10 iconic Giro d’Italia cycling climbs

Top 10 Giro d’Italia climbs (by region)

Just want to know the names and locations of the climbs? This section is for you. We’ve listed our top 10 Giro climbs by mountain range. We describe the climbs from the west of Italy to the east and then head south (as only one of our top 10 climbs is outside the northern mountain ranges of the Italian Alps and Dolomites!).

Italian Alps

This incorporates the northern regions of Vall d’Aosta, Piemonte, Liguria and Lombardia.

• Colle del Nivolet, Valle d’Aosta/Piemonte
• Colle delle Finestre, Piemonte
• Passo dello Stelvio, Lombardia
• Passo del Mortirolo, Lombardia
• Passo di Gavia, Lombardia

Dolomites

This incorporates the northern regions of Trentino alto Adige, Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giuli.

• Passo Pordoi, Trentino alto Adige
• Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Veneto
• Monte Grappa, Veneto
• Monte Zoncolan, Friuli Venezia Giuli

Central and Southern Italy

• Blockhaus, Abruzzo

Take a look at our map below to see the locations of these climbs in Italy. Hover over the map pins to see the names of the climbs.

Colle del Nivolet, Valle d’Aosta/Piemonte

Key statistics

• Length: 27km (from Cuorgnè)
• Average gradient: 6%
• Elevation gain: 1,541 metres
• Summit elevation: 2,615 metres

Route notes

The Colle del Nivolet climb starts in Cuorgnè, but the real highlights of the climb start from Noasca. From there, you’re straight into a series of tough hairpins and some leg-sapping 8% gradients (just be thankful you’re no longer in a tunnel for these; the track bypassing the tunnel was only paved a few years ago). The route winds dramatically through rocks and is extremely steep.

From Lago di Ceresole onwards, the gradient is relentlessly brutal, with gradients hitting 12, 13 and even 17%. There’s little respite until you reach Lago Serrù. The views from the dam are spectacular. This is where stage 13 of the 2019 Giro d’Italia stage 13 stopped; it didn’t go further due to logistical reasons and the area’s protected nature reserve status.

The final six-kilometre climb averages 7-8% but feels steeper due to altitude and potential headwinds. The scenery is even more spectacular than in earlier sections. The summit sits in the appropriately named Parco Nationals Gran Paradiso.

Colle del Nivolet in the Giro d’Italia

The Colle del Nivolet appeared in the 2019 edition of the Giro d’Italia; stage 13 concluded at Lago Serrù, just below the summit of the Colle del Nivolet.  Ilnur Zakarin won this stage, showcasing a remarkable solo performance to claim victory on this challenging climb.  The climb’s inclusion in the Giro marked a significant moment, as it’s a notoriously difficult ascent rarely featured in major races. The stage also saw Simon Yates lose significant time to his overall classification rivals.

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Colle delle Finestre, Piemonte

Key statistics

• Length: 18 kilometres (from Susa)
• Average gradient: 9%
• Elevation gain: 1,694 metres
• Summit elevation: 2,178 metres

Route notes

The Colle delle Finestre, in the Piedmont region of northern Italy, is notoriously demanding. The ascent from Susa spans 18.6 kilometres, with an average gradient of 9% and an elevation gain of 1,694 metres. From Susa, the route hits 9% almost straight away and doesn’t let up much all the way to the top.

Notably, the final 8-9 kilometres are unpaved gravel and dirt roads (and unless there’s a race in town, don’t expect well-kept, easygoing gravel!) on gradients that average 9-10%. This adds a unique and brutal element to the climb. It’s a true test of strength and endurance for even the most accomplished cyclists.

Colle delle Finestre in the Giro d’Italia

Despite its relatively short history in the Giro (its first appearance was in 2005), the Colle delle Finestre has been included in multiple editions (2005, 2011, 2015, 2018). It’s due to feature in Stage 20 of the 2025 edition, where it will serve as the Cima Coppi – the highest point of the race.

