Italy is known for its beautiful landscapes, stunning architecture, and delicious food but at Love Velo we are all about the top cycling events in Italy. The Giro d'Italia is one of the most prestigious cycling events and it considered one of the three Grand Tours of cycling along with the Tour de France and Vuelta a España. However our blog is going to focus on the the best cycling events that an amateur cyclist can ride.
The Maratona dles Dolomites
Let us give you the inside scoop on what we think is one of the the top cycling events in Italy, if not the very best. If you are thinking of going on a cycling holiday in Italy, make it this one.
The Maratona dles Dolomites takes place in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Dolomites in Italy. The Italian Dolomites are a sight to behold, a natural masterpiece of soaring peaks and rugged valleys that are as captivating as they are majestic. The unique geology of the region has given rise to a landscape of unparalleled beauty, with towering limestone cliffs, sprawling forests, and shimmering lakes that reflect the surrounding peaks in a dazzling array of colours. From the jagged spires of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo to the winding passes of the Sella Ronda, the Dolomites are a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and a feast for the eyes. Whether you're hiking along a mountain trail, cycling through winding roads, or simply gazing in awe at the natural beauty of the region, the Dolomites are a true wonder of the world that will leave you breathless with wonder and appreciation for the beauty of nature.
There are 3 routes to ride and each covers similarly spectacular roads.
The Sella Ronda Route
The Sellla Ronda, literally meaning 'round the Sella' takes you on a breathtaking journey through the heart of the Italian Dolomites. This iconic route, which has been dubbed one of the most spectacular cycling routes in the world, winds its way around the towering peaks of the Sella Massif. The route itself is a challenging 55 kilometer loop that takes riders over four mountain passes - the Passo Campolongo, Passo Pordoi, Passo Sella and finally the Passo Gardena, with a total elevation gain of over 1,780 meters.
The Medium Route
The medium route takes in the Sella Ronda but climbs the Cmapolongo twice. From there, it's a huge freewheel to the bottom of the Passo Falzarego where rides will ascend through the mountain before looping back round to Corvara, close to where they started the race. Many riders enjoy this route as it's a tough 106km ride taking in 3,130m of climbing, without riding the mammoth Passo Giau of the long route. Even without the Giau, this is route is one of the top cycling events in Italy.
The Granfondo Maratona dles Dolomites
The big one! This course covers a total distance of 138 kilometers and covers a leg shattering 4,230m of ascent. The ride includes seven major mountain passes, including the Passo Campolongo, Passo Pordoi, Passo Sella, Passo Gardena, Passo Campolongo (again), Passo Giau, and Passo Falzarego. The total elevation gain for the event is over 4,000 meters, and the highest point on the course reaches an altitude of 2,239 meters.
The difference between the long route and the medium route is quite simply, the Giau. This absolute monster of a climb is 10km at an almost unbroken 10% incline. There's no respite, nowhere to recuperate and it's one of the toughest climbs in the area, without it being tagged on to what is an already challenging route.
Does the Maratona dles Dolomites have a time limit?
Yes, there is a time limit for the Maratona of 7 hours and 30 minutes, which means that participants must complete the entire course within this time frame to be considered official finishers.
There are also intermediate time cut-offs along the course, which participants must reach within a specified time limit to be allowed to continue. These time cut-offs are designed to ensure that participants are able to complete the course within the overall time limit, and to maintain the safety and integrity of the event.
What is the toughest climb on the Maratona dles Dolomites?
The Giau, The Giau and The Giau! Listen, all the climbing in the Dolomites is tough but the Giau stands out on its own in our opinion. It simply provides no respite from the moment you turn left after a long freewheel from Arabba. The climb features a multitude of switchbacks as it traverses the stream that flows through the middle of the mountain and during the Maratona, there is almost a deathly silence as riders try to conquer the penultimate climb of the event. The Giau is what makes the Maratona one of the top cycling events in Italy.
