Shakedown Ride - Valley ride down to Tarvisio (Italy) to check out your bike's health and to acclimatise to our new surroundings

Welcome to the start of your epic cycling adventure! Day 2 kicks off with a 52km ride featuring 910m of elevation, setting the tone for the days ahead.

We roll out at a relaxed pace, allowing you to settle into the rhythm of the road and take in the breathtaking alpine scenery. The route gradually builds towards the highlight of the day – the Wurzenpass, a 4.2km climb with an average gradient of 5.8%. But don’t be fooled by the numbers – this climb has a brutal 20.1% max gradient waiting for you near the top!

As you push through the steep switchbacks, the support vehicle is always close, offering hydration and nutrition to keep you fueled. At the summit, take a moment to soak in the incredible mountain views before we enjoy a thrilling descent back into the valley.

The rest of the ride allows for a steady spin, perfect for loosening the legs and preparing for the bigger challenges ahead. Once back, unwind with a well-earned post-ride drink at 5 PM, share stories from the day, and get ready for an unforgettable cycling journey through the Alps and Dolomites.

🚴‍♂️ Distance: 52km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 910m
🔥 Wurzenpass Climb: 4.2km | 5.8% avg | 20.1% max gradient

Let the adventure begin! 🚵‍♂️🇦🇹

Day 3 is where the real climbing begins! This is an expert-level ride, covering 100km with 2,270m of elevation and featuring three iconic climbs across Slovenia, Italy, and Austria. Expect stunning scenery, lung-busting ascents, and exhilarating descents as we take on the Vršic Pass, Passo del Predil Predel, and Wurzenpass.

Climb 1: Vršic Pass (Cat 1)

11.7km | 7% avg | 13.2% max

We roll out from Kranjska Gora, and within the first kilometers, you’ll be tackling Slovenia’s most famous climb—the Vršic Pass. With hairpin switchbacks, cobblestone sections, and an elevation of 1,611m, this climb is a true Alpine classic. The 7% average gradient makes for a steady effort, but beware of the 13.2% max gradient—this one will test your legs early! At the summit, take in the panoramic views of the Julian Alps before a fast, twisting descent into Trenta Valley.

Climb 2: Passo del Predil Predel (Cat 2)

14.8km | 5.2% avg | 11.9% max

Crossing into Italy, the next challenge is the long and steady Passo del Predil Predel, climbing to 1,156m. This climb is more forgiving, with an average gradient of 5.2%, making it the perfect chance to settle into a rhythm. The final kilometers ramp up with sections touching 11.9%, keeping you honest before cresting the summit. From here, we descend towards Austria, passing stunning alpine lakes and postcard-perfect scenery.

Climb 3: Wurzenpass (Cat 3)

4.2km | 5.8% avg | 20.1% max

To cap off the day, we take on Wurzenpass—short but fierce. After 80+ kilometers in the legs, this 4.2km climb will feel longer than it looks. With a brutal 20.1% max gradient, this final ascent is a true leg-breaker, rewarding those who dig deep. A well-earned descent takes us back towards Kranjska Gora, where we finish the ride with a well-deserved recovery session and post-ride drinks at 5 PM.

Ride Summary:

🚴‍♂️ Distance: 100km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 2,270m
🔥 Vršic Pass (Cat 1): 11.7km | 7% avg | 13.2% max
🔥 Passo del Predil Predel (Cat 2): 14.8km | 5.2% avg | 11.9% max
🔥 Wurzenpass (Cat 3): 4.2km | 5.8% avg | 20.1% max

This is a true mountain challenge, demanding strength, endurance, and a passion for climbing. But with our support vehicle, stocked with hydration, nutrition, and mechanical assistance, you’ll have everything you need to conquer the day.

Time to embrace the challenge and ride like the pros! 🚵‍♂️⛰️

Day 4 is a true endurance challenge, featuring 132km of riding and 1,700m of elevation. This expert-level ridetakes us deep into the heart of Slovenia’s Julian Alps, culminating in the Pokljuka climb, a Cat 1 ascent known for its length, steady gradients, and stunning alpine scenery.

