Italy is renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, and among its most captivating features are the towering mountain passes that have become synonymous with cycling. These iconic climbs not only offer breathtaking views but also present unique challenges that have tested the endurance and strength of cyclists for generations. From the jagged peaks of the Dolomites to the serene valleys of the Apennines, the mountain passes in Italy are a mecca for cyclists, each seeking to conquer the legendary climbs that have shaped cycling history.
So, if you are a fiend for leg-burning ascents and looking for some inspiration for your next cycling holiday, we've picked out some of the best mountain passes in Italy to tick off your cycling bucket list, including climbs such as the iconic Stelvio, the picturesque Passo Giau, and the challenging Passo di Campolongo.
To add an extra layer of motivation, we've delved into the current Strava records for each pass, allowing you to stake your claim and aim for glory as you tackle these formidable climbs. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a passionate enthusiast, these mountain passes promise not only to challenge your limits but also to reward you with unforgettable experiences amid Italy's breathtaking natural beauty.
Passo dello Stelvio
Distance: 25km (from Prato)
Average gradient: 8%
Maximum gradient: 10.3%
Total ascent: 1,850m
Image by Daniel Hughes
Few cyclists need an introduction to the Stelvio Pass. It’s a bucket-list climb for many, and even if you haven’t conquered this beautiful beast yourself, you’ll probably know someone who has. Its iconic status is no surprise. Located in northern Italy, near the Swiss border, the Stelvio has been featured in the Giro d’Italia 13 times since its debut in 1953, cementing its status as a star of the Giro.
As the second-highest paved pass in the Italian Alps, the Stelvio rises over 1,800 metres to the summit at 2,758 metres above sea level. The climb offers not only spectacular views but also a lung-busting challenge – not just due to its length and gradient, but also the reduced oxygen levels at such a high altitude. That said, the sheer distance and gradient – 25km from Prato at an average of 8% – makes this an almighty test of endurance, requiring serious training and a good level of fitness. Weather conditions can also be unpredictable at the summit, often snowy even in summer, and the pass opens from mid-May to early November. However, the best time to tackle the Stelvio is between June and September, when conditions are typically more favourable. As you ascend, you’ll also encounter the Stelvio’s famed 48 hairpin bends, a feature that makes this climb one of the most photographed in the world.
Most cyclists start the climb from Prato, though it can also be tackled from Bormio. From Prato, you’ll follow the SS38 road all the way to the summit. The first 10 kilometres are relatively steady, with gradients averaging between 5% and 6%, as the road winds through alpine forests. After this point, the climb becomes steeper, with an average gradient of 8%, and the hairpin bends begin to appear in rapid succession. The pine trees give way to an expansive, open landscape where snow-capped peaks dominate the horizon. Higher up, the gradient reaches double digits, with the steepest sections maxing out at 10%. The challenge intensifies after the famous Berghotel Franzenshöhe, a historic mountain hotel perched at 2,188 metres. At this stage, your legs will ache, your energy will wane, and the air will feel thin as you navigate the final bends toward the summit. Although the summit itself is modest, marked by a few shops and cafés, the true reward lies in the challenge and the breathtaking views on the ascent and descent.
As of the time of writing, the fastest recorded ascent on Strava belongs to pro rider Jai Hindley, who set a KOM time of 1:09:41 in October 2020. The QOM time, set by climbing extraordinaire Illi Gardner, stands at 1:22:44, achieved in September 2024.
Passo Giau
Distance: 10km
Average gradient: 9.5%
Maximum gradient: 14.7%
Total ascent: 900 metres
Image by Getty Images
Passo Giau, while relatively young compared to its neighbouring passes, has quickly earned a reputation as one of the most scenic and challenging cycling climbs in the Dolomites. Constructed just 37 years ago in 1986, this mountain pass in the Italian province of Belluno is often described as "the beauty and the beast" of the famous Italian mountain range. With an average gradient of nearly 10%, it is a gruelling test of strength, yet it rewards climbers with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The climb stretches for 10 kilometres, ascending 900 metres to a summit that stands at 2,236 metres above sea level, linking the valleys of Ampezzo and Livinallongo. As you make your way up the pass, the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites dominate the skyline, including the imposing Nuvolau Alto. The jagged, chalky-coloured mountaintops contrast sharply with the lush, green pastures flanking the road. It's no wonder the world-renowned Maratona dles Dolomites, a major sportive, includes Passo Giau as the sixth mountain challenge on its route, with riders tackling the ascent from Selva di Cadore on the south side.
