Famous Cycling Climbs in Italy: Stelvio, Mortirolo and Zoncolan
Italy’s famous climbs: the Stelvio, the Mortirolo and Monte Zoncolan, with length, gradient and links to full guides.
In this post
Italy’s great climbs are steep, high and woven into the history of the Giro d’Italia. These three are the ones riders talk about most, and each has a full guide.
Strava is a trademark of Strava, Inc. Corbah isn’t connected to Strava; this is our own guide.
The climbs
- Stelvio from Prato: about 25 km and 48 numbered hairpins up to 2,758 m.
- Mortirolo from Mazzo: about 12 km at about 10.5%, with ramps over 20%.
- Monte Zoncolan from Ovaro: about 10 km at 11.5 to 12%, with ramps over 20%.
Planning a trip
- Stelvio and Mortirolo: the Stelvio’s far side drops to Bormio, and the Mortirolo starts down the same valley, so one trip can cover both.
- Gear low: the Mortirolo and Zoncolan are steep enough that most riders want their smallest gears. See what gearing you need for hills.
- Watch the Giro: it’s expected in May; see the 2027 race calendar.
The Giro’s rivalries: Coppi vs Bartali and Moser vs Saronni. More in Europe: famous climbs in France.
What to wear
Steep climbs are slow climbs, so your jersey gets seen. Our Climbs jerseys are drawn from the mountains: the Mont Ventoux Mistral, Contour and TOUGH After the Climb. Each is made to order, with free personalization.
More climbs: famous Strava climbs.
Strava is a trademark of Strava, Inc. Corbah isn’t connected to Strava; this is our own guide.
