transalp
Registration
The 24th BIKE Transalp will take place from 3-9 July 2022 and costs the basic package including race management, luggage and bike service, stage catering, medical care and much more. 999 euros per person (U23 riders 749 euros). The beverage sponsor Bitburger will provide isotonic refreshment with a delicious 0.0% beer.. Info and registration: www.bike-transalp.de
Information on following the fourth Transalp stage
The stage location
Kaltern am See lies in the south of South Tyrol at the foot of the 2000 metre high Mendelkamm. The 1500 metre high Mendel Pass has made a name for itself among racing cyclists. Mountain bikers especially love Monte Roen because its 2116 metre high summit cross can be reached by bike and you can experience a 360-degree panorama from up there. Despite the alpine heights, the earthy trails around Kaltern tend to be gentle and flowing - which is great for beginners. The most popular time to visit is autumn, when the many wine cellars invite you to enjoy a Törggelen. However, this is also the time with the most hikers.
Cable car
On the fourth stage from San Vigilio di Marebbe to Caldaro, there is no practical cable car that could be used to shorten the original race route. Alternatively, you could split this long stage into two days. Ideally with an overnight stay in the Villnöss Valley, before the confluence with the Eisack Valley. This way you can even start the long cycle route section along the river in the morning with a thermal tailwind!
Refreshment tips
130 metres above the Würzjoch lies the cosy Ütia de Börz hut (2006 m) with a super view of the Peitlerkofel and excellent cuisine. Overnight stays are also possible here. www.boerz.it
Villnöss Valley: The route runs through the entire valley, passing various South Tyrolean refreshment stops and accommodation options with views of the Puez Geisler Nature Park. www.villnoess.com
Accommodation Kaltern
The finish of the BIKE Transalp will take place in Kaltern am See on 6 July. On this day, all accommodation will be booked. The search for accommodation will also be difficult in autumn, after the grape harvest (Törggelen time). Otherwise, there are various accommodation options in and around Kaltern, from guesthouse rooms by the lake to castle rooms on the hillside. www.kaltern.com
In the next part: Stage 5 - from Kaltern to San Martino. The GPS data for the entire Transalp route will be available to download from 4 July 2022.
Gitta Beimfohr
Editor
