You should do this at least in a lifetime… and then you ride it even in the reverse direction!
In this post I collected pictures taken in 2021 and 2022.
| Distance | Elevation gain | My opinion |
| 52 km | 1600 m | 11/10 |
Passo Campolongo from Corvara, 1875 m
Don’t get disappointed climbing Campolongo from Corvara. Although here you will not get any breathtaking views in front of you, but you can treat this climb as a great warmup. From the other hand I think it’s perfect for beginners to get used to climbing and practice downhill skills.
| Length | Max grade | Average grade | Vertical climb |
| 5.8 km | 11% | 6% | 353 m |
Soon after you start climbing, you can stop at the viewpoint:
Passo Pordoi from Arabba, 2239 m
| Length | Max grade | Average grade | Vertical climb |
| 9.2 km | 9,7% | 6.9% | 638 m |
The Passo Pordoi doesn’t need too much of an introduction. It’s one of the most famous climbs and has made an incredible number of appearances in the Giro d’Italia since its introduction in 1940, being often the highest point of the race.
The first section of the climb are some series of hairpins with few long straights between. The climb is largely above the treeline, so the scenery is impressive. These are the surroundings you are waiting for! But… If you get headwind here at the beginning, it’ll be tough the whole way to the top.
The road was the scene of intense fighting during the First World War and there is a small museum at the summit documenting this.
The climb boasts two monuments at its peak. Firstly, a memorial to the legendary Italian cyclist Fausto Coppi and also one to fellow countryman Gilberto Simoni.
Coppi, who won the Giro five times, adored the Pordoi. He said: „I was the first over the summit there five times, maybe because whenever I was in that area I could breathe beautifully”. That’s also why I feel so well being there.
Passo Sella from the Pordoi crossroads, 2244 m
| Length | Max grade | Average grade | Vertical climb |
| 5.5 km | 12% | 7.9% | 439 m |
In my opinion it’s the most difficult climb from all four, but the view makes up for the suffering! Here you will take the most impressive pictures this day.
Passo Gardena from Plan De Gralba, 2121 m
| Length | Max grade | Average grade | Vertical climb |
| 9.5 km | 10% | 5.3% | 535 m |
Yes, time for my favorite one – Passo Gardena! The feeling it’s the last climb of the day gives me more energy. It looks pretty easy, but if you’re approaching it after a long loop it may feel like a tough climb.
I love to stay there at the top and admire the fantastic surroundings…
After the ride you shouldn’t forget about some recovery drinks! Well-deserved, necessary to drink outside admiring the beautiful views! 🙂
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