2020 Northern Italy Cycling Tour - Lakes, Alps and Dolomites

DAY 4 THE EPIC PASSO DELLO STELVIO 6 AUGUST
We will feel the excitement build this morning as we
prepare to ride one of the most epic and iconic climbs in
the world, the Stelvio!
A challenging climb ahead of us we will start our day
driving the short distance over the Passo d’Eira (2208m)
and our ride the final 7km of the (Pass dal Fuorn) to warm
up the legs, before a wonderful descent through Swiss
countryside and to the more famous the classic side of the
Passo dello Stelvio.
The Stelvio is not just a mecca for cyclist, it is also the
highest pass in Italy and one of the highest roads in
Europe. The entire climb is within the limits of the Parco
Nazionale dello Stelvio, Italy’s biggest national park and the
largest protected are in Europe.
Once we reach Trafoi you will be ready to replenish before
your epic assent. Remember our support vehicles will be
strategically positioned all the way up the climb if you wish
to take a breather!
Hotel Bellavista, run by former Olympic skiing champion,
Gustav Thoni, is a great suggested alternative stop (and be
sure to ask for cyclist discount). From Trafoi, the almost
surreal succession of switchbacks heads for the pass,
quickly climbing above the tree line and affording
remarkable views over the surrounding mountains and
glaciers and even the stunning road itself.
At Passo dello Stelvio (2758m) the largest summer ski
area in the Alpes, allows for a celebratory drink or perhaps
a personally printed colour certificate of your achievement
from the Tourism Office including the time you did it in – so
be sure to time yourself from Trafoi!
A filling and very well deserved dinner will be enjoyed by the
group.
RIDE
STAY
5-7 hrs / 80km to 130km / 3000m
Bormio 4* star deluxe chalet