The 2010 Italian World Mountain Bike Orienteering Cup race http://www.mtboitaly2010.it was based in the town of Teolo in the Parco Colli Euganeo hills, approximately 70km south westish of Venice. The World MTBO Championships in 2011 http://www.mtbo2011.org/ is to be held just up the road in another range of low hills, Berici, and many riders have stayed on for a several days training in preparation for WOC following the World Cup event. This years races were held in the vineyard covered valleys between Teolo and Vo, a small town down in the valley.
The hills of Parco Colli Euganeo rise sharply to 450m from the level plane that runs from Venice right across to Milan, and are a road bike mecca. Teolo’s many cafes seem to be a popular stopping off point after a hard climb on the way to higher cols above. In fact, the cafes and restaurants of Teolo with their ice creams, coffees and pizzas tuned into a focal point for teams after the races, everybody enjoying the great atmosphere.
The steep sided hills with their vineyards and woods gave continual views as the roads and tracks wound their way upwards, every so often giving longer vistas over the surrounding plains towards the sea.
The organisers had a big challenge after being forced to replan the entire event following storms that brought down many trees and washed away tracks on the original areas. They also managed to secure some major sponsors http://www.mtboitaly2010.it/sponsor.php . As well as copious amounts of wine supplied to the top 10 at the prize givings there were also helmets, clothing and regional products.
With great walking and riding, lots of wine tasting opportunities and relaxing village squares, partnered with a trip to Venice, a visit to this national park would make a great weekend away.