The Colle delle Finestre has been the site of several dramatic and memorable moments in Giro history.  The gravel sections and steep gradients make it a decisive point in the Giro, often influencing the general classification standings. Most notably, Chris Froome’s stunning solo attack in 2018, launched 80 kilometres from the finish on the gravel section, reshaped the overall race classification.  This audacious move, a rare and significant event in Grand Tour racing, cemented the climb’s place in Giro lore.

Passo dello Stelvio, Lombardia

Key statistics

• Length of climb: 25 kilometres (from Prato)
• Average gradient: 8%
• Elevation gain: 1,812 metres
• Summit elevation: 2,758 metres

Route notes

The Passo dello Stelvio is one of the most iconic climbs in the Giro d’Italia, renowned for its 48 hairpin bends and dramatic alpine scenery.

At 2,758 meters, it’s the highest paved mountain pass in Italy, presenting a formidable challenge for even the most seasoned cyclists.  The climb’s length, steep gradients, and often unpredictable weather conditions make it a true test of endurance and skill.  Both the Bormio and Prato sides offer unique challenges, but the climb from Prato allo Stelvio is particularly famous thanks to those iconic steeply banked hairpins.

For the amateur rider, consider starting early. Due to its popularity and the short summer window, it can be busy with traffic. Also note that the summit area is bustling, with souvenir shops and cafés catering to the many visitors. While the views are impressive, the commercial atmosphere contrasts with the natural beauty of the ascent.

Passo dello Stelvio in the Giro d’Italia

The climb’s history is also steeped in cycling legend. In the 1953 Giro d’Italia, Fausto Coppi attacked on the Stelvio’s slopes, overtaking race leader Hugo Koblet and securing his fifth Giro victory. This moment cemented the Stelvio’s status in cycling folklore.

The climb has been featured in numerous Giro editions, often shaping the overall race outcome.  The unpredictable weather conditions have also led to changes to the race, including cancellations and re-routings.

More information

• Guide to cycling Stelvio region
• Guide to cycling the Stelvio Pass
• Stelvio FAQs

Pass del Mortirolo, Lombardia

Key statistics

• Length of climb: 11 kilometres
• Average gradient: 11%
• Elevation gain:  1,300 metres
• Summit elevation: 1,852 metres

Route notes

The Passo del Mortirolo has a huge reputation and is famed for being one of the most demanding climbs in professional cycling. Stretching approximately 11 kilometres with an average gradient nearing 11%, it challenges even the most seasoned riders. The climb reaches its summit at 1,852 metres, with certain sections presenting gradients up to 18%.

Unlike some of its more scenic counterparts, the Mortirolo’s allure lies in its sheer difficulty and unforgiving gradients, rather than picturesque views. The route is predominantly enveloped by dense woodland, offering limited visual distractions but amplifying the sense of isolation and intensity. The road itself is narrow and winding, a testament to its origins as a mountain path, now paved but retaining its rustic character.

Passo del Mortirolo in the Giro d’Italia

A notable feature of this climb is the monument dedicated to Marco Pantani, situated near the summit. This tribute commemorates his legendary 1994 attack during the Giro d’Italia, when he attacked on the Mortirolo, dropping rivals like Miguel Indurain, securing a stage win and solidifying his legendary status. It’s a moment etched in cycling history. Reaching this point serves as both a physical and emotional milestone for many cyclists.

The climb is so significant that since Pantani’s death in 2004, a special prize is awarded at stages of the Giro that go over the Mortirolo: the “Cima Pantani“ is awarded to the first rider to summit.

More information

• Guide to cycling Passo Mortirolo
• Guide to cycling Bormio region

Passo di Gavia, Lombardia

Key statistics

• Length of climb: 17 kilometres
• Average gradient: 7%
• Elevation gain:  1,340 metres
• Summit elevation:  2,621 metres

Route notes

The Passo di Gavia climb from Ponte di Legno begins gently, with the first five kilometres averaging 6% and offering early mountain views. After Pietra Rossa, the gradient kicks up to around 8.5%, with tight switchbacks winding through steep forest on a narrow road. The most demanding stretch features ramps of up to 16 %.

