The Ultimate Guide to Cycling the Dolomites

The Dolomites are, without exaggeration, one of the most epic cycling destinations on the planet.

Cyclists come here for the legendary Giro d’Italia passes, the razor-cut limestone peaks, the perfect tangle of switchbacks, and the unmistakable Alpine-meets-Italian atmosphere that makes every ride unforgettable.

In this Ultimate Guide to Cycling in the Dolomites, you’ll get everything you need to plan your dream cycling trip:

• when to go

• top cycling routes and climbs

• suggested itineraries

• best cycling events

• must-see places

• how to get there

• and much, much more!

Overview of the Dolomites

The Dolomites are a remarkable mountain region in northeastern Italy, part of the Southern Limestone Alps and protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their dramatic geology.

Spread across three regions, South Tyrol, Trentino, and Veneto, the Dolomites are not a single continuous chain but a constellation of several distinct mountain groups — the Sella, Marmolada, Tre Cime, Rosengarten, Pale di San Martino, and others — each rising sharply from deep valleys and creating the iconic landscapes the region is famous for.

Towering limestone spires, vertical cliffs, glowing pale rock, and high alpine meadows come together to form one of Europe’s most visually striking mountain environments.

A Glimpse into Cycling in the Dolomites

For cyclists, these geographical and geological characteristics define the entire riding experience. Because the mountains rise so abruptly from the valleys, many climbs begin almost the moment you leave town, offering little warm-up and lots of immediate elevation.

Most major passes sit between 1,800 and 2,400 metres, which means riders will experience significant altitude changes on every route, along with quick shifts in weather and temperature as they climb.

What to expect in short:

• Steep gradients and rapid elevation gain right from the valley floor

• Iconic switchbacks engineered with smooth, predictable curves

• Beautifully surfaced mountain roads ideal for both climbing and descending

• High-altitude passes with cooler temperatures and dramatic open views

• Constant landscape changes — forests, meadows, rock towers — all in a single ride

Compared to other famous cycling regions:

• vs. French Alps: Dolomites are steeper, punchier, and visually more dramatic.

• vs. Pyrenees: Higher elevation, more varied landscapes, less remote but more structured tourism.

• vs. Swiss Alps: More rugged and raw, with far more Giro-famous climbs.

This combination — density of climbs, beauty, accessibility, and culture — is why many cyclists consider the Dolomites the most spectacular cycling playground in Europe.

When to Go

The Dolomites have a true high-mountain climate, with warm clear summers, crisp shoulder seasons, and snowy winters. Because most iconic passes sit between 1,800–2,400 metres, the cycling season here is shorter — but the mid-season conditions are nothing short of spectacular.

Seasons at a Glance:

• Late May–June: Start of the cycling season — high passes might still be closed due to snow

• July–August: Peak season with fully open passes

• September–October: Ideal late-season window

• November–April: High passes are snow-covered and cycling isn’t possible

Below is an overview of what to expect in each season so you can plan your Dolomites cycling experience with confidence.

Spring (Late May–June)

Spring arrives late in the Dolomites. Early spring still feels like winter at altitude, but late spring marks the true start of the cycling season. As snow melts through May, the major passes typically begin reopening from late May into early July, depending on snowfall and weather conditions.

Temperatures: 12–22°C in the valleys; 5–15°C at the summits

Best for: Cyclists wanting quieter roads and fresh, clear mountain air

Why ride in late spring:

• Many high passes become rideable, often with minimal traffic

• Ideal temperatures for long, sustained climbs

• Crisp air and excellent visibility for panoramic views

• Lush green meadows and vibrant early-season landscapes

Good to know:

• Exact pass-opening dates vary yearly

• Snow walls may still line the higher roads — spectacular but chilly

• Summit cafés and rifugi may open later in the month

Did you plan to visit Italy in the spring? Consider cycling in southern regions, like Tuscany, Puglia or Sicily & Sardinia, which offer perfect riding conditions this time of the year.