Climb: Pokljuka (Cat 1)

19km | 4.4% avg | 13.7% max

The day begins with rolling terrain, allowing us to warm up the legs before taking on the Pokljuka climb—a 19km ascent that is all about pacing and endurance. With an average gradient of 4.4%, this climb is manageable, but don’t be fooled—there are steeper pitches reaching 13.7% that will put your climbing legs to the test.

As we ascend, the road winds through dense alpine forests and remote pastures, offering a sense of isolation and tranquility rarely found on more famous climbs. The higher we climb, the more spectacular the views become, revealing a panoramic vista of the Julian Alps.

A Ride of Endurance & Reward

After summiting, we take on a fast, flowing descent, before looping back towards our base in Kranjska Gora. With long hours in the saddle, today’s ride is all about sustained effort, smart pacing, and enjoying the incredible surroundings.

Upon return, recovery is key—a well-earned post-ride drink at 5 PM, followed by a hearty meal, will prepare you for the even bigger challenges ahead.

Ride Summary:

🚴‍♂️ Distance: 132km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 1,700m
🔥 Pokljuka (Cat 1): 19km | 4.4% avg | 13.7% max

This ride demands endurance, smart climbing, and a love for long ascents. With full support from our vehicle, stocked with hydration, nutrition, and mechanical assistance, you’ll have everything you need to conquer Pokljuka in style.

Another epic day in the books—rest up, because the mountains keep getting bigger! 🚵‍♂️⛰️

Day 5 is a high-altitude adventure, packed with 85km of riding and 1,950m of elevation. This advanced-level ridefeatures a mix of steady climbing and brutal gradients, culminating in the stunning Mangart Saddle, one of the highest paved roads in Slovenia.

Climb 1: Passo del Predil Predel (Cat 3)

12.6km | 3.5% avg | 9.2% max

The day begins with a gentle introduction as we take on Passo del Predil Predel, a 12.6km climb with an average gradient of just 3.5%. While it offers a relatively steady ascent, sections of up to 9.2% keep the legs engaged. This climb is all about finding your rhythm, enjoying the stunning views of alpine lakes, and preparing for the main event of the day.

Climb 2: Mangart Saddle (HC)

10.9km | 9% avg | 18.8% max

Leaving the pass behind, we head toward the crown jewel of the ride—the Mangart Saddle, a Hors Catégorie (HC) climb that will push you to your limits. This 10.9km ascent climbs to 2,055m, making it one of the highest roads in the region. With an average gradient of 9% and sections maxing out at 18.8%, this is a true test of strength and endurance.

The climb winds through jaw-dropping switchbacks, tunnels carved into the rock, and breathtaking alpine landscapes. The final push to the summit is as brutal as it is rewarding—at the top, you’re greeted with unparalleled panoramic views of the Julian Alps, making every pedal stroke worth it.

After conquering Mangart, we enjoy a well-earned descent, letting the crisp mountain air cool us down as we roll back to base. A post-ride drink at 5 PM awaits, where we’ll reflect on an epic day in the mountains and prepare for the challenges still to come.

Ride Summary:

🚴‍♂️ Distance: 85km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 1,950m
🔥 Passo del Predil Predel (Cat 3): 12.6km | 3.5% avg | 9.2% max
🔥 Mangart Saddle (HC): 10.9km | 9% avg | 18.8% max

This ride is about pacing, grit, and taking in the spectacular landscapes. With full support from our vehicle, stocked with hydration, nutrition, and spare gear, you’ll have everything you need to tackle one of the most breathtaking climbs in Slovenia.

Are you ready for the challenge? 🚵‍♂️⛰

Day 6 is a transition day, as we depart Kranjska Gora and travel to our next base in Lienz/Dölsach, Austria. This gives riders a chance to rest, recover, and prepare for the second half of the tour.

However, for those eager to get in one last ride before we hit the road, we’re offering an optional challenge—a 118km expert-level ride featuring the Iselsberg Pass, a short but punchy climb that will keep the legs fired up before the transfer.

Climb: Iselsberg Pass (Cat 3)

3.7km | 7.2% avg | 10.2% max

While the Iselsberg Pass may only be 3.7km long, don’t underestimate it—it’s a proper leg tester. With an average gradient of 7.2% and a maximum pitch of 10.2%, this climb demands a consistent effort. Sitting at 1,204m, the summit rewards you with breathtaking views of the Austrian Alps before a sweeping descent back down.

