There’s a certain magic in leaving the humid plains behind and watching the thermometer drop as the road begins to tilt upwards. This weekend, I pointed the front tire toward the Vallarsa, a valley that feels like a corridor between the Venetian Prealps and the Trentino peaks. If you’re looking for a ride that combines technical curves, breathtaking vistas, and a deep dive into history, this is it.
The journey kicks off with the steady climb toward Passo Pian delle Fugazze (1.163 m). The asphalt here is a dream for any rider—predictable, grippy, and flanked by the imposing mass of the Pasubio. But the real treat lies just beyond. After crossing into Trentino, we took the turn-off for Monte Zugna. The road narrowness is compensated by the lack of traffic and the increasingly spectacular views over the Adige Valley.
A Taste of Tradition#
By the time we reached Rifugio Monte Zugna, the mountain air had definitely worked up an appetite. Let me tell you, this place is a gem. Forget the overly polished “tourist menus”—here, it’s all about genuine, traditional flavors. We tucked into a plate of stewed rabbit with polenta that was, quite frankly, life-changing. It’s the kind of food that tastes like home, slow-cooked to perfection and served with that authentic mountain hospitality that makes you want to stay for another coffee (or two).
Walking Through the Peace Park#
Don’t just park the bike and eat, though. From the refuge, there’s a relatively easy 1.2 km path (perfect for a leg-stretch after some time in the saddle) that leads to the “Parco della Pace” (Peace Park). It’s a place that demands a moment of silence. You’re walking through a landscape scarred by the First World War, where Austro-Hungarian fortifications were eventually taken by Italian forces. Seeing the trenches and the remains of the forts against such a peaceful, panoramic backdrop is a powerful reminder of the history etched into these mountains.
Rider’s Tip#
The road up to Monte Zugna is narrow and can be dusty in sections. Keep your eyes peeled for hikers and cyclists, especially on the tighter hairpins. Also, even in May or June, the temperature at the top can be significantly lower than in the valley—layering is your best friend!
Keep the rubber side down!