Giau Pass from Selva di Cadore

Route overview

Riders looking for a challenging climb with sustained gradients over a mid-distance route.

Giau Pass in Italy, a 13.7 km climb from Selva di Cadore gaining 905 m elevation.

Starting near Santa Fosca (0.3 km) and passing through several small localities including Selva di Cadore at 3.4 km, the route begins its main ascent from around 3.9 km. The climb is 9.8 km long, gaining 905 m, with an average gradient of 9.3% and sections up to 12.1%. It ends at Passo Giau at 13.6 km with an elevation of 2230 m. Almost all the route is paved (98%) and mostly on main roads (86%, mainly SP638 for 9.6 km). There are 11.8 km on main roads without a cycle lane. The profile features 72% climbing, with more than 8 km over 8% gradient and 2.4 km steeper than 10%. The longest descent of 3.6 km is near the start. Facilities include a café and supermarket around 3.3 km, water points at 1 km and 9.3 km, and a petrol station at 3.7 km. There is a 5.6 km stretch without cafés, shops or water between 3.7 and 9.3 km. The route passes near several peaks such as Col de Giatei (2184 m at 10.2 km), Torre Anna (2450 m at 12.5 km), Ra Gusela (2595 m at 13.3 km) and Punta di Zonia (2280 m at 13.7 km). Worth stopping at are the viewpoint at Passo Giau (13.6 km) and the peak Col de Giatei.

Highlights

• Climbs 905 m over 9.8 km from Selva di Cadore
• Passo Giau summit at 2230 m
• Near peaks Ra Gusela (2595 m) and Punta di Zonia (2280 m)
• Viewpoint at Passo Giau (13.6 km)

Practical information

Surface

Paved

Route shape

Point to point

Riding time

59 min

Best months

Jun to Aug — daily highs of 17–19 °C in those months

Know before you go

• 5.6 km without café, shop or water from 3.7 km to 9.3 km
• 11.8 km on main roads without a cycle lane
• Steep gradients: up to 12.1% maximum, 2.4 km over 10%

Routes are for inspiration. Roads, surfaces and conditions change — check locally and ride within your limits.