For those taking on the ride, our support vehicle will be on hand, stocked with hydration, nutrition, and mechanical assistance to ensure you get the most out of your morning.

After the ride, we regroup, refuel, and begin our journey to Lienz/Dölsach, where our next set of handpicked accommodations awaits. This is the perfect chance to relax, unwind, and soak in the scenic beauty of Austriabefore tackling the next series of legendary climbs.

Ride Summary (Optional Ride):

🚴‍♂️ Distance: 118km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 1,220m
🔥 Iselsberg Pass (Cat 3): 3.7km | 7.2% avg | 10.2% max

This is an ideal ride for those looking to stay sharp while enjoying one last Alpine climb before the transfer. For those opting to rest, enjoy a leisurely morning, take in the stunning surroundings, and get ready for the incredible roads ahead in Lienz/Dölsach.

Onward to Austria! 🚵‍♂️⛰️

Welcome to one of the biggest and most demanding days of the tour! Today’s 132km ride comes with a massive 3,910m of elevation, taking on three legendary climbs in the Austrian Alps. The Grossglockner Edelweißspitze, Hochtor, and Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe make up a brutal trilogy of Hors Catégorie (HC) and Super HC climbs, ensuring this is a day that will test even the strongest riders.

This is a ride of pure endurance, strength, and mental fortitude—but the rewards are unparalleled, with jaw-dropping views, high-altitude summits, and the chance to ride one of Europe’s greatest cycling routes.

Climb 1: Grossglockner Edelweißspitze (Super HC)

26km | 6.6% avg | 31.1% max

The ride begins with one of the toughest ascents in the entire tour—the Super HC climb to Grossglockner Edelweißspitze. At 26km long and climbing to 2,538m, this is a relentless climb with an average gradient of 6.6%. However, the real challenge lies in its brutal max gradient of 31.1%, which will push your legs to their absolute limit.

The road twists through the breathtaking High Tauern National Park, with alpine meadows, dramatic rock faces, and panoramic vistas all around. As you reach the final stretch, the paved road turns into cobblestones, adding a classic, almost Tour de France-like feel to the climb. At the summit, the views are simply unmatched—this is one of the most awe-inspiring places you’ll ever ride.

Climb 2: Grossglockner Hochtor (HC)

17.6km | 9.2% avg | 12% max

After a short descent, we immediately take on the second monster of the day—Grossglockner Hochtor, another HC climb with 17.6km of unrelenting ascent to a summit of 2,523m. This climb is steeper than the first, with an average gradient of 9.2% and a max of 12%, making it an unforgiving but rewarding challenge.

The road to the Hochtor Tunnel is lined with sweeping alpine switchbacks, and as you near the top, the air grows thinner, adding an extra layer of difficulty to the effort. This is the kind of climb where pacing is everything—push too hard too early, and the final climb of the day will feel impossible.

Climb 3: Grossglockner Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe (HC)

17.3km | 7.1% avg | 18.6% max

With two legendary climbs already in the legs, we now take on the final ascent of the day—the HC climb to Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe. This 17.3km climb takes you up to 2,400m, with an average gradient of 7.1%, but with sections ramping up to a punishing 18.6%.

This is where mental toughness will come into play. The climb is long and relentless, but the views of Austria’s highest peak, the mighty Grossglockner (3,798m), are beyond spectacular. This iconic cycling route has been tackled by the world’s best riders, and now, you’re joining the elite group who have conquered it.

At the summit, you’ll be standing above the clouds, with the Pasterze Glacier below and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment as you complete one of the toughest riding days of your life.

Ride Summary:

🚴‍♂️ Distance: 132km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 3,910m
🔥 Grossglockner Edelweißspitze (Super HC): 26km | 6.6% avg | 31.1% max
🔥 Grossglockner Hochtor (HC): 17.6km | 9.2% avg | 12% max
🔥 Grossglockner Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe (HC): 17.3km | 7.1% avg | 18.6% max

A Ride for the History Books

This is a true test of endurance and climbing ability—one of the hardest and most rewarding rides of the entire tour. With every meter climbed, you’ll be riding through cycling history, taking on some of the most famous and revered ascents in Europe.

