Dolomites and Italian Alps
Dolomites and Italian Alps
Stelvio, Mortirolo, Gavia, Sella, Fedaia, Valles, ... the dream in a single trip
bike type
Highway
Duration
8 days
Profile
Sport
Distance and slope
547 km / +14.640 m
Trip Summary
Discover the adventure of road biking in the legendary Italian Alps and Dolomites
Embark on a unique experience through some of the most iconic mountain passes in the world. If you are passionate about cycling and dream of challenging yourself on the legendary climbs of the Stelvio Pass, Mortirolo, Topsail, Foscagno, Sella, Fedaia, San Pellegrino, Pordoi, ...
It is Including bike rental for all days of the route.
This trip is designed for you!!
You can join on the scheduled date until group is complete, or if you are a group and want other dates doing it at your own pace self-guided, ask us for a customized quote.
Date and availability
Get the Bikefriendly Club and get a 10% off automatically for this trip.
Location
Meet our guide
Sergio
Trip description
During this unique experience, you will have the opportunity to conquer two of the most impressive mountain regions in Italy: the Italian Alps and the majestic Dolomites. Enjoy the best alpine scenery while cycling along perfectly paved roads that wind through dreamlike landscapes.
Forget about huge suitcases at the airport and check-in, it's including the Bianchi Infinito rental bike with Shimano 105 Di2 12 speed, during all the days of the route.
The first days in the Alps, our base will be located in the charming city of Bormio, a perfect place to start the climbs. Here, you will challenge the slopes of the Stelvio Pass, one of the most impressive roads in the world, the Mortirolo known for its toughness and Gavia Pass, where cyclists have written epic stories of the Giro d'Italia.
The last days in Dolomites The routes will depart from the picturesque town of Canazei, from where you will set off to conquer dream ports such as Sella Pass, the defiant one Fedaia Pass and the pordoiThe Dolomites will take your breath away, not only because of their altitude, but because of the landscapes that will surround you as you cross imposing mountains and green valleys.
This experience is designed for those cyclists who are looking for physical and technical challenges, with mountain routes that will test you on each climb. You will have a professional team that will support you at all times.
The accommodations in Bormio y Canazei They will offer you everything you need to rest and recharge your batteries after each day. Both places are perfectly located to easily start your daily routes.
As you ascend the passes, you will be able to enjoy spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, green valleys, and picturesque mountain villages. It will not only be a physical challenge, but also an unforgettable visual experience.
This is much more than a trip; it is the opportunity to fulfill a cycling dreamDare to pedal along the roads where the most epic pages of cycling have been written and challenge yourself on some of the most emblematic mountain passes in Europe.
Think no more!
Book your place and get ready for an adventure in the Italian Alps and the Dolomites that will push you to the limit and reward you with unforgettable memories.
Itinerary
Bormio: briefing and ascent to Laghi di Cancano
Distance
39,4 Km
Elevation
+930m
Bormio: briefing and ascent to Laghi di Cancano
10:00 a.m. Regrouping at the Orio al Serio-Bergamo Airport and transfer of approximately 3 hours to the hotel in Bormio. Bormio It is a charming alpine town famous for its hot springs and surrounded by imposing mountains.
13:00 h assembly and delivery of the bikes.
14:00 p.m. briefing where the five-day routes will be explained.
At 15:00 p.m., depart for your first day of altitude acclimatization in the Italian Alps. You'll begin with a spectacular circular route from Bormio (1200 m) to the impressive Laghi di Cancano (1950 m) two deep blue lakes located in a dreamlike mountain setting.
After a few warm-up kilometers on a gentle slope, you will begin to face a series of tight curves and a constant, but not too aggressive, climb towards the Laghi di CancanoThe landscape changes quickly, and as you climb you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the Bormio Valley and the nearby Alps.
Once in the Laghi di Cancano, two stunning man-made lakes surrounded by mountains, you can take a break, enjoy the views and recharge your batteries before heading back. If you feel like it, you can explore a little further around the lakes and revel in the tranquil beauty of the place.
The descent back to Bormio It is relaxing and fast, with wide curves that allow you to enjoy the speed and the scenery at the same time. After the effort of the climb, the descent will be the perfect reward before returning to the hotel, where you can relax and prepare your energies for the next stages.
Bormio: Passo Mortirolo, Passo Gavia
Distance
114,60 Km
Elevation
+3.248m
Bormio: Passo Mortirolo, Passo Gavia
The day starts at your hotel in Bormio in a relaxed manner, as you prepare yourself mentally and physically for the epic climbs that await you.
