Why the Maratona dles Dolomites Is Cycling's Most Iconic Sportive

Why the Maratona dles Dolomites Is a Bucket-List Cycling Event

For many cyclists, the Maratona dles Dolomites isn't just another sportive. It's one of the most iconic cycling events in Italy, a true bucket-list cycling event, and an experience that combines world-class organisation, legendary mountain climbs, and some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe.

In this episode of Where We Ride, hosts Lee and Georgia are joined by our very own Kevin Pipe, Maratona organisers Cindy Vittur and Carolin Pitscheider, and Alta Badia representative Roberto Huber to explore what makes the event so special and why thousands of cyclists travel to the Dolomites every summer hoping to secure a place on the start line.

The conversation offers a fascinating look behind the scenes of one of Europe's most prestigious endurance cycling events, uncovering the history, atmosphere, and unique culture that have helped make the Maratona dles Dolomites famous around the world.

From Local Cycling Celebration to Global Cycling Event

The origins of the Maratona are surprisingly modest.

The first edition took place in 1987 with just 166 riders taking part in what was originally a celebration of a local cycling club anniversary.

Today, the event attracts more than 32,000 applications for just 8,000 places, making it one of the most sought-after entries in amateur cycling.

"What began as a small celebration marking a cycling club's 10th anniversary has totally evolved into an increasingly popular and international event."

The event's growth has mirrored the rise of cycling travel in Italy, with riders now travelling from across Europe, the UK, North America, and beyond to experience the famous roads of the Dolomites.

Why Cycling in the Dolomites Is So Special

One of the strongest themes throughout the podcast is the unique appeal of cycling in the Dolomites.

The region offers something that very few cycling destinations can match: dramatic mountain scenery, perfectly maintained roads, traditional alpine villages, and a cycling culture that feels deeply embedded in everyday life.

Kevin explains that the Maratona succeeds because it combines exceptional organisation with a truly spectacular setting.

"It is a combination of riding in a UNESCO World Heritage site in some of the most stunning scenery you can ever ride in."

For cyclists considering cycling holidays in the Dolomites or planning future cycling trips to Italy, the episode highlights exactly why the region has become one of Europe's premier cycling destinations.

What Is It Like Riding the Maratona dles Dolomites?

One of the questions Lee explores throughout the episode is simple:

What is the Maratona dles Dolomites experience actually like?

The answer goes far beyond distance and elevation gain.

The event is broadcast live on Italian national television, helicopters follow the riders throughout the day, and the atmosphere often feels closer to a professional race than an amateur sportive.

"It's the Italian version of the London Marathon."

For many participants, it's the closest they'll ever come to experiencing the feeling of riding a Grand Tour mountain stage.

The combination of road closures, huge spectator support, and the dramatic setting creates an unforgettable experience for riders of all abilities.

The Famous Maratona dles Dolomites Route

The podcast also dives into the famous Maratona dles Dolomites route, which offers three distance options.

Riders can choose from:

55km Sella Ronda route
106km medium course
138km long course
Up to 4,000 metres of climbing

The shortest route follows the iconic Sella Ronda cycling route, one of the most famous cycling loops in Europe.

Georgia was surprised by just how difficult the shorter option proved to be.

"For an ex-pro it was one of the hardest 55ks of my life."

The longer routes introduce riders to some of the most legendary cycling climbs in the Dolomites, including Campolongo, Gardena, Sella, Pordoi, Falzarego, Valparola, and the infamous Passo Giau.

For many riders, tackling these famous mountain roads is one of the biggest reasons they travel to the event.

Passo Giau: The Climb Everyone Talks About

Every major cycling event has a defining challenge.

For the Maratona, that challenge is often the Passo Giau cycling climb.

Only included on the longest route, the Giau arrives later in the day when riders already have thousands of metres of climbing in their legs.

The climb averages close to 10% gradient and quickly earns the respect of anyone attempting it.

Lee remembers it as one of the toughest climbs he has ever ridden.

The conversation highlights how the Passo Giau has become one of the defining experiences of riding the Maratona dles Dolomites.

For many cyclists, simply reaching the summit is a major achievement.

Why the Atmosphere Makes the Difference

What separates the Maratona from many other European cycling sportives is the atmosphere.

The local communities fully embrace the event, turning the roads into a celebration of cycling.

Spectators line the climbs with cowbells, banners, music, and encouragement.

The famous Cat Wall near the finish has become one of the most memorable spectator locations anywhere in amateur cycling, with crowds helping riders tackle gradients approaching 19%.

The atmosphere continues long after riders cross the finish line.

The traditional pasta party brings thousands of cyclists together to celebrate, swap stories, and reflect on the day's challenges.

More Than a Cycling Event

One of the most interesting insights from the organisers is that they don't see the Maratona as simply a sportive.

Instead, they view it as a complete destination experience.

Riders arrive several days before the event, spending time exploring Alta Badia, enjoying local hospitality, riding additional routes, and experiencing the culture of the Dolomites.

For many visitors, the event becomes part of a wider cycling holiday in the Dolomites, combining challenging rides with incredible scenery and world-class hospitality.

This is one of the reasons so many participants return year after year.

Why Cyclists Keep Returning to the Maratona

Perhaps the strongest message throughout the podcast is that riders rarely experience the Maratona only once.

Many participants come back repeatedly.

Some return to improve their times.

Others return for the atmosphere, the scenery, and the opportunity to ride some of the most famous roads in world cycling.

For cyclists interested in cycling travel, endurance cycling events in Europe, cycling climbs in Italy, or simply unforgettable riding experiences, the Maratona offers something genuinely unique.

As Kevin puts it:

It's not a race, it's a ride.

Final Thoughts

This episode provides a fascinating look behind the scenes of one of cycling's most iconic events.

From the origins of the Maratona dles Dolomites to the challenges of organising an event for thousands of riders, Lee and Georgia uncover why this sportive continues to capture the imagination of cyclists around the world.

Whether you're researching the Maratona dles Dolomites experience, planning a future cycling holiday in the Dolomites, looking for information on the Maratona dles Dolomites route, or simply interested in the best cycling events in Italy, this episode offers valuable insight into a ride that many consider the ultimate amateur cycling challenge.