How Belvedere Became Italy’s Ultimate Escape for Active Travelers with Marina Pasquini
The Ultimate Italian Bike & Wellness Vacation: My Unforgettable Experience at Hotel Belvedere, Riccione
By Dr. Rob Beck, Host of Interesting MD
As a physician, I know how vital it is to find moments of balance, adventure, and connection that rejuvenate and prevent burnout. Cycling and travel have become my outlets for both health and happiness, and on a recent episode of the Interesting MD Podcast, I had an experience so exceptional I just had to put it into words. If you’re a doctor—or anyone, really—craving the perfect combination of fitness, relaxation, and Italian hospitality, allow me to introduce you to Hotel Belvedere in Riccione, Italy.
How I Discovered a Doctor-Friendly Italian Cycling Paradise
I recently visited Hotel Belvedere with a fantastic group of physicians mostly from Vancouver and Vancouver Island. What makes this place so unique isn’t just the incredible cycling (though seriously, the rides are world-class)—it’s the story, the vision behind it, and the warmth of its owner, Marina Pasquini. From our first conversation, I knew this was no ordinary cycling retreat.
Marina started managing the hotel at just 19, transforming it from a modest three-star establishment into one of Riccione's premier destinations for cycling, wellness, and family fun. Her devotion to making guests feel loved and at home is legendary. You’ll find her fingerprints on every detail, from the fresh Italian cuisine to thoughtfully organized group rides for every ability.
World-Class Cycling for All Levels
Let’s tackle the big question for cyclists: What are the rides like? In a word—unforgettable.
Options for Everyone: Whether you’re new to cycling or crave the challenge of technical climbs and speedy descents, Hotel Belvedere has a tour for you. Rides are categorized as Leisure (about 40km on e-bikes), Panorama (40-60km, more elevation), Explorer (80-90km for intermediate/advanced), and epic Road Tours (100-130km) for the truly ambitious.
Exceptional Guides: The hotel employs 14 multilingual guides, many of them passionate locals who can share the hidden gems of the region. Some are even former guests-turned-guides!
Top-Tier Equipment: Don’t want to lug your bike through an airport? No problem. Belvedere boasts a fleet of Bianchi and DeRosa bikes, e-bikes, and all necessary gear—just bring your shoes, pedals, and kit (or buy the exclusive Belvedere cycling jersey designed by Marina herself).
As someone who has done his fair share of destination rides, these routes stand out for their beauty and support. My favorite moments were those scenic pit stops—meeting the group at Marina’s historic country house for a barbecue, or savoring local wine and food at the Moretti farm.
More Than Just Cycling: Wellness, Family, and Italian Hospitality
You might think this is just a cycling hotel. Think again! Marina’s vision extends to every aspect of well-being.
Wellness & Spa: After a big day in the saddle, unwind in the spa with a bio sauna, steam bath, yacuzzi, salt water float, and massage treatments. There’s even an “emotional shower” and recovery ice bath.
Incredible Food: After burning thousands of calories on the bike, you’ll appreciate Belvedere’s authentic Italian buffet—no bland hotel food here. Everything is fresh, local, and delicious, from handmade pasta to aperitivo under the stars. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and lactose-free options make it inclusive for all.
Active Afternoons: Not a cyclist, or need a rest day? Enjoy yoga, cocktail lessons, Italian classes, cooking demonstrations, or just lounge by the pool or sea. The hotel’s schedule is packed with enriching activities that make every day exciting.
Fun for the Whole Family: Hotel Belvedere is also a top choice for families. Special kids’ programs, guided excursions, and even day trips to Rimini, Bologna, or Ravenna mean there’s plenty to keep every family member engaged. They’ll even watch your kids in the morning so you can fully enjoy your cycle.
Why Doctors (and Anyone Who Needs a Recharge) Should Go
After a few days at Hotel Belvedere, something became clear: this is the ultimate getaway for healthcare professionals and anyone looking for a reset. It’s a place where you push your limits on the bike, indulge in gourmet Italian cuisine, soak in the spa, and connect with passionate, like-minded people.
Maybe you’re a cyclist, maybe you’re not. Maybe you want adventure, or maybe a spa day with beach views. Either way, Belvedere is a place you’ll want to return to again and again—just as so many of their guests (and tour guides!) do.
Ready to Experience It Yourself?
You can find out more by checking out Hotel Belvedere Riccione on TripAdvisor or Googling “Italian bike hotel” (it will definitely top your search results!). Or follow Marina and her team on Instagram at Belvedere Bike Hotel Riccione.
If you have any questions, want help planning your own adventure, or have another hobby you want to share with the Interesting MD community, reach out to me at rob@interestingmd.com or DM me on social @InterestingMD.
Trust me—you’ll bike further, eat better, and laugh harder than you ever thought possible.
See you on the road (or spa bench) in Riccione!
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