Summer (July–August)

Summer offers the most stable riding conditions and open mountain passes.

All Giro d’Italia passes are open, the roads are clear, and the entire region buzzes with cycling energy. Expect cooler temperatures at altitude even on warm valley days, making climbs comfortable and descents refreshing.

Temperatures: 18–28°C in the valleys; 10–18°C at the summits

Best for: Riders wanting complete access to every legendary pass

Good to know:

• Afternoon thunderstorms are possible in July–August

• Summit temperatures stay pleasantly cool

• Expect more tourists on major passes, especially mid-day

• Shoulder weeks (early July and late August) are often ideal

Tip:

If you're cycling during peak summer and prefer cooler roads and fewer people, aim for early morning climbs or plan rides in less tourist-heavy valleys.

Autumn (September–October)

Autumn is often considered the most beautiful time to cycle the Dolomites. The air turns crisp, traffic drops significantly, and the limestone peaks glow gold in the autumn light. September offers stable, warm riding conditions, while October can be magnificent — though snow or early pass closures become increasingly possible.

Temperatures: 10–20°C in September; 5–15°C in October

Best for: Riders seeking quieter roads, dramatic light, and comfortable climbing temperatures

Why ride in autumn:

• Calm, stable weather and excellent visibility

• Brilliant autumn colours and atmospheric scenery

• Perfect conditions for photography and relaxed descents

• Fewer crowds and more peaceful passes

Good to know:

• Some services begin reducing hours from mid-October

• A single snowfall can temporarily close a high pass

• Best to check conditions daily later in the season

If you decide to cycle the Dolomites in summer, you’ll encounter other active adventures - this region is highly popular among hikers. If you’d like to throw in some hiking days into your itinerary, our hiking tours in the Dolomites are a great for inspiration. Or even better, send us a message and we can recommend the perfect hike to fit your schedule.

Winter (November–April)

Winter transforms the Dolomites into a world-class ski destination — and a non-cycling season. High passes are closed, valley roads are cold and often icy, and conditions are not suitable for road cycling.

If you’re dreaming of a winter cycling escape, we recommend exploring our warm-weather tours in Spain, Portugal, and the Canary Islands, where conditions remain ideal year-round.

Top Cycling Climbs

The Dolomites are home to some of the most exhilarating and iconic climbs in the world — a playground of perfectly engineered switchbacks, smooth tarmac, and dramatic high-mountain scenery.

Giro d’Italia legends rise here in rapid succession, allowing riders to link multiple famous passes in a single tour. From long, steady ascents to short, steep lung-burners, each pass offers its own blend of challenge, beauty, and unforgettable views.
Here are our favorite climbs in the Dolomites:

(AMENITIES Giao, Gavia, Stelvio, Sella, Gardena, Timm….)

Best cycling routes

1. The Cortina Loop Challenge

A stunning introduction to Dolomite riding, this loop starts and ends in Cortina d’Ampezzo, circling through dramatic valleys and rugged alpine scenery. It’s a perfect first taste of the region: challenging, spectacular, and full of classic Dolomites character.

What to Expect

• A varied route mixing steady climbs, rolling sections, and alpine viewpoints

• Beautiful views of the Tofane and Cristallo massifs

• A great warm-up for the bigger passes ahead

• Scenic riding without extreme gradients on the first day

Best For

• Intermediate to advanced cyclists

• Riders wanting an “appetizer” before the major passes

• Anyone looking for a memorable but manageable introduction to Dolomite riding

This route is featured in The Ultimate Dolomites Bike Tour and Epic e-Bike Tour (if you prefer a more relaxed cycling), setting the tone for an unforgettable week of world-class cycling.

2. Passo Giau & Passo Falzarego Loop

A legendary Dolomite combination and one of the most dramatic rides you can do. Passo Giau delivers long, steep, uninterrupted climbing, while Falzarego offers high-mountain views and a smoother ascent. Together they form a powerful, unforgettable loop.