After a few kilometres of warm-up on soft terrain, you will face one of the most feared and legendary ports in cycling: the Mortirolo Pass (1.852 m), part of the history of the Giro of Italia. Famous for its toughness, this port features steep slopes reaching gradients of 18%, with a demanding climb of over 12 km. This is one of the biggest challenges any cyclist can face, known for its tight turns and the constant effort it requires.
Along the climb you will find monuments and references to cycling legends such as Marco Pantani, who consolidated his fame on this climb. The feeling of achievement upon reaching the top is incomparable.
You will then enjoy a technical descent that will allow you to regain strength and prepare for the next challenge. After a link along mountain roads, you will head towards the next port of the day: the Gavia Pass (2.621 m), another of the great icons of cycling that offers one of the hardest and most spectacular climbs in the Alps. The Gavia is longer than the Mortirolo, but no less demanding, with gradients ranging from 8% to 12%. As you ascend, the landscape changes from lush forests to a desolate alpine setting, with views of glaciers and snow-capped peaks. The road narrows at some points, adding a touch of adventure to the journey.
The descent of Gavia Pass to Bormio It's long and dizzying. The wide curves and winding road allow you to enjoy the speed as you slide through the Alps. Returning to Bormio, you can relax and enjoy a well-deserved rest at the hotel, perhaps with a visit to the city's famous thermal baths to soothe your muscles. This route will undoubtedly be one of the most unforgettable days of your cycling life.
Bormio: Passo Foscagno, Forcola, Livigno
Distance
125 km
Elevation
+2.800m
Bormio: Passo Foscagno, Forcola, Livigno
Day of adventure that will take you on a spectacular route with longer and more fluid climbs than the previous days, including the Foscagno Pass and the Forcola of Livigno, before stopping in the charming alpine town of Livigno.
The day begins once again in Bormio, with a gentle start on well-paved roads that allow you to warm up as you move away from the valley and prepare for the first big climb of the day. A few kilometres away, the climb to the Foscagno Pass (2.291 m). The slopes average 6-7%, which will allow you to maintain a constant pace, while enjoying the stunning views of the alpine landscape, with a panoramic view of the valley of valdidentro.
From Passo Foscagno, you will enjoy a short but exciting descent towards the Livigno Valley. Next, you will head to the ascent of the Forcola of Livigno (2.315 m), a lesser-known but equally impressive mountain pass, with smooth roads and a high mountain landscape that will envelop you. The slopes here are more friendly, allowing you to enjoy the route.
After crowning the Forcola of Livigno, a long and flowing descent awaits you towards the alpine town of Livigno, a paradise for cyclists and a famous duty-free shopping destination. Here you can take a well-deserved break, enjoy a light meal and briefly explore the lively city centre.
From Livigno, you will start the way back to your hotel in Bormio, with a long and fast descent, which will allow you to enjoy the wind in your face as you descend the wide curves that go down to the valley.
Bormio: Passo Stelvio, Prato allo Stelvio
Distance
46,8 km
Elevation
+1.560m
Bormio: Passo Stelvio, Prato allo Stelvio
The fourth day of the route begins again in Bormio, with the mind focused on the mythical Stelvio Pass (2.758 m). As you leave the city, the atmosphere is one of anticipation, knowing that today you will face one of the most iconic mountain passes in the world of cycling.
El Stelvio Pass (2.758 m) is one of the most legendary and longest climbs in the Alps. From Bormio, the climb is about 21.5 km, with an average gradient of 7.1%. The climb is constant, passing through the famous curves and tunnels that will take you higher and higher, until you reach the top of the second highest paved road in the Alps.
The famous switchbacks, especially on the final stretch before the summit, are an unrivalled experience. As you ascend, the feeling of achievement increases, while the views become more and more impressive, with glaciers and snow-capped peaks as a backdrop. Throughout the climb, the road winds majestically through the valley, challenging you both physically and mentally.
Once you reach the top of the Stelvio, you will find yourself in one of the most iconic places for cyclists from all over the world. Here you can take a well-deserved break. The summit offers a breathtaking view of the Trafoi valley and the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, the panorama is simply spectacular.
From the summit, a long and technical descent begins along the east face of the Stelvio, heading towards Prad, known for its 48 hairpin turns that challenge riders and offer incredible views at every turn. You'll need to stay focused and enjoy the descent as you approach the valley.