At around eleven kilometres into the climb, the route opens into a dramatic, high-altitude traverse above the tree line. Note the dark, half-kilometre tunnel – bring lights! The road is narrow and, once above the tree line, it’s very exposed, but with some absolutely mind-boggling views!

Passo di Gavia in the Giro d’Italia

The climb’s high altitude (2,621 meters) and challenging conditions make it a legendary climb. One particularly famous episode was the 1988 stage, infamous for a snow blizzard. Johan Van der Velde, initially leading, was unprepared for the conditions and suffered frostbite on the descent. Andrew Hampsten, better equipped, didn’t quite make the stage win but took the Maglia Rosa, later becoming the first American and non-European Giro winner.

Other notable appearances include various Giro stages where the Gavia’s demanding ascent and often treacherous descents have caused significant time gaps and dramatic shifts in the general classification.

More information

• Guide to cycling Passo di Gavia
• Guide to cycling Bormio region

Passo Pordoi, Trentino alto Adige

 

Key statistics

• Length of climb: 9 kilometres (from Arabba)
• Average gradient: 7%
• Elevation gain: 640 metres
• Summit elevation: 2,239 metres

Route notes

Passo Pordoi is a renowned climb located on the border between Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige. It connects Arabba to Canazei. The ascent from Arabba features 33 hairpin bends over 9.4 kilometres, maintaining a steady gradient of around 6.8%. This allows cyclists to find a comfortable rhythm throughout the climb.

As the route starts at 1,600 metres above sea level, riders quickly rise above the tree line, offering expansive views of the surrounding Dolomite peaks.

Passo Pordoi in the Giro d’Italia

The climb has been a part of the Giro d’Italia numerous times since it first appeared in June 1940. It has been a stage finish four times and served as the Cima Coppi – the highest point of the race – on 13 occasions (source).

The first to pass the summit of the Pordoi Pass was Gino Bartali, in the 1940 edition of the Giro. Copi, riding as a domestique for Gino Bartali, nearly gave up on the climb before Bartali’s encouragement helped him continue. In the three subsequent climbs, Fausto Coppi was the first over the summit.

In the early years of the Giro, the first over the Pordoi could make a huge difference to who won, and the Pordoi’s inclusion in the Giro has consistently provided dramatic moments, solidifying its place as a legendary climb in cycling history. Though not excessively steep, its stunning location in the Dolomites make it a memorable part of the race. A monument to Fausto Coppi stands at the summit, commemorating his achievements in cycling history.

A number of other climbs near the Pordoi were also close contenders for inclusion in our list – the Passo Fedaia and Passo Giau in particular!

More information

• Guide to cycling Passo Pordoi
• Guide to cycling Passo Fedaia
• Guide to cycling Passo Giau
• Guide to cycling the Dolomites

Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Veneto

Key statistics

• Length: 7 kilometres (from Misurina)
• Average gradient: 9%
• Elevation gain: 600 metres
• Summit elevation: 2,362 metres

Route notes

Tre Cime di Lavaredo is one of the most iconic climbs in the Dolomites; it’s not the longest of the Giro climbs, but its renown comes from its leg-breaking gradients and incredible scenery, especially from the summit.

The ascent from Misurina begins with a steep 1.5-kilometre section averaging over 10%, peaking at 18%. After a brief respite near Lake Antorno, the road climbs again to Malga Rin Bianco, leading into the final 4 kilometres that average 12%. Note that the overall average gradient includes a section of descent just before the final 4 kilometre push.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo in the Giro d’Italia

This climb has been featured in the Giro d’Italia seven times, with notable victories by legends such as Eddy Merckx and Vincenzo Nibali. In 1968, Eddy Merckx’s legendary performance solidified his “Cannibal“ moniker. He attacked in the rain, gaining 9 minutes on 16 breakaway riders, winning the stage and securing the Maglia Rosa, which he held until the end of the race. This was considered one of Merckx’s best performances.