What to Expect

• One of the steepest iconic climbs in the Dolomites (Giau)

• A panoramic, flowing ascent toward Passo Falzarego

• Spectacular summit views, perfect for photos

• A true queen-stage ride that challenges even strong cyclists

Best For

• Strong, experienced riders

• Cyclists chasing the Dolomites’ most iconic views

• Riders comfortable with sustained steep gradients

You will ride this monumental loop on Day 3 of The Ultimate Dolomites Bike Tour, one of the highlight stages of the entire journey.

3. Passo Fedaia, Falzarego & the Marmolada Route

A rugged, dramatic, high-alpine ride that takes you beneath the mighty Marmolada Glacier. Passo Fedaia is known for its punishing final ramps, wild scenery, and stunning summit lake, while Falzarego provides a more rhythmic, scenic climb to round out the day.

What to Expect:

• Challenging gradients, especially the final Fedaia hairpins

• Expansive views of the Marmolada Glacier and Lago di Fedaia

• A mix of remote-feeling terrain and iconic Dolomite passes

• A hard but incredibly rewarding day in the saddle

Best For:

• Advanced climbers

• Riders wanting maximum mountain drama

• Cyclists seeking quieter, less tourist-heavy climbs

This impressive combination appears on Day 4 of The Ultimate Dolomites Bike Tour, offering one of the most dramatic summit views of the entire week.

4. The Sellaronda Classic

The most iconic loop in the Dolomites — four legendary passes linked together in one flawless circuit: Campolongo, Pordoi, Sella, and Gardena. Smooth switchbacks, perfect gradients, and 360° mountain panoramas make this one of the world’s great cycling experiences.

What to Expect:

• Four passes in one continuous, beautifully engineered loop

• Breathtaking views of the Sella Massif from every angle

• Flowing descents and predictable switchbacks

• One of the most rewarding rides a cyclist can do

Best For:

• Intermediate to advanced cyclists

• Riders looking for an iconic, bucket-list ride

• Anyone wanting the quintessential Dolomites experience

This legendary loop forms Day 5 of The Ultimate Dolomites Bike Tour, often described by riders as the single best day of the trip.

If you’d like to explore all of these stunning routes in one unforgettable journey, we’ve combined them into one grand tour of the Dolomites.

5. Passo Stelvio

The undisputed king of the Alps — a legendary ascent with 48 hairpins, high-alpine moonscapes, and one of the most iconic summit finishes in cycling. At 2,757 meters, Stelvio is a rite of passage for every serious rider.

What to Expect:

• Endless hairpins and a world-famous serpentine climb

• Consistent gradients that reward rhythm and pacing

• Dramatic high-alpine terrain and sweeping valley views

• A summit that feels like standing on the roof of Europe

Best For:

• Strong, experienced climbers

• Cyclists chasing a true bucket-list ascent

• Anyone wanting to ride one of the most iconic passes in the world

This legendary climb defines Day 2 of the Alpine Pass Challenge Tour, delivering one of the most thrilling and memorable rides you’ll ever experience.

6. Passo Gavia

Wild, rugged, remote — Passo Gavia is one of the most atmospheric climbs in Italy. With steep ramps, narrow roads, and dramatic scenery, it offers a deeper, more intimate alpine experience compared to Stelvio’s grandeur.

What to Expect:

• Quiet, narrow mountain roads under towering rock walls

• A mix of steep pitches, forest segments, and alpine meadows

• Lago Nero and the summit refuge as a reward at the top

• A Giro d’Italia classic with a storied past

Best For:

• Advanced riders seeking raw, untouched mountain landscapes

• Cyclists who enjoy technical climbing and wild terrain

• Anyone wanting to experience the Alps beyond the famous icons

This unforgettable ascent is the centerpiece of Day 3 of the Alpine Pass Challenge Tour, offering one of the most dramatic settings of the entire trip.

