Why Visit Veneto?

A Place where Cycling, Culture, and Cuisine Collide

“I was living in that little town… just below the mountains, a town that smelled of grapes and war.”

Ernest Hemmingway about Bassano del Grappa

Welcome to Veneto, a region where life’s simple pleasures blend seamlessly—cycling, food, wine, and history. Tucked away in the northeast of Italy, Veneto offers a wealth of pleasures. Yes, you’ve probably heard of Venice, Verona, and Treviso—those timeless postcard cities that conjure up romantic visions of canals, ancient amphitheatres, and Renaissance charm. But it’s beyond these famous spots, on the quieter roads and among the locals, that Veneto truly reveals its soul.

At the heart of it all is Bassano del Grappa, the city we call home, a place that’s quickly becoming the name on every cyclist’s lips. Dubbed “the next Girona,” Bassano is a delightful blend of history, charm, and—of course—world-class cycling. Whether you’re strolling across the iconic ‘Ponte Vecchio’ (old bridge) or exploring its elegant piazzas, you’ll find a town that breathes cycling from every corner. And yet, for now, it’s still relatively undiscovered. So, if you’re the sort who likes to get in ahead of the crowds, this is your moment.

The landscape

There’s a reason why Veneto’s landscape is revered among cyclists. Here, you’ll find gentle plains that give way to vineyards, olive groves, and then, in a grand crescendo, the soaring Dolomites. Every turn in the road offers something new, whether it’s a tranquil village, a stretch of road winding through open fields, or a lung-busting climb that rewards you with jaw-dropping vistas. Veneto has it all—from scenic, leisurely rides to high-octane, adrenaline-pumping ascents. Whatever your pace, you’ll find your rhythm here.

Food & Wine: The Taste of Veneto

After a good ride, there’s nothing quite like sitting down to a hearty meal—and in Veneto, you’re spoiled for choice. Famous for its world-class wines, like Prosecco, Valpolicella, and Soave—you’ll find no shortage of opportunities to raise a glass. Bassano del Grappa is the home of the world-famous “grappa”, the potent local spirit that warms the heart (and the legs!). The food? Rustic, seasonal, and delicious. Whether it’s a creamy mushroom risotto, fresh seafood straight from the coast, or a simple dish of bigoli pasta, Veneto’s cuisine reflects its land: rustic, hearty, and unforgettable.

A rich history

Veneto’s history reads like the pages of a well-worn epic. From the days of the Venetian Republic, through Napoleon’s campaigns, and right up to the First and Second World Wars, this land has always been a pivotal player. Ride through these hills, and you might stumble across one of the many British bunkers or find yourself cycling along routes once taken by soldiers from your city over 100 years ago. The region’s heritage gives every ride a sense of purpose and meaning—you’re not just cycling here; you’re pedalling through history.

Cycling Heaven

For those of us who see the world best from a saddle, Veneto is a cyclist’s paradise. From the rolling Prosecco and volcanic wine hills to the rugged peaks of the Dolomites, its smooth, car-free roads are unmatched. It’s no wonder that this region has birthed some of the biggest names in cycling: Castelli, Campagnolo, Basso, Pinarello, Willier, Selle Italia, Sidi, Fizik, Fulcrum… I could go on —the pedigree is undeniable. The Giro d’Italia has made countless passes through Veneto, and you’ll follow in the tracks of legends as you conquer the same iconic climbs and descents.

Bassano Club House: A Cyclist's Sanctuary

At the heart of Veneto’s cycling community is the Bassano Club House, Basso Bike’s new cycling hub that welcomes international cyclists. It’s more than just a place to stay—it’s a community of passionate riders. Whether you’re joining social rides with industry leaders, sipping an espresso in their villa gardens, or cooling off with a post-ride beer, BCH embodies the spirit of cycling in Bassano. Stay in their charming villa hotel, meet like-minded enthusiasts, and discover why this town is becoming a must-visit for cyclists.

A True Cycling Culture

Cycling isn’t just a sport here—it’s woven into the fabric of life. On any morning, you’ll see locals rolling out for their daily rides, often with a nod and a wave to passers-by. It’s a ritual, a tradition, and for visitors, it’s infectious. Whether you’re chasing personal bests on the climbs or meandering through quiet villages, you’ll find yourself quickly embraced by this unique cycling culture. Here in Veneto, we don’t just ride for the thrill—we ride to connect with the landscape, the people, and the traditions that make this region so special.

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