Meanwhile, in 2013, Vincenzo Nibali, in the Maglia Rosa, triumphed in snowy conditions, showcasing a remarkable display of strength and securing his first Giro d’Italia victory. He overcame challenges from Colombian riders and Cadel Evans (source).

More information

• Looking for more gentle Dolomites cycling routes? Don’t miss this article.

Monte Grappa, Veneto

Key statistics

• Length: 19 kilometres (from Semonzo)
• Average gradient: 8%
• Elevation gain: 1,560 metres
• Summit elevation: 1,738 metres

Route notes

Monte Grappa is situated in the Veneto region of northeastern Italy. It’s a climb steeped in cycling history and with “killer climb” status.

There are many routes up this mountain, but we focus on the ascent from Semonzo, which spans approximately 19 kilometres, with an average gradient of 8% and sections reaching up to 14%. A series of hairpin bends takes you through dense forests for around 9 kilometres before ramping up as you clear the treeline and on the meadows above. The views gradually open up to reveal panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and it’s worth pausing to take them in (and catch your breath!) before you tackle the final kilometres to the summit.

At the summit, cyclists find the Rifugio Bassano and the Sacrario del Monte Grappa, a war memorial commemorating soldiers who lost their lives during World War I and 2. It’s hard to believe, but Monte Grappa was a key line of defence in those wars.

Monte Grappa in the Giro d’Italia

Monte Grappa has been featured in the Giro d’Italia multiple times; notably, the 2024 Giro featured a double ascent of Monte Grappa in a single stage, adding to its legendary status. It is also due to star in Stage 15 of the 2025 edition.

Other highlights over the years have included Nairo Quintana’s 2014 time trial victory on the climb. Starting last, he beat Fabio Aru by 17 seconds, securing a stage win and a podium finish in that Giro. Another significant appearance involved Vincenzo Nibali in 2010. After summiting from Semonzo, he descended towards Asolo, overtaking rivals Cadel Evans and Michele Scarponi, and winning the stage.

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Monte Zoncolan, Friuli Venezia Giuli

Key statistics

• Length of climb: 10 kilometres
• Average gradient: 12%
• Elevation gain: 1,210 metres
• Summit elevation: 1,735 metres

Route notes

Monte Zoncolan, situated in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of northeastern Italy, is one of (perhaps “the most”?) challenging climbs in professional cycling. The ascent from Ovaro spans approximately 10 kilometres, with an average gradient of 11.9% and sections reaching up to 22%.

The climb begins relatively gently but intensifies significantly after the village of Liariis, where the road enters a dense forest and the gradient increases sharply. You’re looking at gradients around 10-15% for roughly six kilometres! A couple of kilometres from the top are three short tunnels before the final steep ramps leading to the summit. The road is narrow and winding, with limited opportunities for respite, making it a true test of endurance and climbing ability.

Monte Zoncolan in the Giro d’Italia

Monte Zoncolan has been featured multiple times in the Giro d’Italia and its inclusion is always a highlight thanks to those brutal gradients. There have been notable victories by riders such as Gilberto Simoni, Ivan Basso, and Chris Froome. In 2018, Chris Froome’s powerful solo attack showcased his strength, leaving rivals behind. 2014 saw Michael Rogers win a stage after a fan incident involving another rider. The 2011 stage was marked by controversy surrounding climb cancellations, with Igor Antón Hernández ultimately winning.

Often compared with Spain’s Alto de El Angliru, Monte Zoncolan is one for the must-ride list for the avid climbers out there!