Suggested Itineraries

1. The Ultimate Dolomites Bike Tour

Passo Gardena – Passo Sella – Passo Pordoi – Passo Campolongo

Ride the most iconic loop in the Dolomites: four legendary passes linked together in a perfectly designed circuit around the majestic Sella Massif. Constant viewpoints, smooth switchbacks, and stunning summit panoramas make this a true bucket-list experience.

Who Is It For?

• Intermediate to advanced cyclists

• Riders who enjoy steady, sustained climbing

• Anyone wanting to experience the essential Dolomites route

• Great as a highlight day or centerpiece of any cycling holiday

Types of Bikes: Great for road, touring, e-bike cycling

Suggested Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Cortina

Day 2: The Cortina Loop Challenge

Day 3: Conquering Passo Giau and Passo Falzarego

Day 4: Confronting Passo Fedaia and Revisiting Falzarego

Day 5: The Sellaronda Classic

Day 6: Passo Rolle, Passo San Pellegrino, Passo Valles

Day 7: Passo delle Erbe, Passo Sella, and Gardena

Day 8: Departure

Sounds like your type of ride? We've captured this iconic grand loop is captured in one epic ride:

2. Alpine Pass Challenge

Stelvio – Gavia – Cancano – Mortirolo (optional)

Ride four of the most legendary climbs in the Italian Alps — including the iconic Stelvio, the wild and dramatic Gavia, the hairpin-perfect Laghi di Cancano, and the notoriously steep Mortirolo. This is a concentrated, high-altitude challenge designed for riders who want to experience the raw power and grandeur of the Alps in just a few unforgettable days.

Who Is It For?

• Intermediate to advanced climbers

• Cyclists who love big passes, big elevation, and big rewards

• Riders seeking an intense high-Alpine experience

• Anyone wanting to conquer Italy’s most iconic non-Dolomites climbs

• Perfect as a standalone trip or as an add-on to a Dolomites cycling holiday

Types of Bikes: Great for road, touring, e-bike cycling

Suggested Itinerary:

Day 1: Laghi di Cancano

Day 2: Passo Stelvio

Day 3: Passo Gavia

Day 4: Departure

Day 5 (Optional): Mortirolo — Extra Challenge Day

Ready to go? This iconic Alpine trilogy — with the option of the fearsome Mortirolo — is captured in one epic ride:

3. Epic E-Bike Cycling in the Dolomites

Longarone – Cortina – Alta Badia – Predazzo – Valsugana – Bassano del Grappa

Ride one of the most scenic cycling journeys in northern Italy — a point-to-point adventure that starts beneath the dramatic Dolomites and finishes in the historic town of Bassano del Grappa. This E-bike–friendly route blends mountain panoramas, charming valleys, forest roads, and lake-side paths, giving you a wonderfully varied experience across three distinct regions: the Dolomites, Trentino, and Veneto.

Who Is It For?

• Leisure to intermediate riders who want a spectacular but approachable cycling vacation

• Cyclists who prefer varied landscapes rather than only big climbs

• Riders who enjoy a journey-style route with new scenery every day

• E-bike travelers looking for a smooth, scenic crossing through northern Italy

• Anyone wanting a less intense alternative to the big-pass road cycling tours

• Ideal for riders who love scenery, culture, and completing a meaningful A→B adventure.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Longarone

Day 2: Longarone → Cortina

Day 3: Cortina Loop

Day 4: Cortina → Alta Badia

Day 5: Alta Badia → Predazzo

Day 6: Predazzo → Torcegno

Day 7: Torcegno → Bassano del Grappa

Day 8: Departure

Want to explore the Dolomites by e-bike? This beautifully crafted point-to-point journey showcases the Dolomites, Trentino forests, and Veneto’s historic towns — all designed for easy, enjoyable riding on an E-bike.

Must-See Places

The Dolomites are packed with natural and cultural highlights that add depth to any cycling trip — from iconic passes and panoramic viewpoints to turquoise lakes, alpine villages, and UNESCO-listed landscapes.

