Stelvio, cycling's magnificent monster is back in the Giro
Three years after a torrid snowstorm wreaked havoc on the descending peloton, Italy’s cycling classic returned to one of its most fabled locations in 2017 and 2020. Yes, for the first time since the controversy-plagued 2014 race, the Passo dello Stelvio was back in the Giro d’Italia.
Considered among the greatest passes in the world, Passo dello Stelvio was designed by Italian engineer Carlo Donegani, and it took 2,500 men to build the Stelvio over five years. The pass opened in the 1820s as a way for Austria’s Franz Joseph I to travel from Vienna to Milan. Since World War One the pass remains closed in winter.
Test yourself to the full on the famous Granfondo Stelvio Santini course
Fancy yourself as a bit of a mountaineer when it comes to road cycling? Why not take on the climb Lance Armstrong famously described as the hardest he has ridden. The Granfondo Stelvio Santini not only offers the chance to tackle the notoriously difficult Mortirolo pass, but also the Stelvio pass, both of which are considered among the toughest ascents in cycling.
Il Giro d’Italia inspires road cycling adventure in the Italian Alps
If ever there’s a time to be inspired to pack your bike, fold the lycra and head to Europe for some amazing cycling in the Italian Alps it’s now, as Il Giro d’Italia begins in earnest.
Described as the toughest race in the world, Il Giro is also a celebration of Italy’s people, culture and terrain. There’s no better way than to embrace all that the country has to offer, than by clipping in and embarking on your own personal tour.
At once beautiful and brutal, the world’s elite cyclists traverse the diverse terrain that punctuates the beautiful countryside.
Peaks of gastronomy
Peaks of Gastronomy is the appetizing summer initiative in Alta Badia – in the heart of the Dolomites. It is the winning combination of enjoyable walking in the fresh, healthy air and the pleasures of delicious food and wine.
in 2016 Peaks of Gastronomy was dedicated to the Giro d’Italia, the famous bicycle race held in Italy every spring; 2016 queen stage was in Alta Badia when it reached Corvara after a 210 km long stage along some of the most challenging Dolomites pass roads.