But don’t worry—you’re not in this alone. Our support vehicle will be fully stocked with hydration, nutrition, and mechanical assistance, ensuring you have everything you need to reach each summit.

After the ride, it’s time to relax, recover, and celebrate the day’s achievements with a well-earned drink at 5 PM. You’ve conquered one of the greatest climbing routes in the world—and it’s only going to get better from here!🚵‍♂️⛰️🔥

After the brutal challenges of Grossglockner, today’s ride may be shorter, but it is far from easy. At 73km with 1,340m of elevation, this advanced-level ride is all about quality over quantity. We’ll be heading into the Italian Dolomites to take on one of the most iconic and feared climbs in cycling history—the Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

This Cat 1 climb is short but savage, with relentless gradients and a brutally steep final stretch that will put every rider to the test.

Climb: Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Cat 1)

7.5km | 8.7% avg | 20% max

The ride begins with a gradual warm-up, giving the legs a chance to shake off the fatigue from the previous day’s Alpine marathon. We cruise through stunning Dolomite valleys, passing towering limestone peaks, alpine lakes, and charming Italian villages before reaching the base of the main climb.

Then, the real work begins.

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo climb is only 7.5km long, but with an average gradient of 8.7% and a max pitch of 20%, it demands everything you’ve got. The first few kilometers are manageable, but the final 4km are pure suffering, with unrelenting double-digit gradients that only get steeper.

The last kilometer is where leg strength and determination take over—the 20% ramps will have you grinding in your easiest gear, pushing towards the spectacular summit at 2,373m.

But once you reach the top, it’s all worth it—you’ll be greeted by one of the most breathtaking views in the Dolomites. The three jagged peaks of Tre Cime stand proudly above, a rewarding sight for those who endure the climb.

After catching our breath and taking in the views, we descend back down, enjoying sweeping turns and smooth roads as we return to our base in Lienz/Dölsach.

Ride Summary:

🚴‍♂️ Distance: 73km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 1,340m
🔥 Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Cat 1): 7.5km | 8.7% avg | 20% max

A Ride for the Legends

This historic climb has tested the world’s greatest riders, and now it’s your turn to take it on. With its brutal gradients and breathtaking scenery, Tre Cime di Lavaredo will push you to your limits, but the sense of achievement at the summit is second to none.

Our support vehicle will be on hand to keep you fueled and ready, ensuring you have the hydration, nutrition, and backup support needed to take on this Dolomites classic.

After the ride, we’ll unwind with a well-earned post-ride drink at 5 PM, reflecting on another epic day in the saddle.

Tomorrow, the Dolomite adventure continues! 🚵‍♂️⛰️🔥

After the brutal gradients of Tre Cime di Lavaredo, today’s ride offers a different kind of challenge—a longer 121km route with a rolling profile and two tough but rewarding climbs: Gailbergsattel and Kreuzberg. With 1,300m of elevation, this advanced-level ride is all about pacing, endurance, and enjoying the breathtaking Dolomites scenery.

Climb 1: Gailbergsattel (Cat 1)

6.7km | 5.4% avg | 10.1% max

Leaving our base in Lienz/Dölsach, we ease into the ride with flowing valley roads, letting the legs warm up before the first climb of the day: Gailbergsattel.

This Category 1 climb is 6.7km long, with an average gradient of 5.4%, making it a steady but challenging ascent. While the max pitch of 10.1% will force some effort, the climb is manageable, allowing you to find a strong rhythm.

At the summit (981m), take in the stunning views of the Alpine meadows, before we enjoy a smooth descent, leading into the valley roads that set up our next challenge.

Climb 2: Kreuzberg (Cat 2)

5.1km | 8.1% avg | 13% max

After a fast and rolling midsection, we approach Kreuzberg, a Category 2 climb that is shorter but steeper than the first ascent. With an average gradient of 8.1%, this 5.1km climb demands a punchy effort, and with the max gradient hitting 13%, you’ll need to dig deep in the final kilometers.

Reaching the summit (882m), take a moment to enjoy the Dolomites beauty before the final descent, which leads us into a flatter run-in to home base.