The climb officially begins on the SP638 road, just north of the commune of Selva di Cadore. As you turn onto the route, the road immediately pitches upward, following the Codalonga River. For the first few kilometres, the path winds through fir and spruce forests, but after about seven kilometres, the trees give way to the wide, open pastures that characterise the Italian mountain range. While the breathtaking views might distract you, the relentless gradient will keep you working hard throughout the 10-kilometre ascent. If you need a break during the climb, there are two stopping points with water fountains also along the road. Nearing the summit, you’ll spot wooden buildings that signal you’re almost at the top, where the panoramic views are nothing short of spectacular.
In terms of records, Illi Gardner claimed the women's crown for the Passo Giau in September 2024, completing the climb in just 38:44. Egan Bernal holds the men's record with a time of 32:42.
Passo Pordoi
Distance: 9.2km
Average gradient: 7%
Maximum gradient: 9%
Total ascent: 642 metres
Image by Getty Images
The Passo Pordoi holds legendary status in the Giro d’Italia, having been featured a remarkable 39 times since its debut in 1940. It has served as a key climb on 13 occasions, often regarded as the race’s Cima Coppi or highest point. This prominent role in the Grand Tour has made the Passo Pordoi a must-ride ascent for any cyclist visiting the area. The pass is also part of the famous Sella Ronda route, a scenic loop around the Sella massif, located near the Marmolada, the highest peak in the Dolomites.
Constructed in 1904, the road from Arabba to Canazei in Veneto remains the highest paved road in the Dolomites, with a summit elevation of 2,239 metres above sea level. The Sella Ronda route ascends the Pordoi from the western side of the mountain, starting in Canazei, though this side is predominantly forested. For the best views while climbing the Pordoi, starting from Arabba is recommended, allowing you to navigate the 28 hairpin bends of this iconic ascent.
As you begin in Arabba, head southwest out of town until you reach the official starting point of the climb, marked by a roadside sign. Leaving behind the charming flower-adorned chalets and ski lifts, the road climbs steadily up the mountain’s side. Fortunately, the gradients remain fairly consistent at around 7%, enabling you to settle into a rhythm and fully appreciate the views without excessive exertion. Upon reaching the eight kilometre marker, you’ll find yourself over 2,000 metres above sea level, so the altitude can make the climb feel more challenging at this elevation. The final bend is located about half a kilometre from the summit, where you’ll be greeted by several cafés at the top, perfect for rewarding yourself after your hard efforts.
Two Italians hold the Strava records for this climb: Vincenzo Nibali, who set the men’s record in 2018 with a time of 24:28, and Gaia Realini, who set the women’s record of 29:13 in June 2023.
Passo Sella
Distance: 5km
Average gradient: 7.3%
Maximum gradient: 10.7%
Total ascent: 370 metres
Image by Getty Images
The Passo Sella, a neighbour to the Passo Pordoi, is part of the famous Sella Ronda route in northern Italy, which connects the Val Gardena and Val di Fassa valleys. Ascending from the north, either from Selva di Val Gardena or the junction below the Gardena Pass at Plan de Gralba, the Passo Sella is slightly shorter but steeper than the Pordoi, making it a more intense challenge. You can also climb it from the south, starting in Canazei after tackling the Pordoi. However, if you're following the Sella Ronda Bike Day route, you'll ascend from the south, where views across the valley await. The Passo Sella has also featured in the Giro d’Italia, but it's true allure lies in the dramatic views of the towering Sassolungo massif.
The climb to the summit of Passo Sella is a ride full of contrasts – both physically demanding and visually rewarding. From the northern approach, the ascent challenges riders with its steep gradients, especially in the final kilometres. Despite being shorter than the Passo Pordoi, the relentless incline and tight switchbacks test both endurance and control.
As you ascend, the landscape transforms – the valley floor falls away, revealing sweeping views of alpine meadows, pine forests, and distant jagged peaks of the Sassolungo massif, a towering, craggy formation that seems to follow you as you climb. The road, with its winding hairpins, feels as if it’s carved right into the heart of the Dolomites. While the climb offers little respite, the beauty of the surroundings serves as both a distraction and a reward. Upon reaching the summit, the panoramic views of the Dolomites stretching in every direction makes the effort feel worthwhile.
