Day One (Saturday) - Arrive in Mestre

Check into your hotel in Mestre then hop onto a nearby bus for the 15 minute ride to Piazzalle Roma where you can hop onto a vaporetto and start to explore the extraordinarily unique city of Venice with a cruise down the Grand Canal.

Day Two (Sunday) Mestre/Venice to Chioggia

Start the day by riding across the Freedom Bridge to Venice, from where you take a ferry across to the famous Lido di Venezia. You may wish to interrupt your ride to the southern tip of the island with a halt to enjoy an ice cream and take in the view back across the lagoon to Venice or, perhaps, to go for a swim from the sandy beaches on the Adriatic shore. It's then time to hop onto another small ferry to take you across to the even narrower island of Pellestrina, which feels a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of nearby Venice. At the southern tip of Pellestrina, a Vaporetto takes you across the water to the heart of the interesting old fishing town of Chioggia, set on an island at the southern end of the lagoon. (Fares for two ferries & one vaporetto included).

(35km, 22 miles.)

Day Three (Monday) Chioggia to Rovigo

Cycling on quiet roads along canals and rivers, you pass through fertile fields, melon plantations and solitary villages on your way to your overnight stay in Rovigo . This is a charming and friendly little city of narrow alleyways, spacious piazzas and historic buildings.

(65km, 41 miles.)

Day Four (Tuesday) Rovigo to Vicenza

Today you let the train take the strain as you and your bike are transported to Monselice . You then cycle through olive groves and the rolling Euganese hills, stopping at Arquà Petrarca . This little town has maintained a medieval character over the centuries and took its name from the Italian scholar and poet Petrarch who is buried here. Continuing to follow little used roads, you skirt the edge of the beautiful Monti Berici which overlooks Vicenza . This historic city, with its many reminders of the 16c architect Palladio, is where you will stay for the next two nights. (Rail fare included).

(55km, 34 miles.)

Day Five (Wednesday) Vicenza

A day at rest in this lovely city, allowing you time to visit the striking Basilica Palladiana and the stunning Teatro Olimpico. Should you prefer, there is an optional cycle route through the beautiful, but challenging Berici Hills, taking in the water lilies at Lake Fimon on the way.

(0-35km, 0-22 miles.)

Day Six (Thursday) Vicenza to Abano Terme

Villa Rotonda, is just one of many splendid Venetian villas that may be admired as you make your way out of Vicenza. The route tracks close to the small River Bacchiglione as it winds its way south towards Abano Terme , the famous thermal spa. While away the afternoon relaxing in a thermal bath or swimming pool or taking advantage of one of the many spa treatments on offer.

(35km, 22 miles.)

Day Seven (Friday) Abano Terme to Mestre

Your final day's cycling takes you through the ancient university city and cultural centre of Padua. Onwards then to Mestre on a level route along canal side paths through pastures and fields and returning to your first hotel.

(50km, 31 miles.)

Day Eight (Saturday) Depart after breakfast

Depart after breakfast following a final night in Mestre

Extra nights can be booked in Mestre to allow more time to explore Venice. Alternatively, you can arrange your own accommodation in Venice if you prefer and simply drop off your bikes and pick up your luggage in Mestre.