Upon reaching the valley, you will feel elated after having completed one of the most iconic routes in world cycling. Prad, you will meet with the support team, where you will load the bikes onto the support vehicle to transfer the stage to the town of Canazei, in the heart of Dolomites, in a journey of about 2:30 h
Canazei: Passo Pordoi, Passo Campolongo, Passo Gardena, Passo Sella
Distance
64,4 km
Elevation
+2.050m
Canazei: Passo Pordoi, Passo Campolongo, Passo Gardena, Passo Sella
Fifth day that starts early at the hotel Canazei, a beautiful village nestled in the Dolomites. From the first moment, you enter the heart of the mountains, knowing that a day full of challenging climbs and postcard landscapes awaits you, surrounding the massif of the Sella and offers unforgettable panoramic views in each of its sections
The first big challenge of the day is the Pordoi Pass (2.239 m), one of the most famous ports in the Dolomites and a key part of the Giro of ItaliaFrom Canazei, the climb is about 12km, with an average gradient of 6-7%. The road is dotted with 27 hairpin bends that take you through spectacular scenery, with views of towering dolomite peaks as you go. At the top, you'll find a monument to the legendary cyclist Fausto coppi, and the place offers stunning views of the valley of Fassa and the mountains that surround it.
From the top of Pordoi, you will enjoy a technical but exciting descent to the village of Arabba. Here begins the second climb of the day: the Campolongo Pass (1.875 m), a shorter climb of about 6 km, with gentle gradients of 5-6%. Although not as demanding as other passes, it is still a challenge after the Pordoi.
After a quick descent from Campolongo, you will reach Corvara, one of the most beautiful villages in the region, from where you will begin the third climb of the day: the Gardena Pass (2.121 m). The climb from Corvara is about 9 km, with an average gradient of 6%. The road takes you through alpine meadows and offers panoramic views of the Val GardenaAs you approach the summit, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with towering rocks that seem to touch the sky.
From the Gardena, you descend towards Selva di Val Gardena, to then begin the final climb of the day: the Sella Pass (2.244 m). The climb, about 5.5 km from the base, is short but intense, with steeper gradients, reaching 8-9% in some sections. From the summit, you will have a close view of the majestic group of Langkofel and its sharp peaks. It is a port that rewards all the effort with unforgettable panoramas and a unique sense of achievement.
After completing this unforgettable tour of the most iconic ports of the Dolomites, you will return to Canazei with an indescribable feeling of satisfaction. This circuit is not only a physical challenge, but a visual and emotional experience that every cyclist should experience at least once in their life.
Canazei: Passo San Pellegrino, Passo Valles
Distance
90 Km
Elevation
+1.980m
Canazei: Passo San Pellegrino, Passo Valles
On this sixth day of cycling through the Dolomites, you will face another epic route, starting from Canazei. We will take an initial stretch of road that will allow you to warm up your legs before facing the first big challenge of the day, the San Pellegrino pass (1.918 m), a port with a sustained and constant gradient. From the crossing in MoenaThe climb is about 18 km long, with an average gradient of 6-7%, although some sections can reach 10%. The effort is continuous, but the views will keep you motivated: green meadows, typical mountain houses and, in the last stretch, the open views of the rocky peaks of the Dolomites.
After reaching the top of San Pellegrino, an exciting descent of about 12 km awaits you to the charming village of falcade, where you will begin the climb to Valles Pass (2.031 m), the second major climb of the day. This climb is somewhat shorter, about 9 km, but the gradient is steeper in some sections, with an average of 7-8%. Valles Pass It is more isolated and wild, with less traffic, which will allow you to enjoy the silence and peace of the high mountains.
After a short break at the top of the Valles, you will enjoy another technical and exciting descent to Predazzo, a picturesque village at the foot of the mountains. From there, you will return to Canazei along a smooth road, ideal for stretching your legs after a day of hard work on the mountain passes.
Canazei: Fedaia Pass, Arabba, Pordoi Pass
Distance
66,6 km
Elevation
+2.060m
Canazei: Fedaia Pass, Arabba, Pordoi Pass
To close with a flourish your cycling experience in the Dolomites, the last day will take you on an intense and spectacular route, ascending two of the most iconic ports in the region
After the departure of Canazei, we ride a short stretch through the valley before facing the first challenge of the day: the dreaded Fedaia Pass (2.057 m). This initial stretch will allow you to warm up your legs while preparing for the demanding climb ahead. It is undoubtedly one of the most challenging and spectacular in the Dolomites. From Canazei, the climb is about 14 km, with average gradients of 7-8%, but some sections, especially in the last few kilometers, reach 11-12%, making it one of the toughest ports in the region. As you ascend, the views of the majestic Marmolada, dominates the horizon. At the top the beautiful Fedaia Lake.
