How to ride: Passo dello Stelvio

Passo dello Stelvio is a 2785-meter-high mountain that is both breathtaking and unforgiving. The climb from Prato includes no fewer than 48 hairpin bends, and you conquer 1871 meters in altitude with an average gradient of 7.5% over 23 kilometers (about 14.29 mi). It’s one of the toughest, yet most beautiful climbs in Europe. 

The journey starts from Prato, along a river surrounded by towering rocks. The gradient here is manageable, but it remains important not to give it your all right away, as it will get tougher. Once you enter the forest, the climb becomes steeper. Along the way, you'll pass through some lovely villages, and there are several fountains where you can refill your water bottles. 

From bend 24, the landscape changes dramatically as you pass the tree line. Here, breathing becomes a bit harder. You can see the end goal at 7 kilometers, but don’t get overconfident: the last 7 kilometers are the toughest. The steepness, combined with the altitude, can make it feel like you're riding on a "highway to hell." The scenery is beautiful, but by that time, you're often so exhausted that admiring the view is no longer a priority. You’re mostly focused on controlling your breathing. 

At the top of the Stelvio, it's crowded but breathtaking (and not just because of the altitude). You'll find other cyclists to share your pain and achievement with. As proof for later you can have your photo taken on the podium placed on the summit. 

Tips for the journey: 

° Stay well-hydrated. The climb takes between an hour and a half to two hours, so make sure you drink enough. Use the fountains along the route to refill your bottles.

° Zum weissen Knott – This little restaurant is located halfway up the climb and offers a stunning view. It’s a great spot to take a break, have a bite to eat or drink, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

Since the Stelvio climb demands so much from both your body and mind, it’s important to be well-prepared in terms of both training and equipment. A good helmet is indispensable. 

We recommend climbing the Stelvio with a helmet that has good ventilation and is not too weighty, so you can keep your head cool on the toughest parts of the Stelvio. Within Lazer’s range Z1 KinetiCore is best suited for this tough climb.

When is the best time to ride the stelvio? 

The best time to climb the Stelvio is during the summer when you’re most likely to have good weather. If you prefer a less crowded ride, spring and autumn are also options but be aware that the weather can be more unpredictable, and the summit is sometimes closed due to snow. Due to the high altitude, it can also get very cold, so make sure you’re well-prepared and wear the right clothing.

Climbing the Stelvio is no ordinary bike ride; it’s an unforgettable experience that pushes your physical and mental limits. Each bend brings you closer to the summit, where the reward is not just the breathtaking view but also the pride in what you’ve accomplished. Make sure you’re well-prepared, choose the right gear, and enjoy every mile, no matter how tough it gets.