Below you’ll find the essential places worth visiting along or near your routes.

Many of the region’s most spectacular viewpoints are only accessible on foot. If you’d like to combine your cycling holiday with a short hike or a hut-to-hut extension, we can easily arrange it. Simply send an inquiry and let us know your preferences.

Cycling Infrastructure

Few mountain regions in Europe are as cyclist-friendly as the Dolomites. Decades of hosting the Giro, granfondos, and cycling tourism have shaped the area into a highly supportive environment for riders.

What makes cycling here especially smooth:

Bike-Friendly Accommodation

Many hotels and guesthouses offer:

• Secure bike storage rooms

• Basic maintenance tools and pumps

• Cleaning stations

• Laundry service for cycling kits

• Early breakfasts and carb-focused meals

Hotels usually offer locked bike room and basic maintenance tools

Reliable Road Quality

• Most passes are resurfaced regularly because they’re Giro stages or major transport routes.

• Clear signage, good drainage, and wide hairpins make descending safer and more enjoyable.

Access to Multiple Passes from One Base

Whether you stay in Alta Badia, Val Gardena, Cortina, Arabba, San Martino, or Val di Fassa, you’re usually:

• Within riding distance of several major passes

• Able to link loops without transfers

• Surrounded by well-marked cycling routes

Cycling Events

The Dolomites host some of the most celebrated cycling events in Europe, attracting riders from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for a major challenge, a car-free mountain experience, or a more relaxed community ride, the region offers events for every type of cyclist throughout the season.

These are the most popular ones:

1. Giro d’Italia – Dolomites Stages

Type: Professional WorldTour race (pros only)

When: Every May (3-week race; Dolomites stages vary each year)

What Defines It:

The Giro d’Italia is Italy’s biggest cycling event — one of the three Grand Tours alongside the Tour de France and Vuelta a España. Many of the race’s most iconic and decisive mountain stages take place in the Dolomites, featuring dramatic climbs, historic summit finishes, and unforgettable scenery.

Typical Dolomite Climbs Featured:

• Passo Giau

• Tre Cime di Lavaredo

• Passo Fedaia (Marmolada)

• Passo Pordoi

• Passo Sella & Gardena

• Passo Falzarego & Valparola

Why It’s Special:

• Home to some of the most famous climbing battles in Giro history

• Brutal gradients and extreme weather possibilities (snow is common!)

• Massive crowds on the road and electric atmosphere

• Inspires many cyclists to ride the same passes

Who Can Join: Pros only race

Amateur? Don't worry. You can challenge yourself on these tours:

2. Maratona dles Dolomites – Enel

Type: Public granfondo (open to all amateur riders via lottery)

When: Early July

Distance Options:

• Maratona Course: ~138 km, ~4,230 m climbing

• Middle Course: ~106 km, ~3,130 m climbing

• Sellaronda Course: ~55 km, ~1,780 m climbing

What Defines It:

One of the most prestigious amateur cycling events in the world. Riders tackle several legendary passes — Campolongo, Pordoi, Sella, Gardena, Giau, Valparola — all in one day. Around 9,000 participants are selected from tens of thousands of lottery applications.

Who Can Join:

• Amateur cyclists (lottery entry required).

• Not a professional race.

3. Sellaronda Bike Day

Type: Recreational event (open to all — not a race)

When: Two dates each year (June + September)

Distance: ~52–58 km, ~1,600–1,700 m climbing

What Defines It:

A beloved car-free cycling day where the four Sella passes — Campolongo, Pordoi, Sella, Gardena — are completely closed to motor traffic. Thousands of cyclists of every level join with road bikes, MTBs, gravel bikes, and e-bikes.

Who Can Join:

• Everyone — families, amateurs, e-bikers, road cyclists.

• Zero competition. No registration fee in most years.

You can combine the Sellaronda cycling route with other awesome trails in this week-long cycling holiday.

