The Col Collective

Passo Gavia Italian Alps

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Steeped in Italian cycling history the Passo Gavia is one of the most feared and famous climbs in the Giro d’Italia, first used in 1960 and regularly stirring up its snowy mischief ever since. I got to sample that first-hand back in the (so called) summer of 2009 as I grovelled up its slopes from Bormio during an event called The Race Across The Alps, one of my first forays into the world of endurance road cycling. The fact that the day before was idilic and yet just a handful of hours later it was worse than mid-winter is testament to the Gavia’s prowess at being able to throw a tantrum at a moment’s notice. So why do I find myself returning so often? Its unpredictability is all part of the draw and if you catch it on a good day I can guarantee the memory of its rugged landscape, unique challenge and the natural beauty of the Lago Bianco (white lake) at the summit will soothe your soul forever. Without question a truly inspirational mountain.

If you enjoyed this, you can also watch the other side now from Ponte di Legno.

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Kit used for this climb:

Cannondale EVO Hi-Mod Di2

Mavic Cosmic Wind Long Sleeve Jersey

Mavic Cosmic Wind Glove

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25.6km

Length of climb

1217m

Start elevation

2621m

Summit elevation

1404m

Elevation gain

5.5%

Gradient (avg)

11% at 21km

Gradient (max)

34x28 (minimum)

Gearing suggestion

View on Climb by Bike

More climbs in this region

Colle Fauniera
Passo del Mortirolo
Colle del Nivolet
Finestre
Monte Grappa Semonzo
Monte Zoncolan
Passo dello Stelvio
Passo Gavia
Passo dello Stelvio