nickrg3

Hey folks,

I know a few of you have done the trip down to Italy and I would appreciate some tips.

Which route have you taken to get down there and what where are the hotspots on the way? We would like awesome roads, beutiful scenery and smaller towns/villages versus larger cities.

I am a complete newbie to Italy. Frequently go to Milan on business but that is fly in - fly out see nothing so I am looking for any guidance you can offer.

We have 2 weeks to do the trip in.

Please tell me all you know

Any guidance is much appreciated

euan

Top tip.

Don't ask Rahul for any recommendations

nickrg3

Rahul's recommendations will be greatfully received





I'll just remember to take the fake plates with me

Welshman

When do you propose going since this has a bearing on which passes will be open.

nickrg3

july

MarkB

Stelvio Pass.

Sheer joy.

Also, if you're going that far down, the coastal roads below Naples (avoid Amalfi and just head South) are stunning, challenging and where the Italians go to holiday, so lots of good food at half the price of the tourist areas.

Welshman

OK all the passes should be open by July so you have a lot of options.

I'd drive down taking in the Vosges mountians, South East of Nancy and North of Belfort.

You've then got a choice whether to head into Switzerland via Basle or stay in France and take in the Rhone Alps - Chamonix and Southwards - and head into Italy through Aosta or one of the other access points.

Here are some sites for you to check out - they are biking sites but the road information is still good:

http://www.alpineroads.com/

http://www.bestbikingroads.com/index.php

http://www.motorbike-pals.com/index.html

Get hold of the Michelin maps - scale of about 1:250,000 - as these show the scenic routes edged in green.

nickrg3

very helpful, thanks a lot

keep em coming guys

Neil.H

Drive down France, take a left at the sea and then go over the mountains.

HTH

nickrg3

I have decided I want to go to Leichtenstein on the way

Dont ask me why - it sounds cool!