The route is fully signposted as a long-distance cycle route and is largely on cycle paths or small side roads with almost no traffic. Only the crossing of the Fern Pass in Germany and the crossing of the Finstermünztal valley below Nauders force cyclists onto a main road. However, both climbs can be easily bridged with the Postbus.
In the summer months, cyclists are provided with their own trailer. In Italy, too, the cycle path from Trento to Feltre through the Brenta Valley is largely complete. The tour we described from Mittenwald to Lake Garda deviates slightly from this classic route.
Internet information:
http://www.viaclaudia.org The official website of the historic route. Here you will find a wealth of information and practical links directly on the subject.
http://www.esterbauer.com The most important information extracts from the "Via Claudia" cycle guide are also available on the Internet. Highly recommended.
Which bike?
Only a modern trekking bike with sufficient gearing and the best brakes will feel at home on a crossing of the Alps. In order to avoid the traffic, the cycle path also sometimes switches to unpaved gravel tracks. Tyres with a softer profile provide significantly more grip. Bikes with a 24- or better 27-speed gear system with gear reduction are a must. Bikes with hub gears or coaster brakes are not recommended. Important for all mountain rides: the lighter the bike and the luggage you are carrying, the more enjoyable the ride will be.
Best time to travel
May to October.
Tour operator
We accompanied the Munich-based organiser Alpsbiketours from Mittenwald to Lake Garda. Up to 800 metres in altitude and 80 km have to be covered on the daily stages. The guided stage tour including 7 nights/board in upscale hotels, final dinner, luggage transfer and return transport by coach costs from 930 euros. Information from Alps Munich, tel. 089/5427880, http://www.go-alps.de
Cycling travel guide
The Bikeline guide "Via Claudia Augusta" published by Esterbauer offers top information and clear descriptions of the classic route. 12.90 euros, http://www.esterbauer.com Only the German section from Donauwörth to the Austrian border is the focus of the Bavarian culture and hiking guide "Radwandern auf den Spuren der Via Claudia Augusta", Eos-Verlag, 9.80 euros.
Overnight stay
The number and choice of accommodation along the Via Claudia is almost unlimited. Even in the high season, there is always a hotel or guesthouse to be found. However, pre-booking for just one night is often problematic. The landlords prefer weekly guests. Cyclists are well advised to make a note of the telephone numbers of all tourist organisations before setting off. The above-mentioned web addresses provide assistance. Specialised bike hotels are also a good tip. Addresses on the Internet at http://www.bike-holidays.com
Return transfer service
Bike & Bus is the name of a EuroShuttle that offers easy return transport for all cycle tourists who want to organise their own crossing of the Alps. Every Saturday, the coach with a special bike trailer stops in Rovereto/Lake Garda and travels directly back to Munich. One-way fare: 42 euros. For information call 05473/92290, http://www.natours.de
