BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ROUTE
A very demanding Dolomite stage suitable only for highly trained cyclists who are prepared to stay in the saddle for hours and, above all, ready for high gradients over many consecutive kilometres.
Technical info
A very demanding Dolomite stage suitable only for highly trained cyclists who are prepared to stay in the saddle for hours and, above all, ready for high gradients over many consecutive kilometres.
Two very demanding climbs will be tackled:Passo Tre Croci and Tre Cime di Lavaredo.
We set off from Cortina d’Ampezzo and almost immediately tackle the Tre Croci Pass which, although not extreme, is an interesting appetiser to what is to come later. The climb features hairpin bends up through the woods bordering Monte Cristallo, alternating steeper stretches with easier ones. A short descent to the village of Misurina will take us to the foot of the main climb.
The road to the “Three Peaks” is very steep right from the get-go, with maximum gradients (up to 18%) from the very first kilometre. This is followed by a short descent near Lake Antorno and past the toll barrier (only for cars). The last 4 km represent, along with the Fedaia Pass, the steepest paved road in the Dolomites.
We climb 4 km at an average 12% with peaks of 18%. The wide road causes a strange effect in the cyclist, as he/she struggles immensely without any real points of reference to perceive the extreme gradient. Only the legs and the very low speed tell the truth of the matter.
Once at Rifugio Auronzo, a refuelling break can be taken before descending. Approach the descent with the utmost care as traffic may be heavy and several buses may be encountered.
The way back is easier: we descend to Carbonin/Schluderbach and then climb the easy Cimabanche pass, returning to Cortina on a long and fast descent.
NOTES:
Considering going up by car? If so, please take two factors into account: the last 4.5 km are tolled (car ticket 30€ as at end 2022) and especially in summer the queue of cars waiting to pay can often be very long. The shuttle option might be worth considering.
As an alternative to the main road, a cycle path is available starting from Carbonin/Sclhluderbach, but in making your choice, keep in mind that it is unpaved and could be difficult for road bikes to ride on.
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