3. Dolomites Bike Day

Type: Recreational, car-free cycling event (open to all)

When: June

Distance: ~51 km, ~1,290 m climbing (approx.)

What Defines It:

Another popular car-free event that closes several historic passes to traffic, including Passo Falzarego, Passo Valparola, and Passo Campolongo. The route touches some of the most scenic roads between Alta Badia, Livinallongo, and Cortina.

Who Can Join:

• All cyclists — road bikers, e-bikers, families.

• Not a race.

How to Get To/From the Dolomites

Reaching the Dolomites is straightforward thanks to several nearby international airports, reliable public transport, and well-maintained Alpine roads. Below is a quick overview to help travelers plan their arrival and departure smoothly.

Best Base Towns

These are the main cycling hubs in the Dolomites:

• Cortina d’Ampezzo

• Alta Badia (Corvara / La Villa / Badia)

• Predazzo

• Longarone

• Bassano del Grappa

Closest International Airports

These airports offer the best connections to the Dolomites, depending on your starting point:

1. Venice Marco Polo (VCE)

• 1.5–2.5 hours to Cortina, Longarone, Alta Badia

• Best for most eastern and central Dolomites

2. Treviso (TSF)

• 2–2.5 hours to Cortina

• Popular for low-cost flights

3. Innsbruck (INN), Austria

• 2 hours to Alta Badia

• Excellent option for northern Dolomites and cross-border trips

4. Verona (VRN)

• 2.5–3 hours to Val di Fiemme, Val di Fassa, Predazzo

• Best for western and central Dolomites

5. Milan Bergamo (BGY)

• 3–4 hours to western and central DOlomites (Alta Badia, Croatia d’Ampezzo, Val di Fassa)

• Ideal for combining Dolomites with the Alps (Stelvio, Gavia, Mortirolo)

Public Transport Overview

Public transport in the Dolomites is reliable but varies by valley. Here are the key options and providers to help you plan your transfers smoothly.

By Train

Major railway hubs near the Dolomites:

• Calalzo–Pieve di Cadore – for Cortina (connected by Cortina Express)

• Bolzano/Bozen – gateway to Val Gardena & Alta Badia

• Trento – access point for Val di Fiemme & Valsugana

• Belluno – closest to Longarone & eastern Dolomites

Timetables and get tickets: Trenitalia – Italy’s national rail network

Important: Trains do not reach high-altitude towns — final travel is always by bus or private transfer.

Regional train at a station used as a gateway to the Dolomites

By Bus

Main bus providers in the Dolomites:

• Cortina Express – Venice ↔ Cortina (seasonal airport + city connections)

• ATVO – Venice Marco Polo & Treviso airport shuttles to the Dolomites

• Dolomiti Bus – Cadore, Belluno, Longarone, Cortina region

• SAD (South Tyrol Transport) – Val Gardena, Alta Badia, Val Pusteria, Bolzano

Good to know:

• Direct airport shuttles run seasonally from Venice & Treviso to Cortina.

• Local valley buses can be infrequent outside summer.

• Many cyclists prefer private transfers for time efficiency and bike handling.

By Car

• The most flexible way to travel between Dolomite valleys.

• Useful if combining Cortina, Alta Badia, Val di Fassa, or Trentino in one trip.

• Parking in high season can be limited in popular towns.

Important:

Many high passes (Giau, Fedaia, Sella, Gardena, Falzarego) may close from November to May depending on snowfall.

Ride the Dolomites with a Fully Prepared Itinerary

Planning a cycling trip in the Dolomites is possible on your own — but the region’s maze of high passes, remote valleys, and steep mountain roads can make logistics challenging.

That’s where we come in.

Best Cycling Tours

We provide:

• Handpicked, cyclist-friendly accommodation

• A detailed digital guidebook with daily notes

• GPS tracks for every stage

• Luggage transfers between bases

• Local tips, highlights, and hidden gems along your route

• Full support before and during your trip

Send us an inquiry and we’ll help you plan the perfect cycling holiday in the Dolomites.