15-20 July 2027
Deposit €299
Bring a non-cycling companion for €699
To stay for a shorter or longer amount of time, please contact us
A challenging cycling holiday in the Italian Alps, covering the best Italian climbs in the history of cycling.
These legendary ascents are famous worldwide and promise an unforgettable sense of achievement once you reach the summit.
On this epic journey, you will conquer iconic climbs like Stelvio, Gavia, Mortirolo, Cancano, and Foscagno — each offering unique challenges, breathtaking scenery, and a true test of endurance and skill.
DAYS RIDING: 5 days
TOTAL DISTANCE: 380 km
LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced
One of the most feared and revered climbs in all of Italy, the Passo del Mortirolo is a true test for any cyclist. Often referred to as the “most brutal climb of the Giro d’Italia”, it rises relentlessly for 10.5 km with an average gradient of over 10% — and ramps that hit a leg-burning 18%. This climb demands respect. It’s not just the gradient, but the way it never lets up — switchback after switchback through dense forest, with barely a moment to recover. It’s steep, narrow, and raw. But reaching the summit is an unforgettable achievement. At the top, you’ll find a monument to Marco Pantani, the legendary climber who made the Mortirolo famous with his explosive attacks. If you love a challenge, this is one of the greatest you’ll ever face on a bike — and one you’ll never forget.
After breakfast, we set off for a rewarding morning ride to the Lago di Cancano, a hidden gem nestled high above Bormio.
The climb to Cancano is scenic and steady, featuring a stunning series of hairpin bends carved into the mountainside and offering sweeping views of the valley below. Unlike the more famous passes, Cancano is peaceful and less trafficked — making it a favorite among locals.
After the ride, we head to the airport for your return flight. See you next time! 🙂
We have selected the best locations and hotels with bike facilities to ensure that our customers have the best experience possible
There are many options available, depending on your measures and budget we work with you to find the best bike for you. From standard mechanical groupset and alloy wheels to electric shifting and carbon wheels.
Road E-bikes are also available.
Professionals, with many years of experience.
Founder & Head Coach
Since founding Cigala Cycling Travel in 2015, Matteo has been leading over 10 tours per year. A former pro and current amateur racer, Matteo is the 2022 European Champion Gran Fondo.
Tour Guide Leader
A former pro cyclist, Amedeo is a cycling tour guide for a decade. It is one of the most experience guides that you will ever find, counting almost over 1000 days on tours.
Finally, Amedeo is a qualified massage therapist.
You’re welcome to bring your own bike, or rent one for the week. After booking, you will receive a form to fill out via email. You can let us know there and in the case you want to rent, you will see an option to fill up details for your measurements.
This trip is suited to Intermediate and Expert riders. The Alpine climbs are long and challenging, so some prior training is recommended to ensure you can fully enjoy the experience.
Yes, support vehicles are included throughout the trip. They carry water, snacks, and any spare gear you may need during the ride, so you can focus on enjoying the climbs.
Yes, a single room supplement is available. Within 24–48 hours of booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email containing a form to complete. Simply let us know your preference there, and we’ll arrange the single room supplement for you.
No, you don’t have to ride every day. While the itinerary is designed to be enjoyed as a complete cycling experience, you’re welcome to skip a ride or take a rest day if needed. Just let your guide know in advance so we can help with the arrangements
Yes our Alpine Gravel Escape will be running at the same time. And of course, you can join also join any of the gravel rides, just let your guide during the trip.
If you need to rent a gravel bike for the day, we can organise it for you. Just let us know when booking in the case you need to rent.
Please bear in mind that the Alpine Gravel Escape tour is Expert only, meaning that you will need the appropriate fitness level and bike handling skills to join the gravel rides.
If you’re planning to ride the Stelvio day, some dedicated climbing preparation makes a real difference — sustained gradients like this reward riders who’ve built specific climbing endurance rather than just general fitness. If you’d like a structured plan built around this trip, visit our cycling coaching page and Matteo can help you put together a plan based on your current level and the time you have before you travel.
Beyond your usual riding kit, bring layers for the Stelvio day — temperatures at the summit can be significantly cooler than down at lake level, even in summer. Our full guide to packing for a European cycling holiday covers everything else you’ll need for the week.