How to enter
The Maratona ballots its places and even after 10,000 cyclists sign up, there are another 40,000 who miss out. Fortunately, as one of the oldest cycling holiday operators for the organisers, we have guaranteed entry to the event, along with plenty of options of where to stay, and how to reach the Dolomites. If you want to ride what we consider to be the top cycling events in Italy, click here.
Are the roads closed?
Yes, the roads are closed to traffic during the event and are in effect for the duration of the even. During this time, the roads are exclusively reserved for participants in the Maratona dles Dolomites, and no other vehicles are allowed on the course other than support and emergency vehicles.
This not only enhances the safety of the event, but also allows riders to fully immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Dolomites without worrying about traffic or other distractions. It's one of the many reasons why the Maratona dles Dolomites is considered one of the premier cycling events in the world, offering a truly unforgettable experience for riders of all levels.
What else is great about the event?
It's live on Italian tv! The start of the race, and up the first climb, you will see helicopters hovering just a few metres above your heads as they chase the leaders over the mountains, and pull back for some incredible action shots of a sea of cyclists riding these epic mountains. Our claim to fame was that in 2021, one of our team won the Sella Ronda route and we had our name plastered all over Rai 3, the Italian sports broadcaster's feed!
The Nove Colli
If you're looking to ride on of the top cycling events in Italy, it's hard to look past the Nove Colli, also known as the "Nine Hills". The event was first held in 1971 making it the oldest of the top cycling events in Italy. It has since become one of the most prestigious and challenging Granfondo races in the world.
The race covers a distance of 205 kilometers and features nine major hills or "colli" that the participants must climb. These hills include the Barbotto, Perticara, and Passo del Carnevale, among others. The course also includes long stretches of flat roads, making it a true test of endurance and strength for cyclists.
The Nove Colli race is known for its beautiful scenery and challenging course, and has become a beloved event among cyclists worldwide. It's a true test of skill and determination, and provides an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike.
The toughest climb on the Nove Colli
The Barbotto climb is located about halfway through the race and is approximately 6.7 kilometers long, with an average gradient of 10%. However, the steepest part of the climb has a gradient of up to 18%, making it a difficult challenge for even the most seasoned cyclists. The climb is characterized by its switchbacks, which can make it difficult to maintain momentum and add to the overall difficulty of the climb.
Despite its challenges, the Barbotto climb is also one of the most beautiful parts of the Nove Colli course, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Adriatic Sea. Many cyclists consider reaching the summit of this challenging climb to be a major accomplishment and one of the highlights of the Nove Colli race.
Is there a time limit?
Yes, there is a time limit for the Nove Colli race. Participants must complete the entire 205-kilometer course within 12 hours. This means that riders must maintain an average speed of at least 17 km/h to finish the race within the time limit.
While the Nove Colli race is a challenging event, it is also designed to be accessible to cyclists of all levels. There are several aid stations along the route where riders can refuel and rest, and participants are encouraged to ride at their own pace and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
However, riders who do not finish within the time limit will not receive an official time or be considered a finisher of the race. For this reason, it is important for participants to train and prepare appropriately to ensure that they are able to complete the entire course within the allotted time.
Are the roads closed?
While the Nove Colli organizers work closely with local authorities to ensure the safety of participants, the race is not entirely held on closed roads.
Most of the course is on open roads, although traffic is generally restricted or re-routed during the race. In some sections, traffic is completely stopped to allow cyclists to pass, but in other areas, participants must share the road with cars and other vehicles.
Despite this, the organizers work hard to ensure the safety of all participants and spectators, with a team of volunteers and police officers managing traffic and providing assistance along the route. The Nove Colli race is a well-organized and highly respected event, and the organizers take the safety of all participants very seriously.
It's worth noting that cyclists should always ride carefully and follow the rules of the road, even when participating in organized events like the Nove Colli. While the race organizers do their best to ensure safety, accidents can happen, and it's important for all participants to take responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others.