More information

• Guide to cycling Friuli Venezia Giuli

Blockhaus, Abruzzo

Key statistics

• Length of climb: 19 kilometres (from Roccamorice)
• Average gradient: 8%
• Elevation gain: 1,532 metres
• Summit elevation: 2,058 metres

Notes

The Madonnina del Blockhaus climb, located in the Majella massif of the Apennines, is an absolute monster that features all the key ingredients for a Giro d’Italia top climb: views, surfaces, altitude and exposure to the elements.

The ascent from Roccamorice is particularly demanding and is the one the Giro took in 2017. The adventure actually starts down in Scafa, but Roccamorice is where the hard climbing begins; after you leave the village you climb for 10 kilometres with gradients hovering around 10%. After that, it’s still seven kilometres of steep, exposed riding to the top. Rifugio Pomilio feels like it should be the end, but it’s not; the road winds around through a series of false summits until you finally reach the summit.

Blockhaus in the Giro d’Italia

The Blockhaus has had a storied history in the Giro d’Italia, first appearing in 1967 when Eddy Merckx secured his first stage victory. The young Merckx launched a surprise attack near the finish, winning the stage and foreshadowing his future Grand Tour dominance.

Other notable instances include Nairo Quintana’s win in 2017, where he showcased his climbing prowess, and Jai Hindley’s success in 2022. The climb’s challenging gradients and location in the Apennine Mountains consistently make it a decisive and memorable feature of the race.

General tips for tackling Giro d’Italia climbs

Taking on the Giro d’Italia’s famous climbs is a challenge many cyclists dream about. But they’re not to be ridden without preparation. Here are some essential tips to help you get ready.

Prepare your bike and gearing

The gradients on these climbs can be brutal. Make sure your gearing is low enough to spin comfortably, especially on long, steep sections. A compact chainset with a wide-range cassette is strongly advised.

Train for sustained efforts

Most climbs in the Giro are long and unrelenting. Focus your training on sustained climbing efforts, improving your endurance and strength for gradients that rarely ease off. Consider some altitude training in advance of your trip.

Dress for changing conditions

The weather in the mountains can shift quickly. Even in summer, when the valley is basking at 30℃, the summit can be cold and windy. Dress in layers and always carry a windproof jacket for descents. Our packing list might be useful.

Start early

Traffic and heat can build up during the day. Starting your ride early helps avoid crowds and gives you cooler conditions for climbing.

Eat and drink regularly

Fuelling is critical. Eat little and often, and make sure you are well hydrated. Water stops are limited on many climbs, so carry plenty of fluids and snacks. There are more tips for fuelling in this article on training for long rides.

Pace yourself

Many of these climbs are long and steep. Going out too hard early can cost you later. Ride within your limits and save energy for the upper slopes.

Know the route

Familiarise yourself with the profile and key landmarks. Knowing when the steeper sections are coming helps you manage your effort and prepare mentally.

For more ways to prepare, check out our tips for cycling in the Alps.

Other useful information for taking on Europe’s most famous cycling climbs

We hope this article has inspired you to take on some of the best Giro d’Italia climbs. Let us know which you have ridden in the comments below and do share any additional tips you have!

For more information on cycling in Italy, head to our Italy hub page. 

• Here you’ll find guides to some of the country’s most famously mountainous regions (we’re looking at you Stelvio region and Dolomites) as well as our article on Mount Etna, which didn’t quite make our list but was very close!
• You’ll also find less vertical options like Friuli Venezia Giuli (except for the Zoncolan!), Sardinia, Tuscany and Puglia.

If you’re interested in mountain cycling climbs in other corners of Europe, we have a wealth of information that can help you plan a cycling trip to ride some (or all of!) these legendary mountain passes. For example…

• Cycling the Pyrenees
• Cycling the Alps
• Cycling the Swiss Alps
• Guide to cycling the Col de la Loze
• Guide to cycling the Trans Pyrenees route
• Watching the Tour de France
• 17 cycling climbs in Europe
• Hardest climbs in the world
• 12 best cycling climbs in Girona Costa Brava
• 8 best cycling routes in Switzerland
• 5 best cycling climbs in Mallorca