Across the Alps – The Best Ride There Is 45 - SPTSM25069

Before the engines started, we kicked things off with our welcome briefing – and were lucky enough to be greeted with some delicious cake to sweeten the start. With everyone gathered, we introduced the group, presented the tour details, and gave a little preview of what’s to come. Not only did we talk about the fantastic riding ahead, but also about our visit to the BMW Motorrad Days in Garmisch tomorrow. Around 40,000 motorcycle enthusiasts will be there – and among them, of course, us. After the briefing, we rounded off the evening with a relaxed barbecue buffet, the perfect way to get to know each other before hitting the road together.
After a relaxed morning and a late breakfast in Seefeld, we kicked off our tour in style. Around midday, we boarded the train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen for the legendary BMW Motorrad Days. The atmosphere was already buzzing as we arrived – stunt riders tearing it up in the arena, exhibitors showing off the latest bikes and gear, and a sea of motorcycle fans from all over the world. Everyone took their time to explore, walk around, soak in the vibe, and chat with fellow bikers. It was a chilled and cheerful start – just the right energy to ease into the adventure. In the evening, things really took off: the gala dinner was everything we hoped for and more. Great food, classic Bavarian “Bierzelts” atmosphere, and a live band that absolutely nailed it with sing-along rock hits. It was one of those nights where you instantly feel part of something bigger – laughing, clinking glasses, and sharing stories. A fantastic kickoff for our journey, and now we're more than ready – and seriously excited – to hit the road on our bikes tomorrow!
Today’s ride took us from Seefeld to the legendary Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road, one of the most stunning crossings of the Alps. Just below the summit, we stopped at the Motorcycle Museum – and it’s not just any museum. In January 2021, a devastating fire destroyed the entire original collection. Against all odds, the owners rebuilt it within the same year, and today it shines more impressively than ever with over 450 historic motorcycles and rare cars. It’s a true symbol of passion and perseverance. After a hearty lunch at the restaurant next door, the weather turned. A steady rain set in as we tackled the final climb to the summit – but honestly, it just added to the drama. The misty roads, waterfalls, and shifting clouds made it a real alpine adventure, one we’ll remember even more than if the sun had been shining! After descending into Italy, we took on the Jaufenpass, where we stopped for a well-earned coffee break. The curves were brilliant, the views impressive despite the weather. From there, we continued to Wolkenstein in Val Gardena, where luxury awaited us at the Savoy Dolomites Hotel. Five courses of fine dining later, we’re more than satisfied and ready to rest. Tomorrow’s our official “rest day” – but with a ride through the Dolomites planned, it’s safe to say the adventure continues.
The first group – today just two riders, but full of energy – kicked off the day with a focused riding technique session on a private asphalt area. But this wasn’t just drills – it was hands-on motorcycling: practicing smooth cornering, confident braking, and proper vision technique. All the skills you want at your fingertips before hitting the majestic mountain roads. Then it was time to ride: Sella Pass, Pordoi Pass, and another scenic twist before reaching the breathtaking Passo Gardena. This is where the Dolomites truly shine – not just for their endless bends, but for the epic views of the Sella massif, rising like a fortress from the earth. Riding around those towering walls of stone is nothing short of magical. A perfect mix of precision and pure mountain joy.
What a day! Today we conquered seven mountain passes in the heart of the Dolomites – each one offering thrilling curves, stunning views, and a new reason to love riding. Our first big stop was at the Lago di Fedaia, just beneath the Passo Fedaia and the massive Marmolada glacier. The lake’s color was a surreal shade of turquoise, especially striking under the morning clouds. We stopped for coffee and enjoyed the incredible view – no wonder this place was featured in the 2003 remake of The Italian Job. It’s pure cinematic Dolomite magic! Of course, we didn’t miss the chance for a proper group photo with that epic backdrop. We continued our loop around the Gruppo della Marmolada, with winding roads and quiet stretches perfect for riding. Next highlight: the stunning Karersee (Lago di Carezza). With its deep green water reflecting the surrounding peaks, it’s one of the most photogenic lakes in the Alps. Unfortunately, parking was almost impossible – the whole area was packed – but we managed a quick look before heading off for a well-deserved lunch nearby. Afterwards, more mountain joy and then a smooth ride back to Wolkenstein, full of smiles and stories. A fantastic day packed with Dolomite dreams and motorbike fun!
