Cycling the Sella Ronda

Riding the Sella Ronda loop is the ultimate Dolomites experience

The Sella Ronda is one of the most iconic cycling routes in the world, and for good reason. This legendary loop in the Dolomites, Italy, offers jaw-dropping mountain views, incredible climbs, and exhilarating descents. And if you’re a serious cyclist looking to take on this challenging ride, doing it on a race bike is the way to go. It’s a route that’s perfect for those looking to enjoy climbing while being surrounded by the most stunning landscapes imaginable.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about cycling the Sella Ronda. From the terrain to the best time to ride, and why it’s a must-do for any cycling enthusiast. Let’s roll!

What is the Sella Ronda?

The Sella Ronda is a 58km loop around the Sella Massif, a mountain range in the Dolomites, which are part of the northern Italian Alps. It’s famous for its four major mountain passes: Passo Pordoi, Passo Sella, Passo Gardena, and Passo Campolongo. These climbs make up the bulk of the route, with some of them being quite challenging. The scenery is out of this world, with towering peaks, lush valleys, and quaint mountain villages along the way.

The Climbs of the Sella Ronda – What to Expect

Let’s talk about the climbs. There are four major ascents on the Sella Ronda, and each has its own character. We describe them clockwise, starting in Corvara. 

  1. Passo Campolongo – This is the first climb and, while not the steepest, it’s a solid introduction to the day. It’s 6 km long and has a 5.9% average gradient. After a few beautiful switchbacks and some nice views, you reach the top at 1,875 meters.
  2. Passo Pordoi – Known as the ‘King of the Dolomites,’ this climb is one of the longest. It reaches an elevation of 2,236 meters and ascents steady at 7% average. You’ll appreciate your performance here, as it has stunning views during the 9.2 km of climbing.
  3. Passo Sella – After Pordoi, you’ll descend into the beautiful Val di Fassa valley before the climb to Passo Sella. It’s shorter and steeper than Pordoi, so quite demanding. You reach 2,240 meters after 5.5 km at a 7.7% gradient. The rewards are worth it, though, with even better views of the Dolomites.
  4. Passo Gardena – The final climb before the descent back to the start is the Passo Gardena. It has challenging and some easier parts. With the beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, it almost feels like a victory lap. For the last time you pass the 2,000 meter mark after 5.7 km of climbing at 5%. 

We will ride the Sella Ronda during the Dolomites Experience with cycling cafe De Meet. Visit the event page for more information.

The Sella Ronda Descents – A Cycling Dream

What goes up must come down, right? After conquering the climbs, the descents on the Sella Ronda will have you grinning from ear to ear. The roads are smooth and wide, making them perfect for smooth descending. It’s hard to not lose your focus in these surroundings, however be sure to look around.

After cycling the Sella Ronda you will feel tired and very good at the same time. It is a wonderful and challenging experience at the same time. 

When’s the Best Time to Cycle the Sella Ronda?

The best time to ride the Sella Ronda is during the late spring to early autumn months (June to September), when the weather is milder, and the roads are clear of snow. In summer it can be a bit crowded with tourists, but it’s still an amazing time to visit, with long days and perfect riding conditions.

Therefore, Ride Up organized the Dolomites Hike & Bike tour end of August. A free tip: Chalet Beyond offers some great cycling friendly places to stay! 

Final Thoughts: Is cycling the Sella Ronda Worth It?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a thrilling cycling experience that combines challenging climbs, epic descents, and incredible mountain views, cycling the Sella Ronda is a must-do. It’s not just a ride; it’s an experience that will leave you with memories.

The Sella Ronda will test your endurance, reward your efforts with breathtaking scenery, and leave you feeling like a true cycling champion. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or looking to push your limits, this legendary loop is waiting for you to take it on.

So, grab your race bike, saddle up, and get ready to conquer the Sella Ronda. You won’t regret it!