The ascent of the Stelvio Pass from Bormio is one of the most arduous and famous cycling feats. The route measures 21 km with an altitude difference of over 1,500 metres, culminating at the Cima Coppi at 2,758 metres. The route winds along 40 numbered hairpin bends through the spectacular landscapes of the Stelvio National Park, crossing marmots and ibex. It is a true test of endurance and a prestigious goal for any cyclist.

The route runs for 25 km from Bormio to the 2,618-metre summit, with a total altitude difference of 1,400 metres. It starts with moderate gradients, then becomes more arduous after Santa Caterina. The road, narrow and exposed in some places, passes through stunning scenery of woods, pastures and rocks, showing views of the Valle dei Forni and its glacier. On reaching the pass, the panorama of the alpine lakes and the presence of the Madonna delle Vette statue reward the effort. At the summit, the Rifugio Bonetta is a reference point for a rest.

The ascent to the Mortirolo Pass from the Grosio side is a climb of high difficulty that tests both physical and mental endurance. In about 12.5 km of ascent, a difference in altitude of almost 1,200 metres is climbed, going from 716 to 1,856 metres above sea level. The average gradient is over 10%, with stretches going over 18 %, classifying this climb as a real “wall”. Much of the route is immersed in woodland, but the road also winds through meadows and characteristic alpine huts.

The ride offers remarkable views, a pure expression of the Alpine landscape. The climb of medium difficulty starts at Fiordalpe/Turripiano at 1,312 metres and runs for 9.1 kilometres on asphalt to an altitude of 1,946 metres. After a gentle start, the steady gradient encourages an almost meditative pace. At the summit, the passage between the historic Fraele Towers suddenly opens up the view of the spectacular Cancano Lake basin below.

The climb to Bormio 2000 starts in the town centre and runs for 9 km, overcoming an altitude difference of 700 metres. The road, completely asphalted, has constant and regular gradients, drawing wide hairpin bends through the forest. The finish is set at an altitude of 2000 metres, at the well-known ski resort. From the summit, the panorama offers a remarkable view of the valley. The ascent is made famous by the feat of the pink jersey winner Damiano Cunego, who won a stage in the 2004 Giro d'Italia. It is an ideal route for quality training, to test fitness or as a good challenge for cyclists. Several refreshment points are available at the summit.

The climb to Fumero starts from Le Prese near Sondalo and is about 6 km long with an altitude difference of 500 metres. The route, on an asphalted road, has a constant and at times challenging gradient, passing through the village of Frontale and suggestive woods along the way. The finish is in Fumero, at an altitude of 1,486 metres, a quiet place with an impressive panorama of the Upper Valley. Ideal for training, this climb is classified as easy and recommended from May to October.

The ascent to the village of Monte starts from Scleva, after Cepina. The 5.4 km route passes through dense woods, a feature that makes it ideal during hot days. With 490 metres of altitude difference and an average gradient of 9.1 %, the climb has steep and challenging sections. It is a little-used but very rewarding itinerary. Having reached an altitude of 1612 metres, the effort is rewarded with a spectacular view of the Bormio basin and the surrounding peaks.

From the crossroads of Santa Lucia, near Bormio, a climb begins that is a dive into nature and history. The road, with perfect asphalt and a constant gradient, winds its way through the woods with regular hairpin bends, offering magnificent views of the valley. The arrival is at the foot of the imposing Oga fort, a bulwark of the Great War, from which a 360 degree panoramic view opens up. It is a rewarding ascent, ideal for testing the legs in an alpine setting.

The Strada dei Forni, starting in Santa Caterina Valfurva, runs towards the valley of the same name. The route is known to cyclists for its scenic and demanding character, with gradients that represent a considerable physical challenge. The route winds its way through an alpine setting, characterised by views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks.

The ascent to the Forcola Pass represents an impressive connection between Livigno and Switzerland along the so-called “Via dei Ghiacciai” (glacier route). Popular among cyclists in the summer months, the ride has low altitude differences due to the high starting altitude. After crossing the border, a short descent leads into Swiss territory, with the possibility of continuing to the Bernina Pass. Reaching 2,314 metres, this asphalt route is accessible and recommended from June to September.