Val di Fassa: Dolomite dream for racing bikes and gravel

Road bike classic with guaranteed panoramic views

The valley offers four pass roads that command the respect of even experienced cyclists and together form the legendary Sellaronda:

• Sella Pass or Passo Sella
• Pordoi Pass or Passo Pordoi
• Compolongo Pass or Passo Compolongo
• Gardena Pass or Gardena Pass

Exactly how long the route is and how many metres in altitude it has depends entirely on the starting point. The "Sellaronda Bike Day", which closes the roads completely to motorised traffic twice a year, is particularly attractive. If you start the tour in Selva di Val Gardena and cycle anti-clockwise, you will end up with 53 kilometres and 1650 metres of altitude on your bike computer.

The challenging ascent to Passo San Pellegrino beckons for even more metres in altitude. The reward: a breathtaking view of the Marmolada, the highest peak in the Dolomites.

Gravel adventures off the tarmac

What the Val di Fassa It is a playground for both worlds. Gravel bikers will find a dense network of well-maintained forest tracks and old military roads from the First World War. The "Panorama Route" from Canazei over the Passo Costalunga offers 40 kilometres of the finest gravel fun with spectacular views of the Catinaccio group.

A highlight for the adventurous: the ascent to Rifugio Contrin (2,016 m) via the old military road - technically not overly demanding, but with a gradient that pushes even wider tyres to their limits.

Practical tips

The best time to visit is between June and September. In high summer, an early start is recommended to avoid the midday heat and tourist traffic. Canazei or Moena are ideal as a base camp, with numerous bike-friendly accommodation options. Canazei is a perfect starting point for setting off on the Sella Ronda.

The pass roads are well tarmaced, but you'd better bring a climbing gear - the long climbs challenge even trained calves. We have described how to prepare for mountain biking here.

Culinary highlight after the tour: a stop at one of the numerous mountain huts for a portion of "Canederli" (Tyrolean dumplings) and local wine is a must in Val di Fassa.

Whether on tarmac or gravel - the Val di Fassa offers the perfect route for every taste, embedded in one of the most impressive mountain backdrops in Europe. Here, sporting challenge and scenic enjoyment merge into an unforgettable cycling experience.