Ten days to Venice
Ten Days to Venice: An IMRG European Adventure
Nine IMRG riders set off on a ten-day European run: Steve, Teena, Dom, Natacha, Nigel, Chris, Tony, Ben, and Scottie. It was a great mix of long motorway slogs, Alpine passes, rally chaos, Italian lakes, and a few well-earned days with the bikes parked up while Venice did its thing.
Day 1 — Calais to Dijon
Le Shuttle crossing at Calais and straight into the French autoroutes. A solid five-hour blast down to Dijon. Fast, focused riding with fuel stops, coffee breaks, and the first proper evening of shared stories over dinner.
Day 2 — Dijon to Courchevel via Annecy
Leaving Burgundy behind, the Alps started to rise. The roads around Lake Annecy were a welcome change of pace after the motorway miles, before the climb up into Courchevel for the Punta Bagna Rally.
Days 3–4 — Punta Bagna Rally, Courchevel
Two nights at the rally gave everyone time to soak up the atmosphere — bikes everywhere, mountain roads, fellow riders, and proper Alpine hospitality. A chance to slow down a bit, enjoy a few too many beers vinos and green s..t, catch up with the Indian Motorcycle crowd who made us extremely welcome suppling free drinks, food and requesting three of the groups bikes take centre stage on the Indian stand!.
Day 5 — Courchevel to Lake Como via the Saint Bernard Pass
Back on the road and straight into a highlight. The Saint Bernard Pass delivered everything: sweeping bends, big peaks, crisp mountain air, and that brilliant feeling of rolling from France into Italy. The group even left a subtle mark with Foundry badges at the top. The day ended at a great hotel near Lake Como, with an evening of karaoke and Tony’s whisky-fuelled head-banger moments.
Day 6 — Lake Como to Venice via Lake Garda
A stunning ride along Lake Como, then east past Lake Garda and on to Venice. Once the bikes were safely tucked away in a secure art deco hotel (complete with antique lifts), riding gear was swapped for trainers and beachwear, and the Venice chapter began.
Days 7–8 — Venice, Murano, Burano and the Lido
Three nights based in Venice. The group explored canals, alleyways and piazzas, celebrated Ben’s birthday explored the lido on electric scooters and took trips out to Murano for glassmaking and the colourful island of Burano. Staying close to the Lido beach added a relaxed seaside feel to the city break.
Day 9 — Venice to Germany via the Dolomites and Reschen Pass
The ride home kicked off in style. Up into the Dolomites with endless views and incredible roads, then on through the Reschen Pass into Germany. A big, demanding, unforgettable mountain day. ending in an unforgettable night at the local Harley Davidson dinner and Scottie's debacle!
Day 10 — Germany to Reims, then Calais and the Eurotunnel
The final push west took the group through Germany and France to Reims, then on to Calais and the Eurotunnel. Ten days after setting off, the nine riders rolled home with tired tyres, full cameras, stronger friendships, and plenty of stories to keep the IMRG chat going long after the engines cooled.
