The Gavia Pass represents one of the most popular destinations for cyclists from all over Europe.

It was discovered in 1960 by Vincenzo Torriani, who decided to asphalt it and include it in the Giro d'Italia.

Already known since the Middle Ages, the Merchants of the Republic of Venice crossed it to connect to the Via Imperiale d'Alemagna and then reach Germany, the Tyrol and the countries of northern Europe. Many accidents occurred during its crossing, in fact given the constant weather changes, blizzards, avalanches and fog, it was nicknamed the "Deadhead Pass."

It starts from Ponte di Legno (1258 m) to face a climb of about 18 km (the Brescia side is tougher) while instead the Valtellina side with departure from Bormio has a slightly lower average gradient but a good 26 km of the route.

With a charge of energy we set off and up to the 5th-6th km the road is well maintained, wide and with easy gradients until the village of Sant'Apollonia (1584 m). From here the "real" climb begins, the roadway narrows, the gradient more important: the challenge begins.

It continues like this for 3 km, scenic hairpin bends "sweeten" the fatigue and make you appreciate the Valle delle Messi, the climb until a few years ago was not paved and therefore much harder on both arms and legs.

The slopes give a slight respite, the air is cool and light, the sun very warm. You count the meters that separate the road from each bend because taking it "wide" you can breathe for a few seconds: thirst is always lurking and , hairpin bend after hairpin bend, you really sweat a lot.

Past the 14th km, you encounter a tunnel of about 300 m that seems to never end, once you get out you immediately change the ratio and climb at 11% gradient.

The last 3 km to go, you have to grit your teeth, you begin to catch a glimpse of the summit.

The arrival point is a spectacle: the Val di Gavia (2621 m), just below the Rifugio Bonetta , which with its Lago Bianco makes you admire the alpine panorama.

You catch your breath: this one is done, too!

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Cover image by Roberto Mantia

Departure : Ponte di Legno (BS)
Finish : Gavia Pass (BS/SO)
Length: mt. 17600
Departure altitude: mt. 1402
Arrival altitude: mt. 2614
Height difference: mt. 1212
Average slope: 6.89 %.

(Source: Grimpeur.co.uk)

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