Sellaronda Cycle Route

This road cycling tour is considered difficult. It involves significant elevation gain and traverses four major mountain passes: Pordoi Pass, Passo Sella, Gardena Pass, and Campolongo Pass. While the climbs have moderate gradients (typically 5-8%), the sustained effort over 51.5 km and 1,672 meters of ascent requires a good level of fitness.

You can start the Sellaronda loop from several towns around the Sella massif, including Selva di Val Gardena, Corvara, Canazei, or Arabba. Each of these towns offers parking facilities, often near the main lifts or town centers. It's a ring tour, so you'll finish where you started.

The best time to cycle the Sellaronda is typically from late spring (June) to early autumn (September). During these months, the mountain passes are clear of snow, and the weather is generally more stable and pleasant. Mid-summer can be busy, especially if you plan to participate in events like the Sellaronda Bike Day.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Sellaronda – ring tour itself. The roads are public, and you can access them freely. However, if you plan to use any cable cars or chairlifts, or visit specific attractions, those may have their own fees.

As a challenging road cycling tour, the Sellaronda is generally not suitable for dogs to run alongside. If you plan to bring a dog, it would need to be transported safely in a bike trailer or backpack. Always ensure your dog's safety and comfort, and be aware of local regulations regarding pets in public areas and on public transport in the Dolomites.

The Sellaronda offers spectacular views of the Dolomites. Key highlights include the Pordoi Pass, where you'll find the Fausto Coppi Monument, and the Passo Sella with its stunning vistas. Don't miss the View of the Hairpin Bends of Passo Gardena for a classic Dolomites panorama. You'll also pass through picturesque valleys and charming villages like Corvara.

The Sellaronda Bike Day is a special biannual event where the roads around the Sella massif are closed to motorized traffic for several hours. This allows thousands of cyclists to enjoy the entire loop in a unique, traffic-free environment. It's a highly popular event, usually held in mid-summer, and offers a fantastic way to experience the Sellaronda.

The Sellaronda can be cycled in either a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. While both offer incredible scenery, cycling anti-clockwise is often recommended as most cyclists follow this direction. This can make for a more consistent flow of traffic and a slightly different perspective on the climbs and descents.

The Sellaronda is entirely on paved roads, generally well-maintained with some sections featuring new asphalt. You'll encounter numerous switchbacks on the ascents and descents of the four passes. The gradients are mostly moderate, making for a consistent and challenging road cycling experience.

Yes, while primarily a road cycling route, sections of the Sellaronda intersect or run parallel to various other trails. Notably, parts of the route overlap with the MTB Sella Ronda ACW and MTB Sella Ronda CW trails, as well as the SICAI Ciclo. You might also briefly encounter sections of the Alta via n. 9 delle Dolomiti and the Sentiero Italia.

Given the mountain environment, even in summer, weather can change quickly. Pack layers, including a windproof/waterproof jacket. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as well as spare tubes, a pump, and basic repair tools. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a helmet. A fully charged phone and a GPS device are also highly recommended for navigation.