The impressive Dolomites form one of the most spectacular cycling areas in Europe. This mountain range in northern Italy stretches across the regions of Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia and is known for its dramatic rock formations, steep climbs and beautiful panoramic routes.
One of the most famous cycling routes in the Dolomites is the Sella Ronda, a loop of about 55 kilometres around the imposing Sella massif, where you brave four iconic climbs: the Passo Pordoi, Passo Sella, Passo Gardena and Passo Campolongo. This is an absolute must for any cyclist visiting the Dolomites. There are also numerous other legendary climbs, such as the Passo Giau, Passo Fedaia and the Passo Stelvio.
The Giro d'Italia has used the Dolomites as a battleground numerous times, with heroic battles on the steep slopes. If you want to experience the climbs from the Giro for yourself, the region cannot be ignored. But the Dolomites offer more than just leaden climbs. Authentic mountain villages, picturesque valleys and a rich Italian cycling culture make this area an absolute must for cyclists.
You don't have to be a seasoned climber to cycle here. Whether you want to tackle the most famous cols, explore gravel routes or take quieter rides through the valleys, there are options for every type of cyclist in the Dolomites.
The Dolomites differ from climbs in France in several ways. First of all, the landscape is completely different. Whereas the French Alps and the Pyrenees consist largely of granite and limestone, in the Dolomites the steep rock formations made of dolomite rock. This not only creates a more rugged and dramatic landscape, but also affects the climbing character.
In terms of climbs, the differences are quite noticeable. In France - both in the Alps if the Pyrenees - expire many cols more gradually, with longer climbs and a generally uniform rate of increase. Consider, for example, the Col du Galibier, Col du Tourmalet or Alpe d'Huez, which often include long straights where you can find a steady rhythm.
The Dolomites on the other hand, are known for their irregular, steep climbs. The climbs here more often include sections above the 10% rise, interspersed with short flat sections or even slight descents. This makes it harder to maintain a constant cadence, making the climbs more physically demanding. Well-known examples of this are the Passo Giau, Passo Mortirolo and Tre Cime di Lavaredo, where gradients can be well above 10% for a long time. To get over the Passo Fedaia not to mention.
In addition, the roads in the Dolomites are generally narrower and more technical than in France, both while climbing and descending. French cols tend to have wider asphalt and longer, flowing curves, while in the Dolomites hairpins are often shorter and steeper, making descents more challenging.
What makes cycling in the Dolomites extra special is the Italian cycling culture. Everywhere you will find cosy rifugios, espresso bars and bike-friendly hotels, which gives cycling here a unique atmosphere. Combine this with the impressive landscapes and rich cycling history, and you have one of the most beautiful cycling destinations in the world.
The Dolomites are a cyclists' paradise, offering a huge variety of climbs and routes. From long, steep climbs to rolling valleys, every cyclist will find a perfect challenge here. Choosing a base depends on what you are looking for: do you want to climb the highest and toughest cols, a central location for multiple routes or combine a relaxing cycling holiday with Italian culture and gastronomy?
Click on any of the destinations below to learn more about the area and nearby climbs. We give you some handy basecamps to explore the Dolomites.
Bormio, located in the province of Sondrio, is an absolute must for cyclists who want to test themselves on some of the Dolomites' toughest climbs. This town lies at the foot of legendary cols that often feature in the Giro d'Italia be included and is a perfect place to explore some of the highest paved roads in Europe.
Climb from here include:
Bormio is ideal for cyclists looking for long, tough climbs. The roads are well maintained, and the town offers plenty of bike-friendly accommodation, bike rentals and thermal baths to recuperate after a hard ride.
Bolzano is the perfect mix of city and nature and is located at the foot of the Dolomites. Here you can not only enjoy the Italian and Tyrolean culture, but also discover amazing climbs in the region. From Bolzano you have access to both the western and eastern Dolomites, making it a strategic base.
Climb from here include:
Bolzano is perfect for cyclists who want to enjoy cycling as well as vibrancy, gastronomy and culture. The city offers many cycling facilities and is an excellent base for tours in several directions.
Corvara in Alta Badia is the epicentre of cycling in the Dolomites. This mountain village lies directly on the world-famous Sella Ronda, one of Europe's most spectacular cycling routes. Here you will experience the real Dolomite atmosphere, with a mix of challenging climbs, breathtaking views and perfectly paved roads.
Climb from here include:
Corvara is ideal for cyclists who want to stay in the middle of the Dolomites and ride different climbs every day. The village is fully equipped for cycling tourists, with cycling hotels, rentals and excellent facilities.
Located in the heart of the Dolomites, surrounded by some of the world's most iconic mountains, is Cortina d'Ampezzo a perfect base for cyclists. This stylish mountain village, known as "The queen of the Dolomites", combines breathtaking cycling routes with a rich culture and excellent facilities. Here you will find some of Italy's most beautiful and challenging climbs, ranging from steep, challenging cols to rolling valleys with panoramic views.
Climb from here include:
In short: Cortina d'Ampezzo is a paradise for cyclists.
Whatever your choice, cycling in the Dolomites is an unforgettable experience. Whether you attack the magical cols around Bormio, explore the lesser-known but just as tough routes around Bolzano or let yourself go all the way in the Dolomite culture of Corvara, or chic Cortina, the Dolomites is a destination that belongs on every cyclist's bucket list.
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