After crowning the Fedaia, you will enjoy a fast and technical descent of about 12 km to the picturesque village of ArabbaThe descent is exciting, with tight turns and fast stretches that will take you through some of the most unspoiled landscapes of the Dolomites. From Arabba, you will begin the last big climb of the day and the trip: the legendary Pordoi Pass (2.239 m). This port is one of the most famous in the Dolomites and has been the protagonist in numerous editions of the Giro of Italia. The climb from Arabba is about 9 km, with an average gradient of 6-7%. Although not as hard as the Fedaia, the Pordoi is known for its 33 hairpin bends that will take you winding to the top, where you can stop to admire the monument to Fausto coppi and enjoy the panoramic views of the valleys and mountains that stretch out around you.
During the descent of Pordoi Pass to Canazei, you will have a last opportunity to admire the impressive mountains that have been your companions throughout the trip, especially the massif of Sella and the Marmolada, who will bid you farewell with their imposing presence.
Back home
Back home
After breakfast at the hotel, the time to say goodbye of these majestic mountains that have accompanied us throughout the adventure.
Los Dolomites and Alps, with its winding roads and imposing peaks, have given us intense days of cycling and the satisfaction of having conquered the most legendary ports in the world. Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France.
As the van brings us closer to the Orio al Serio-Bergamo Airport On a 4-hour journey, each of us will be moved by the excitement of the landscapes we traveled, the shared effort, and the magic of this unique land. A journey measured not only in kilometers, but in indelible memories and the certainty of having lived an extraordinary experience in the heart of Italy.
Advantages of booking your event with BikeFriendly
Culture
Culture and tradition in the Italian Alps and Dolomites
This trip is not only a challenge on two wheels: it is also a immersion in Alpine and Italian cultureBetween each stage, you'll discover postcard-perfect spots that have preserved their essence for centuries.
- Bormio, more than a starting point, is a medieval town full of history, famous for its Roman terms and its narrow cobblestone streets. A perfect place for a stroll at sunset and enjoying Alpine hospitality.
- The region of Upper Valtellina will surprise you with its gastronomy: dishes such as pizzoccheri (buckwheat pasta with cheese and vegetables), the bresaola cured and mountain wines, made on impossible terraces.
- In the Dolomites, Canazei It is the gateway to Ladino culture, a town with typical wooden architecture, flower-filled balconies, and its own traditions that date back centuries.
- El Val di Fassa offers you declared landscapes World Heritage Site by UNESCO, where legend and nature intertwine. Here, the mountains tell stories of ancient battles and Alpine myths.
- Between routes, you can get close to Bolzano o Ortisei, where Tyrolean art and Italian influence combine in unique markets, churches and museums.
- And, of course, you can't miss the Italian coffee culture: from an espresso in a small mountain café to a cappuccino overlooking an Alpine pass.
This trip will allow you experience Italy in all its dimensions: cycling through legendary locations, enjoying authentic cuisine, and immersing yourself in the customs and history of its mountain villages.
Weather
Ideal climate for cycling in summer
Summer is the perfect time to conquer the Italian Alps and the Dolomites. While much of Europe suffers from the summer heat, here you'll find mild and pleasant temperatures for riding.
- In the valleys, the maximum temperatures are usually around 20–25 °C, perfect for starting the stage with energy.
- In high mountain passes such as Stelvio or Gavia, the temperature can drop to 10–15 °C, offering freshness and clean air even in the middle of summer.
- The days are long and sunny, with more than 13 hours of daylight, allowing you to enjoy leisurely routes and make the most of every day.
- Summer is also the time when landscapes look their best: green meadows, shining glaciers and clear skies that offer unique panoramic views.
- Although the climate is stable, in high mountains it is always advisable to bring a windbreaker or light jacket for descents.
Here, summer is experienced differently: fresh air, alpine coolness, and the sensation of pedaling in a true cycling paradise.
Gastronomy
Alpine and Dolomite cuisine for cyclists
Cycling and Italian cuisine have something in common: passion and authenticityDuring this voyage, the table will be as memorable as the ports you will conquer.
- In Bormio and Valtellina, you will regain strength with the pizzoccheri (buckwheat pasta with vegetables, potatoes and local cheese), the sloppy (crispy cheese fritters) and the bresaola, a light, protein-rich cured meat perfect for after a demanding stage.