The Stelvio Santini
The Granfondo Stelvio Santini is a challenging and prestigious cycling event that takes place in the Italian Alps. It is undoubtedly one of the top cycling events in Italy given it passes over the Stelvio, the second highest paved road in Europe. The race starts and finishes in the town of Bormio and covers a distance of 151 kilometers with over 4,000 meters of elevation gain. The highlight of the race is the climb to the Stelvio Pass, which is widely considered one of the most iconic and challenging climbs in the world of cycling.
The Stelvio Pass climb is 24.3 kilometers long and has an average gradient of 7.5%, with some sections reaching up to 12%. The climb features 48 hairpin turns and takes riders up to an altitude of 2,758 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest paved mountain passes in Europe. The climb is a true test of endurance and strength, with many cyclists pushing themselves to their limits to reach the summit.
The Granfondo Stelvio Santini is a popular event for both amateur and professional cyclists, with participants coming from all over the world to take on the challenge. The event is well-organized and attracts a large number of spectators, creating a lively and exciting atmosphere.
In addition to the main race, there are also shorter courses available for those who prefer a less challenging ride. The race is sponsored by Santini, one of the leading manufacturers of cycling apparel in the world, and features a wide range of merchandise and souvenirs.
Overall, the Granfondo Stelvio Santini is a must-do event for any serious cyclist looking for a true challenge in one of the most beautiful and iconic cycling destinations in the world. We would alos recomend it as one of the best cycling tours in Italy.
How tough is it
The Granfondo Stelvio Santini is not for the faint of heart. With a grueling total distance of 151 kilometers and over 4,000 meters of elevation gain, this cycling event is a true test of endurance and strength. However, the highlight of the race is undoubtedly the climb to the Stelvio Pass, which is a 24.3 kilometer-long ascent with an average gradient of 7.5% and sections that reach up to a punishing 12%. This climb is a legendary feat of cycling, with its high altitude, steep gradients, and 48 treacherous hairpin turns making it a challenge even for the most experienced cyclists.
But the difficulty of the Granfondo Stelvio Santini doesn't stop there. The course also includes several other challenging ascents and descents, as well as technical and narrow roads that require skill and precision to navigate. It's a true test of both physical and mental toughness, requiring participants to be in top-notch physical condition and have a high level of cycling ability.
Despite the intense difficulty, the Granfondo Stelvio Santini is a highly sought-after event for serious cyclists, attracting participants from all over the world. And for those who are up to the challenge, the reward is an unforgettable experience of pushing oneself to the limit and experiencing the stunning beauty of one of the most iconic cycling destinations in the world.
The Stelvio Pass in the summer
Is there a time limit?
Yes, there is a time limit to complete the Granfondo Stelvio Santini. The time limit for the main event is 9 hours, which means that participants must complete the entire course within this time frame to be considered official finishers.
There are also intermediate time cut-offs along the course, which participants must reach within a specified time limit to be allowed to continue. These time cut-offs are designed to ensure that participants are able to complete the course within the overall time limit, and to maintain the safety and integrity of the event.
It's worth noting that the Granfondo Stelvio Santini is a challenging event that requires a high level of fitness and cycling ability, so it's important to train and prepare adequately to ensure that you're able to complete the course within the time limit. However, with proper preparation and a determined mindset, it's definitely an achievable challenge.
How do I get to Bormio?
Bormio is located in the northern Italian region of Lombardy, in the province of Sondrio. There are several ways to get to Bormio depending on your starting location and mode of transportation. The closest major airport to Bormio is Milan and then it's a drive into the mountains. Alternatively, you can go via Zurich, and Innsbruck.
Once you arrive in Bormio, you can explore the town and surrounding area by foot or by bike, and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery and rich cultural heritage of this historic Italian town.
Are the roads closed?
No, the roads are not closed for the Granfondo Stelvio Santini. This event takes place on public roads, which are open to traffic during the race. However, the organizers do their best to ensure the safety of the participants by providing road marshals and police escorts, as well as advising drivers to be cautious and respectful of the cyclists on the road.