Ride Summary:

🚴‍♂️ Distance: 121km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 1,300m
🔥 Gailbergsattel (Cat 1): 6.7km | 5.4% avg | 10.1% max
🔥 Kreuzberg (Cat 2): 5.1km | 8.1% avg | 13% max

The Perfect Mid-Tour Ride

After several gruelling summit finishes, today’s ride is about strong pacing, controlled climbing, and enjoying the flow of the Dolomites. The two climbs are tough but not relentless, making this a perfect active recovery ride while still adding a solid day in the legs.

With full vehicle support, you’ll have plenty of hydration, nutrition, and mechanical assistance, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.

Back at base, we celebrate another big day with a well-earned 5 PM drink and prepare for the challenges ahead!🚵‍♂️🔥⛰️

Today is a transition day, as we leave Lienz/Dölsach behind and head to our new home in Corvara, nestled in the heart of the Dolomites. This stunning alpine village will be our base for the next incredible riding days.

For those who want to keep the legs turning before the transfer, we’re offering an expert-level ride featuring two beautiful and historically significant climbs—Passo Campolongo and Passo Valparola. Though the ride is just 51km, it packs in 1,370m of climbing, making for a challenging but rewarding pre-transfer ride.

Climb 1: Passo Campolongo (Cat 3)

6km | 5.8% avg | 10.1% max

We begin with a gentle roll-out before taking on Passo Campolongo, a 6km climb with a smooth and steady gradient of 5.8%. While the max pitch of 10.1% offers a bit of a sting, this climb is manageable and serves as a perfect warm-up for the bigger challenge ahead.

The road is perfectly surfaced, winding up through forested slopes and classic Dolomite rock faces, making for a truly scenic ascent. The summit (1,875m) is just a taste of what’s to come, offering panoramic views over the surrounding valleys.

Climb 2: Passo Valparola (Cat 1)

13.7km | 5.9% avg | 12.8% max

The second and main challenge of the day is the iconic Passo Valparola, a 13.7km Cat 1 climb that takes us to an altitude of 2,196m. While the average gradient of 5.9% allows for a consistent tempo, the final ramps at 12.8% will test even the strongest riders.

The climb unfolds across open, exposed terrain, giving way to stunning views of the Marmolada and Sella mountain ranges. As you near the historical summit, you’ll pass WWI fortifications, adding a sense of significance to the ride.

Reaching the top, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking Dolomites panoramas—a reward for the effort you’ve put in.

From here, we descend, regroup, and prepare for our transfer to Corvara, where we settle into our next luxurious mountain retreat.

Ride Summary (Optional Ride):

🚴‍♂️ Distance: 51km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 1,370m
🔥 Passo Campolongo (Cat 3): 6km | 5.8% avg | 10.1% max
🔥 Passo Valparola (Cat 1): 13.7km | 5.9% avg | 12.8% max

A Scenic Warm-Up for the Dolomites

Today’s ride is the perfect opportunity to stretch the legs before settling into Corvara. The gradual difficulty increase from Campolongo to Valparola makes for a balanced and rewarding effort, without the extreme intensity of previous days.

As always, our support vehicle will be nearby, offering hydration, nutrition, and assistance to keep you fresh before the next phase of this incredible cycling adventure.

Welcome to Corvara—where the Dolomites truly come alive! 🚵‍♂️🔥⛰️

Welcome to one of the most breathtaking and legendary loops in the Dolomites—the Sella Ronda. This expert-level ride takes us on a clockwise loop, tackling four of the most famous passes in cycling: Passo Campolongo, Passo Pordoi, Passo Sella, and Passo Gardena.

Though the ride is relatively short in distance, it is packed with intense climbing, hairpin descents, and panoramic mountain views that will leave you in awe. This is a ride steeped in cycling history, with roads that have been conquered by the greatest riders in the Giro d’Italia.

Climb 1: Passo Campolongo (Cat 3)

6km | 5.8% avg | 10.1% max

The day begins with Passo Campolongo, a familiar climb from yesterday’s ride. At 6km with a 5.8% gradient, it serves as the perfect warm-up, easing the legs into the rhythm of the Sella Ronda. The switchbacks are smooth, and the views of Corvara and the surrounding peaks set the stage for an epic day ahead.