- Breakfasts will be designed for cyclists: artisan bread, homemade jams, cereals, fresh fruit, yogurt, and Italian coffee to start the day with energy.
- In the Dolomites, you will discover the Ladino cuisine, where polenta, hot mountain soups and grilled meats are combined with artisan cheeses and sausages from the region.
- There will be no shortage of desserts that will make every climb worthwhile: Apple strudel, homemade cakes and Italian ice creams with traditional recipes.
- And to toast each port conquered, nothing better than a high-altitude wine like the Valtellina Superiore DOCG or a craft beer brewed in the Alps.
Because on this trip you don't just pedal: You eat like a local and enjoy like a Giro champion.
Land
Legendary roads that every cyclist dreams of riding
On this trip we will cycle through some of the best mountain roads in Europe, where every curve tells a story and every climb has been the scene of unforgettable cycling feats.
- Perfect asphalt and well maintained, ideal for enjoying smooth and safe pedaling on all descents.
- Winding paths with postcard hairpins, like the 48 bends of the Stelvio Pass, a true work of alpine engineering.
- Roads with very low traffic, specially designed for the enjoyment of cyclists and mountain lovers.
- Legendary ports of the Giro of Italia such as Mortirolo or Gavia Pass, where you will feel the same excitement as the professionals when reaching the top.
- In the Dolomites, panoramic routes such as the Sella Pass, the Fedaia or pordoi, with World Heritage views that will accompany you with every pedal stroke.
- Combination of long climbs and technical descents, perfect for those seeking a physical challenge and the adrenaline rush of controlled speed.
Here, every kilometer is a reward: dreamy roads, breathtaking landscapes, and the feeling of riding through the Olympus of cycling.
Included services
Accommodations
Accommodations in a shared room. Possibility of choosing an extra single room.
Bed and breakfast
Accommodations with breakfast included.
Bike for rent
Bianchi Infinito bike with Shimano 105 Di2 12 speeds for rent for all days of the route.
Gobik jersey
A souvenir Gobik brand jersey will be given to all bookings made 60 days before the date of this trip.
Transfer
Transfer from Orio al Serio-Bergamo Airport to your hotel in Bormio and return at the end of your trip from Canazei.
Route guide
Guide accompanying on the route during filming days.
Support vehicle
Mechanical service and the possibility of changing clothes or getting into the vehicle during the route.
Refreshments en route
Solid and liquid supplies en route.
Luggage transfer
Luggage transfer between accommodations.
Route itinerary
Tracks of the stages, so you can load them on your GPS device or App that you normally use.
Briefing
Welcome briefing to explain the trip and answer questions.
Not included
Not included
Any service not detailed in the Included Services section
Direct Flights
Return flights to Orio al Serio-Bergamo Airport
Beverages
Lunch, dinner and drinks.
Visa
Management and obtaining of visas and permits necessary to enter the country
Additional to hire
Supplement for single occupancy room
If you prefer to sleep alone in the room, hire the supplement.
Assistance and cancellation insurance
If you think something unforeseen may arise, you can take out cancellation or travel assistance insurance.
Extra night before the trip
If you want to arrive in Bergamo the night before your trip begins, you can request assistance to arrange it.
Extra night at the end of the trip
If you want to stay a few more nights before returning home, you can book it.
20% discount on a training plan with Sergio Bike
If you book your trip 8 months before the start date, you will receive a 20% discount on the different training plans offered by Sergio Bike.
*Check our cancellation policy.
Gallery
Testimonials
The work being done by Bicycles Without Borders and Bikefriendly is commendable and makes me think there is still hope in the world.
I've seen firsthand that this project is real and not just a gimmick. The idea is truly brilliant, and it's helping many children and adolescents continue their education in a very meaningful way, as it's not a charity, but a means for the local population to develop.
The immersive experience in the country is complete, and traveling around the country by bike helps us feel fully integrated into the environment. In just one week, we've been able to understand and learn a lot about this country and its wonderful people, who are materially poor but spiritually rich.
I take my hat off to the work done by both the guide Sergio and the local team, which included Alpha, my lifelong friend and very professional, as well as Idi, Maurice, and Sidy.
I will definitely recommend this trip.
I recommend it, the routes exceeded my expectations! The hotels were good and the food was very good.
FAQs
I have allergies or intolerances. Can you adapt the menus?
Even though there are refreshment stations... do I have to bring my water and bars?
What will the group's rhythm be?
How are shared rooms?
Where will the support vehicle be?
Do you have any doubt? Ask us!
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