Cycling the Dolomites, Part 5 of 7, Alpe d'Siusi, Italy

The first time I cycled this climb was during the Giro delle Dolomiti. It was pouring rain. The conditions were terrible but the riding was fantastic. It is even better on a sunny day. Ride the bike path from Bolzano at 300m elevation through the narrow steep valley north in and out of abandoned railway tunnels. Turn onto the narrow steep farm access road. This narrow quiet road is very steep. Enjoy the spectacular views of the valley below. Wind your way up through apple and chestnut orchards. Eventually you will rejoin the busy main road to the village of Alpe di Siusi. Just past the village turn on to the limited access road under the Gondola and through the Nature Park towards the summit. That mountain looks familiar it’s the backside of Schlern Massif. At 1800m, This is the largest alpine plateau in Europe. In the winter this snow covered wonderland is home to some of the best cross-country and alpine skiing. It’s also home to the famous Moonlight Classic Cross-country ski night race. There are lots of places to stop for food and drink in the alpine scenery. The fast ride down is spectacular. Don’t forget to turn off the busy main road just past the village of Alpe di Siusi for you exciting return to the narrow farm road and the valley below.
Total Distance 74km, 1663m of climbing