Winter lockdown over: Bormio opens Stelvio and Gavia for racing cyclists

The Stelvio was opened on 22 May, followed by the Gavia on 27 May on the Santa Caterina Valfurva side. Together with the Mortirolo, which is already passable, all three passes that have made Giro d'Italia history are now available.

Stelvio: Ascent from Bormio

At 2,758 metres, the Stelvio reaches the highest point of all paved mountain roads in Italy. From Bormio, 21 hairpin bends lead to the summit in an almost geometric arrangement. The road bears the legacy of Fausto Coppi, who wrote cycling history here.

Gavia: Silent ascent through the national park

The Gavia differs significantly from the Stelvio in terms of character and atmosphere. The 24.8 kilometre route to the 2,652 metre high summit runs through the Stelvio National Park on a narrow, often quiet road. The 1988 Giro stage remains unforgotten: Erik Breukink rode his legendary descent to Bormio in a snowstorm and sub-zero temperatures, while the peloton broke up.

Mortirolo: Steep ramp near Bormio

The Mortirolo does not need extreme altitude to command respect. The 12.5 kilometres from Mazzo speak for themselves: gradients of up to 20 per cent, a merciless average and Marco Pantani's 1994 ride in the collective memory of all cycling fans. The pass is considered one of the toughest in Europe.

Enjoy Stelvio Valtellina: passes without car traffic

Enjoy Stelvio Valtellina closes the major passes in the province of Sondrio to car traffic on selected days from 30 May to 19 September. The free, non-competitive event is dedicated to the Gavia on 5 June and 30 August, the Mortirolo on 9 June and 28 August and the Stelvio on 19 September. The Stelvio can also be ridden on 7 June at Stelvio Santini, from 26 to 28 June at Mogast, on 12 July at Re Stelvio Mapei and on 29 August at Stelvio Bike Day.

Stelvio Epic Rides: Ten climbs over the summer

Stelvio Epic Rides offers ten climbs that can be completed at your own pace throughout the summer. In addition to the three well-known passes, the challenge includes the Strada dei Forni from Santa Caterina Valfurva, the Forcola Pass, the Fumero and the climbs to the Cancano Lakes, the Forte di Oga, Bormio 2000 and the Monte from the Scleva slide. Each ascent has its own landscape and surprises even riders who already know the area.