Tour Type
Explorer
Riding Level
Active
Location
Bormio, Italy
Duration
5 days | 4 nights
Length
25 - 132 km daily
Climb
300 - 4,800 m daily
The Passo dello Stelvio (Stelvio Pass) in the Italian Alps is one of the most famous and mythical roads in the cycling world. Stelvio is for cycling what Everest is for mountain climbing: an iconic place that everyone into the sport knows about and refers to with both familiarity and deep respect.
Escape from the routine of your days and immerse yourself in a fascinating adventure in one of the most important places for cyclists because its history, challenges and great battles. You will have the opportunity to climb the mythical ascent starting in Prato allo Stelvio and be able to do the double ascent to the top, or if you have energy why not try to ride the triple ascent, visiting Switzerland on your way. Wait! That’s not all… be amazed by the spectacular view of the Torre di Fraele switchbacks on the way up to Lago de Cancano.
Cross off one of your bucket list climbs on the famous Mortirolo and Gavia Loop. These two ascents cannot be missed and need to be ridden at least once in your lifetime!
You have two options for lodging. If you are completely focused on training and preparing, Hotel La Genzianella is a possibility. If your main focus is epic cycling AND also relaxing in a luxurious wellness spa, then the Hotel QC Terme Bagni Nuovi is for you!
If you’re looking to challenge yourself with a Gran Fondo experience, our Santini Gran Fondo Stelvio Weekender is the perfect fit.
Make it private
We will meet you at Milan Malpensa Airport in the morning and transport you to our hotel overlooking the beautiful mountains around Bormio. We’ll help you get fitted to your bike, hand out the Grand Tours Project cycle kit, and make final preparations before this afternoon’s ride. A 20 km ride will take us on a tour around the Bormio, to explore the centre as well as test our bikes. Upon returning to our hotel and after discussing the week’s program, we’ll enjoy a hearty Italian dinner.
Bucket list Climb 1 – Passo Stelvio at 2,757 m (2 times or 3 if you´re feeling like a superhero!). There are three routes up to the legendary Passo delle Stelvio and we will start from Bormio, climbing 14 km to the summit. We will then descend down into Switzerland via the Umbrail Pass – the highest paved road in Switzerland – before ascending from the Italian South Tyrolean side.
Once on Stelvio for the second time, we’ll stop for the legendary apple strudel! Before throwing on our cycle layers, take the obligatory photos, and enjoy the long 14 km descent back into Bormio. Remember the GTP van will be close by with extra layers, ride snacks and support!
Today we will have an easier epic ride up to Cancano Lake. From the centre of Bormio, we have around 5 km to warm up before starting the climb, passing through beautiful small villages. The average gradient of the 8.4 km climb is 7.1%. We start with a couple of easy hairpin bends before changing gears to start the real climbing. Be blown away by the view of the switchbacks on the spectacular Torre di Fraele! On reaching the dam wall, stop for a revitalizing coffee and then descend together into Bormio. Once in our hotel, you will have the opportunity to have a well deserved spa time and recover for the next epic day!
We start the day with yet another legendary climb – the Passo Gavia. It is 25.6 km with 1,404 m of elevation and an average of 5.5% – that’s just the warm up! Here we will refuel before descending to the foot of the Mortirolo. The Mortirolo is renowned for its 30+ hairpin bends and narrow road that winds gracefully to the summit, without any respite for the riders. First featured in the 1990 Giro d’Italia, this climb has become a classic due to Pantani’s unforgettable ride in 1994. His ascent time of 42 m 40 s is still a standing record and it’s only fitting that on turn 11 you will find a tribute to the pirate himself! You really will be riding on the roads of a true legend!
*For Santini Gran Fondo Stelvio edition tour in June, today will be the event! Days 2 & 4 will be switched.*
All good things must come to an end. After a final Italian breakfast, with a last look at the spectacular mountains that framed your journey, it’s time to say goodbye. The epic memories of your weekend – of conquering the legendary Stelvio and being a part of a classic Italian gran fondo – are now yours to cherish and share with envious friends and family.
Our team will provide a seamless transfer to Milan Malpensa Airport for your onward journey.
*Please note that an earlier departure can be arranged if needed.
The following is also included:
