Trails are the name of the game. Alpine crossings with a lot of single track are becoming increasingly popular. No wonder, as new official routes are constantly opening in the Alps and investments are being made in the infrastructure.

Crossing the Alps on a mountain bike is a challenge, especially from Füssen to Lake Garda. But that's exactly what makes a Transalp so great. That's why I'm presenting you this classic route in this Collection.

The Tour begins at the spectacular Neuschwanstein Castle and continues to Imst and Pfunds in Tyrol, Laatsch and Bolzano in South Tyrol, Andalo in Trentino, and finally to Torbole on Lake Garda. And as I said, this Collection is all about one thing: trails, trails, trails.

A brief explanation: trails in European bike parks are usually rated in the same way as ski slopes. They range from blue (easy) to red (medium) and black (difficult). For natural routes, the S scale is used, ranging from S0 (paved road or forest trail) to S5 (extremely blocky terrain).

If your legs give up or the weather turns, you often have an alternative or bypass on this route, as well as the option to take a shuttle or ride the gondola.

Every day is a challenge as there are enduro-type descents which can be demanding. However, they rarely go beyond the S2 category. Then, there’s the elevation. You have to climb around 1,800 metres (5,900 ft) a day and, on stage 2, you have 2,000 metres (6,560 ft) to tackle. So, it’s exhausting, but it’s also very rewarding. The views are spectacular and you can enjoy the landscape in a completely new way.

You need to be well trained for this Tranalp and have the necessary stamina. An e-bike can also be helpful here to make the mountain stages a little easier. But, it’s still no substitute for the necessary fitness.

As already mentioned, I’ve designed the route in such a way that you ride down the mountains on boring forest highways as little as possible: from the Blindsee trail in Tyrol overlooking the Zugspitze to the Paganella bike park in Trentino. The trails are varied and the crossing is a unique experience. You can be really proud of yourself when you reach Lake Garda.

If you want to ride your MTB or trekking bike from Füssen to Lake Garda, but this adventure is too tough for you, then take a look at this Collection, which is well suited to beginners: komoot.com/collection/294