Climb 2: Passo Pordoi (Cat 1)

9.2km | 6.9% avg | 8.9% max

Next up is Passo Pordoi, one of the most iconic climbs in the Dolomites. This 9.2km climb has a gentle but steady 6.9% average gradient, with relentless switchbacks leading to a summit at 2,239m.

The smooth asphalt and rhythmic hairpins make this one of the most enjoyable climbs of the tour. At the top, a monument to Fausto Coppi pays tribute to one of the greatest climbers of all time, reminding us of the rich cycling history embedded in these roads.

Climb 3: Passo Sella (Cat 2)

5.5km | 7.9% avg | 11% max

After a thrilling descent off Pordoi, we head straight into Passo Sella, a 5.5km climb that feels much steeper than it looks. The average gradient of 7.9% is deceptive, as several sharp ramps exceed 11%, making this a punchy and demanding ascent.

The scenery here is jaw-dropping, with the Sella massif towering above and offering one of the most photogenic backdrops of the tour. A brief stop at the summit lets us soak in the breathtaking views of the Marmolada Glacier before the descent begins.

Climb 4: Passo Gardena (Cat 2)

5.8km | 4.3% avg | 7.6% max

The final climb of the day, Passo Gardena, is a gentler ascent compared to what we’ve faced so far. At 5.8km with a 4.3% average gradient, it allows for a strong tempo effort to finish off the loop.

The climb rewards us with stunning views of the Sassolungo and the Val Gardena valley, before leading into a long, sweeping descent back toward Corvara, marking the end of an incredible day on the bike.

Ride Summary:

🚴‍♂️ Distance: ~55km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: ~1,700m
🔥 Passo Campolongo (Cat 3): 6km | 5.8% avg | 10.1% max
🔥 Passo Pordoi (Cat 1): 9.2km | 6.9% avg | 8.9% max
🔥 Passo Sella (Cat 2): 5.5km | 7.9% avg | 11% max
🔥 Passo Gardena (Cat 2): 5.8km | 4.3% avg | 7.6% max

An Unforgettable Ride Through Cycling’s Most Famous Roads

The Sella Ronda is more than just a loop—it’s a rite of passage for every cyclist. The combination of challenging climbs, breathtaking scenery, and perfectly maintained roads makes this one of the most enjoyable and rewarding days of the entire tour.

With full support from our team, including hydration, nutrition, and mechanical assistance, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy this Dolomite masterpiece to the fullest.

A ride for the soul, a day for the memory books—welcome to the Sella Ronda! 🚵‍♂️🔥⛰️

As we near the final days of this epic tour, Day 12 delivers a true Dolomites classic, featuring three legendary climbs: Passo Campolongo, Passo Giau, and Passo Valparola. This ride is a serious challenge, combining relentless gradients, stunning high-altitude roads, and world-class descents.

With steep ramps, stunning alpine scenery, and a total elevation gain that will test even the strongest riders, this is a day designed for those who love to climb.

Climb 1: Passo Campolongo (Cat 3)

6km | 5.8% avg | 10.1% max

We start the day with a familiar climb, the 6km ascent of Passo Campolongo, a steady and scenic warm-up before the bigger mountains ahead. At an average gradient of 5.8%, this climb is smooth and flowing, giving us a chance to find our rhythm.

Reaching the 1,875m summit, we descend quickly into Arabba, where the real challenge of the day begins.

Climb 2: Passo Giau (HC)

9.8km | 9.3% avg | 14% max

Now comes one of the toughest climbs in the Dolomites—Passo Giau, an Hors Catégorie (HC) beast that defines pure climbing difficulty.

At 9.8km in length, Giau may not seem intimidating at first, but with a brutal average gradient of 9.3% and maximum pitches reaching 14%, this climb never gives you a break.

There are no flat sections—just relentless switchbacks, steep inclines, and breathtaking views that make the suffering worthwhile. The 2,236m summit offers one of the most spectacular views in the entire Dolomites, making it an unforgettable moment in the ride.