The current Strava time to beat is 14:02, set by Giulio Pellizzari during Stage 17 of the 2024 Giro d’Italia. The women’s record, set by Giulia Pennacchi in the same year, stands at 15:43.
Passo di Campolongo
Distance: 6km
Average gradient: 5.9%
Maximum gradient: 10.1%
Total ascent: 350 metres
Image by Imberto Isman
The Passo di Campolongo is one of the easier climbs in the Dolomites, sitting at 1,875 metres above sea level – a perfect warm-up for the bigger mountains ahead. This climb serves as an introduction to the Maratona dles Dolomites, where participants of the famous sportive tackle it twice, as both the first and fifth climbs of the day. Even if you're not riding the Maratona, the Passo di Campolongo is still an epic climb to cross off your Dolomites bucket list as it features punchy hairpin bends and manageable gradients, making it both challenging and enjoyable.
The fastest times up the Campolongo have stood the test of time, especially the QOM set by Erica Magnaldi in 2016 with a time of 17:19. The KOM and overall fastest ascent were achieved by Nicola Genuin in 2021, with a time of 14:20.
If you begin the climb in Corvara, you'll tackle a six-kilometre ascent that takes you to the summit before descending into Arabba, at the base of the Passo Pordoi. Corvara, nestled in the Alta Badia region of Italy, is framed by the stunning Sellaronda mountain range, at the foot of the Sassongher mountain. From this charming ski town, you'll head south, gradually winding your way through the Alta Badia valley. The route is a classic Dolomites climb, with numerous switchbacks cutting through the verdant landscape.
In the first third of the climb, the switchbacks come thick and fast, offering a series of sharp turns. As you approach the Alta Badia Golf Club, the snaking turns give way to a steady, straight road leading to the summit. Unlike some of its neighbouring climbs, the Passo di Campolongo doesn't offer expansive panoramic views at the top. Instead, you'll find picturesque mountain meadows and timber-built chalets. However, the descent more than makes up for this, with breathtaking views that unfold as you wind your way down – so take a moment to savour the scenery.
Gran Sasso d'Italia
Distance: 40.2km
Average gradient: 4.1%
Maximum gradient: 10.2%
Total ascent: 1,660 metres
Image by Getty Images
The Gran Sasso d'Italia, also known as the Great Rock of Italy, is located in the Apennine Mountains within the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park. This formidable climb has featured in the Giro d'Italia on numerous occasions, most recently in 2024, when riders tackled a 73.9km route from Calascio that included this magnificent ascent. The entire climb stretches for 40km from Bazzano, with an average gradient of 4.1%. While the gradients may not be the steepest in Italy, it is certainly a climb that will test your stamina. For those who wish to conquer the Gran Sasso but find the thought of a 40km ascent daunting, there’s an alternative route from Lago Racollo, which is considerably shorter at 13.2km, featuring an average gradient of 4.4%.
Starting in Bazzano, the road winds through picturesque landscapes as you leave the village behind. The initial kilometres are relatively gentle, allowing you to warm up as you pass through verdant hills and fields dotted with rustic farmhouses. The charm of the Italian countryside surrounds you, with olive groves and vineyards lining the route. As you progress, the road begins to steepen, and the real challenge unfolds. The gradients increase, and the terrain becomes more rugged.
The route is often shaded by towering trees, providing respite from the sun, but as you near the higher elevations, the landscape transforms dramatically. The lush greenery gives way to rocky outcrops and alpine meadows, and the air becomes crisper and cooler. The final stretch of the climb is particularly steep, requiring determination and focus as you navigate the increasingly challenging terrain. But upon reaching the summit of Gran Sasso, the effort is richly rewarded. The panoramic views from the top are incredible, with sweeping vistas of the Apennine mountains stretching out in every direction. On a clear day, you can see the rolling hills and valleys far below, as well as the majestic peaks of the surrounding ranges.
The KOM from Font Cerreto-Campo Imperatore – a 25.8km segment on Strava to the summit of Gran Sasso – is held by Jai Hindley with a record-setting time of 57:42 from 2017. And the time to beat for the female riders is 1:21:16.
*Cover image by Getty Images