Our motorcycle group kicked off the day in Wolkenstein and set out on a breathtaking ride through the Dolomites and several Alpine passes. The route took us past Bolzano, over the Mendel Pass, and onward to Passo Tonale. The weather was unpredictable – shifting rapidly between sunshine, drizzle, and clouds. At Passo Tonale, we encountered a one-hour road closure due to a cycling race. Luckily, we stumbled upon a small diner attached to a gas station where we had unexpectedly excellent toast and sandwiches – a surprise highlight for lunch. The true standout of the tour, however, was Passo Gavia. Known for its narrow, exposed mountain road, it delivered both adrenaline and awe-inspiring alpine views. Every twist and turn felt like an adventure. To top it all off, the final leg over Passo Foscagno brought the ride to a thrilling close. A journey none of us will soon forget!
Even on our rest day, we couldn’t resist a good loop – and what a ride it was! We left Livigno under clear skies and rode up the Bernina Pass in mild morning temperatures. The scenery was stunning, the riding smooth, and right on cue, we spotted the legendary Bernina Express train winding its way along the tracks – the highest railway crossing the Alps. In St. Moritz, we stopped for a quick photo at the iconic Grand Tour frame, with lake views and alpine glamour in the background. But things took a chilly turn: as we climbed the Albula Pass, we hit 2°C and snowfall – dramatic and unforgettable. Warming up over lunch in Davos, we recharged before heading back over the Flüela Pass. While the snow had stopped, the surrounding meadows were still dusted white, adding a magical contrast to the ride. Back in Livigno, we passed through the tunnel and still had time for a massage, a bit of spa time, or simply a relaxing stroll through town. The day ended with a well-deserved dinner at a fantastic local pizzeria – the perfect balance of alpine adventure and Italian hospitality.
We kicked off the day under clear blue skies, riding out of Livigno through the tunnel and straight into Switzerland, where the Ofen Pass welcomed us with crisp mountain air and glowing sunshine. Despite the name (“oven pass”), it was anything but hot – just perfect riding weather. Of course, we stopped for photos at the top before heading into Glurns, a charming tiny town surrounded entirely by medieval city walls – one of the smallest cities in South Tyrol. Soon after, we reached the stunning Reschen Lake, with the iconic sunken church tower rising from the water – a haunting and picturesque reminder of the past. After crossing the Reschen Pass, we got held up briefly at some roadworks – but that turned into a highlight of its own: two of our riders spotted a climbing rope hanging from the cliff, and couldn’t resist the fun – they climbed up for a photo op that looked like a proper alpine adventure! After that bit of action, we rode on to the incredible Gacher Blick, where we enjoyed lunch on the sunny terrace with breathtaking views – definitely the coolest lunch stop of the tour. Back in Mösern, a cold boot beer was waiting to welcome us home, and then the celebrations began: the 45th Edelweiss anniversary party kicked off with music, stories, and a whole lot of alpine joy.
Heute stand unsere Rasttagsrunde auf dem Programm – aber wer denkt, das wäre ein Ruhetag im klassischen Sinne, der kennt unsere Gruppe noch nicht. Es ging los aus Mösern, begleitet von neugierigen Kühen und Pferden, die uns am Straßenrand begrüßten. Unser erster Pass war das wunderschöne Kühtai, wo wir uns in der urigsten Dorfkneipe der Alpen einen Kaffee gönnten. Danach führte die Route über den Brennerpass zum Jaufenpass – kurvig, sportlich und einfach ein Traum für alle, die gerne richtig fahren. Und dann kam die Überraschung: ein liebevoll zubereitetes Edelweiss-Picknick, mitten in der Natur, von unseren Tourguides – wie immer ein Highlight! Gut gestärkt machten wir uns an den letzten großen Anstieg des Tages: das Timmelsjoch, mit weiteren Fotostopps und einem letzten Kaffee, bevor der Himmel die Schleusen öffnete – aber da waren wir schon fast wieder im Hotel. Timing: perfekt! Dort wartete schon das traditionelle Bootbeer auf uns. Doch der Tag war noch lange nicht vorbei: Am Abend ging es mit der Standseilbahn hinauf zur Rossalm, wo ein echter Tiroler Abend auf uns wartete. Es gab leckeres Essen, Schuhplattler-Einlagen vom Mieminger Trachtenverein und eine grandiose Stimmung. Danach ging’s wieder gemütlich mit der Bahn ins Tal zurück – ein unvergesslicher Abschluss eines besonderen Tages.
On the last day of our extended motorcycle trip, we set off from Mösern in the morning under perfect weather conditions. Our route took us over the scenic Fernpass, through the tranquil Namlostal, and up the twisty Hahntennjoch road – a dream for every motorbike enthusiast. The group enjoyed smooth riding, stunning alpine views, and the camaraderie of a shared passion. We made sure to include some well-deserved breaks: a relaxing coffee stop at the cozy Café Jamdo, followed by a delicious lunch at Pizzeria Romantika. Recharged and satisfied, we completed the final leg back to Mösern. It was a perfect ending to a memorable journey through the mountains – a day that truly celebrated the spirit of the ride.