Take on two of Italy's most legendary mountain passes, combining the relentless gradients of Mortirolo with the high-altitude grandeur of Passo Gavia.
Few rides capture the spirit of Italian cycling quite like the Mortirolo and Passo Gavia route. It links two of the Alps' most celebrated climbs, creating a demanding day that has earned its place in Giro d'Italia history. The first challenge is the ascent of Mortirolo, widely regarded as one of the hardest paved climbs in Europe. Its unrelenting gradients leave little room for recovery, demanding steady pacing all the way to the summit. The narrow, forest-lined road adds to the sense of isolation, making every kilometre feel earned. After descending into the valley, the route turns towards the mighty Passo Gavia. Unlike the claustrophobic character of Mortirolo, Gavia gradually opens into a dramatic alpine landscape of rugged peaks and high mountain meadows. The final kilometres climb above the treeline before reaching the 2,621-metre summit, where the surrounding scenery provides a fitting reward for the effort. The long descent towards Bormio is fast and spectacular, with sweeping bends and ever-changing mountain views. Combining one of Europe's toughest climbs with one of Italy's highest paved passes, this route is a true bucket-list ride for experienced cyclists seeking an authentic challenge in the heart of the Italian Alps.
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