Climb 3: Passo Valparola (Cat 1)

13.7km | 5.9% avg | 12.8% max

After a fast descent, we tackle the final challenge of the day—the long, steady grind up Passo Valparola.

At 13.7km in length, this Category 1 climb is not as steep as Giau, but with an average gradient of 5.9% and a final ramp hitting 12.8%, it will test tired legs. The exposed upper slopes offer incredible views, as the road winds past WWI fortifications and rugged Dolomites peaks.

At 2,196m, the summit marks the end of the day’s climbing, leaving just a thrilling descent back into Corvara to wrap up an unforgettable ride.

Ride Summary:

🚴‍♂️ Distance: ~75km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: ~2,300m
🔥 Passo Campolongo (Cat 3): 6km | 5.8% avg | 10.1% max
🔥 Passo Giau (HC): 9.8km | 9.3% avg | 14% max
🔥 Passo Valparola (Cat 1): 13.7km | 5.9% avg | 12.8% max

A True Climber’s Paradise

This ride is a true test of climbing ability, featuring one of the most brutal ascents of the entire tour (Passo Giau), followed by an epic finale on Passo Valparola. But for those who embrace the pain and glory of high-altitude cycling, this day is one of the most rewarding of the trip.

As always, our support vehicle will be on hand, providing hydration, nutrition, and assistance, ensuring you reach each summit ready to conquer the next.

A day of Dolomite mastery—ride strong and soak it all in! 🚵‍♂️🔥⛰️

As we enter the final stretch of this incredible tour, Day 13 delivers another unforgettable ride through the heart of the Dolomites. This expert-level route takes on four legendary climbs: Passo Gardena, Passo Sella, Passo Fedaia, and Passo Campolongo.

With long ascents, stunning scenery, and high-altitude riding, today’s ride is about one last push before the grand finale.

Climb 1: Passo Gardena (Cat 2)

5.8km | 4.3% avg | 7.6% max

We start the day with a smooth ascent up Passo Gardena, a gentle but scenic warm-up climb. At 5.8km in lengthwith an average gradient of 4.3%, this is a chance to find a rhythm and ease into the day.

As we reach the 2,136m summit, the views of the Dolomite peaks surrounding Val Gardena are simply breathtaking, offering a perfect backdrop for the day ahead.

Climb 2: Passo Sella (Cat 2)

5.5km | 7.9% avg | 11% max

Next, we take on the short but challenging Passo Sella, a 5.5km ascent with a steeper 7.9% average gradient. The tight switchbacks and incredible panoramas of the Sassolungo massif make this climb a must-ride in the Dolomites.

The final ramps touching 11% will test the legs, but the reward at the summit—a sweeping descent into the valley—makes it all worthwhile.

Climb 3: Passo Fedaia (HC)

14km | 7.5% avg | 18% max

Now comes the toughest climb of the day, the legendary Passo Fedaia, a climb that has shaped the Giro d'Italia’s greatest battles.

At 14km in length, this Hors Catégorie (HC) monster is relentless, with an average gradient of 7.5% and a final ramp hitting a brutal 18%. The climb is split into two sections—the first part is more gradual, but after the Malga Ciapela village, the road kicks up aggressively, with long, steep straight sections that demand pure power and mental resilience.

Reaching the 2,057m summit, we are greeted by the spectacular Lago di Fedaia, sitting beneath the towering Marmolada Glacier—an epic reward for an epic climb.

Climb 4: Passo Campolongo (Cat 3)

6km | 5.8% avg | 10.1% max

After an exhilarating descent, we take on Passo Campolongo for the third time on this tour, making it a familiar but satisfying way to finish the ride.

At 6km with a 5.8% gradient, this climb is short and steady, allowing for one final push before rolling back into Corvara.

Ride Summary:

🚴‍♂️ Distance: ~85km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: ~2,500m
🔥 Passo Gardena (Cat 2): 5.8km | 4.3% avg | 7.6% max
🔥 Passo Sella (Cat 2): 5.5km | 7.9% avg | 11% max
🔥 Passo Fedaia (HC): 14km | 7.5% avg | 18% max
🔥 Passo Campolongo (Cat 3): 6km | 5.8% avg | 10.1% max

One Last Push Before the Finale

Today’s ride is about embracing the climbs, soaking in the scenery, and pushing yourself to new heights. Passo Fedaia is the undisputed queen of the day, while Gardena, Sella, and Campolongo provide a perfect mix of endurance and speed.

With full support from our team, you’ll have hydration, nutrition, and mechanical assistance throughout the ride, ensuring you finish strong.

One more day to go—let’s make it count! 🚵‍♂️🔥⛰️

We’ve saved the best for last—and there’s no better way to end this incredible 14-day adventure than by taking on the Sella Ronda one final time, this time riding it in reverse (anti-clockwise).

This ultimate ride features the four legendary Dolomite passes—Passo Gardena, Passo Sella, Passo Pordoi, and Passo Campolongo—delivering a perfect blend of challenging climbs, sweeping descents, and some of the most breathtaking views in cycling.

With the last few turns of the pedals, we’ll reflect on the epic roads we’ve conquered, the friendships we’ve built, and the unforgettable memories we’ve created. And later, we’ll celebrate in true style, with a final dinner and drinks, toasting to an adventure of a lifetime.

Climb 1: Passo Gardena (Cat 2)

9.3km | 6.4% avg | 10% max

Our final day begins with a steady climb up Passo Gardena, this time tackled from the opposite direction. At 9.3km with an average gradient of 6.4%, this ascent is longer but more gradual than when we rode it on Day 13.

The road twists beautifully through the high alpine landscape, and with fresh morning light bouncing off the jagged Dolomite peaks, there’s no better way to start the final ride.

Climb 2: Passo Sella (Cat 2)

5.5km | 7.9% avg | 11% max

Next up is Passo Sella, a short, punchy climb that has tested the best riders in the Giro d’Italia. At 5.5km with an average gradient of 7.9%, this climb is challenging but rewarding, offering stunning panoramic views of the Sella Massif and Sassolungo peaks.

Reaching the summit, we take a moment to soak in the incredible scenery before dropping into a fast and thrilling descent toward the base of our next challenge.

Climb 3: Passo Pordoi (Cat 1)

9.2km | 6.9% avg | 8.9% max

We now take on Passo Pordoi, one of the most iconic and revered climbs in cycling history. This 9.2km ascent is one of the smoothest and most rhythmic climbs in the Dolomites, making it a pure joy to ride.

With 27 hairpin switchbacks, this road is a true masterpiece, winding its way up to 2,239m, where a monument to Fausto Coppi stands as a tribute to one of the greatest climbers of all time.

This is a moment to reflect on everything we’ve achieved over the past 13 days—but there’s still one final climb left before we officially finish this incredible journey.

Climb 4: Passo Campolongo (Cat 3)

6km | 5.8% avg | 10.1% max

Our final ascent of the tour is a familiar one, the smooth and steady Passo Campolongo. At 6km with a 5.8% gradient, this climb is short and manageable, allowing us to push one last effort before coasting back into Corvara.

As we summit, we take in the breathtaking Dolomite landscape one final time, savoring every second of this unforgettable experience.

From here, it’s a joyful descent back into Corvara, where we cross the final finish line of this epic adventure.

Ride Summary:

🚴‍♂️ Distance: ~55km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: ~1,700m
🔥 Passo Gardena (Cat 2): 9.3km | 6.4% avg | 10% max
🔥 Passo Sella (Cat 2): 5.5km | 7.9% avg | 11% max
🔥 Passo Pordoi (Cat 1): 9.2km | 6.9% avg | 8.9% max
🔥 Passo Campolongo (Cat 3): 6km | 5.8% avg | 10.1% max

The Grand Finale – A Night to Remember

After 13 days of epic riding, it’s time to celebrate in style.

Tonight, we gather for a final dinner and drinks, recounting the unforgettable climbs, the hardest moments, the biggest victories, and the breathtaking beauty of the Dolomites, Slovenia, and Austria.

This has been more than just a cycling tour—it’s been a journey through some of the greatest roads in the world, a shared adventure of challenge and triumph, and an experience that will stay with us forever.

To the mountains, to the climbs, and to the incredible riders who took on this journey—cheers to an adventure of a lifetime! 🚵‍♂️🔥⛰️🥂