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Passo dello Stelvio: The Holy Grail of Road Cycling
For many road cyclists, the Stelvio Pass is more than just a mountain pass—it's an icon, a must-do on the list of epic challenges, and a place that blurs the line between passion and madness. With its 48 hairpin bends on the northern ramp and an elevation of 2,757 meters, the Stelvio is the second-highest paved pass in the Alps and an unparalleled adventure.
By Vincent Augustin 3 minutes read time
Published: February 9, 2025 | Updated: July 28, 2026
The facts: Impressive figures
- Altitude: 2,757 m
- Length of the north ramp: approx. 24.3 km
- Difference in altitude: 1,808 m
- Maximum gradient: 15%
- Number of bends: 48 on the north ramp
The pass connects the Italian Valtellina with the South Tyrolean Vinschgau and impresses not only with its sheer height, but also with the magnificent landscape that unfolds along the route.
The Stelvio Myth: History and Giro d'Italia
The Stelvio has a long tradition in cycling and has been a decisive stage of the Giro d'Italia several times. Since its first crossing at the 1953 Giro, where Fausto Coppi launched a legendary attack, the Stelvio has been considered a touchstone for professionals and amateurs alike. The combination of elevation, thin air, and the challenge of the switchbacks makes this pass a true test.
The three ramps: Which do you choose?
There are three main routes to climb the Stelvio:
- The northern ramp of Prad am Stilfserjoch (South Tyrol):
- The most popular route. The 48 hairpin bends are legendary and offer a different perspective of the surrounding mountains at every turn.
- The eastern ramp of Bormio (Lombardy):
- A bit shorter, but technically challenging, especially due to the long galleries and tunnels. The view of the Ortler massif is spectacular.
- The southern ramp over the Umbrail Pass (Switzerland):
- The quietest variant, which can be perfectly combined with the north ramp to create a circular tour.
Preparation: What you need to know
The Stelvio not only demands everything from your road bike, but also from you. Good preparation is key:
- Fitness: You should be familiar with longer climbs and have a solid basic level of fitness.
- Equipment: Light gear ratios (e.g. 34/30) are essential to cope with the steep sections.
- Clothing: Even in midsummer, temperatures above 2,000 meters can be uncomfortably cold. A windproof jacket is a must.
- Nutrition: Sufficient water and energy gels help to maintain energy over the hours.
Which bike is suitable for the Stelvio?
The Passo dello Stelvio demands a road bike that's both lightweight and robust. An optimal setup includes a 52-36 gear ratio up front and an 11-34 cassette at the rear—this allows you to efficiently tackle the steep sections while still building speed on the flatter sections. Reliable brakes are essential for the technically demanding descents. A road bike like the MYVELO Tourmalet, designed for demanding mountain tours, offers exactly the balance of performance, comfort, and control you need for this epic challenge.
At MYVELO we are so enthusiastic about the Stelvio that we also named one of our E-MTB fullys after it.
The reward: adrenaline and views
Once at the top, you'll be rewarded with a view that's second to none. The panorama stretches all the way to the peaks of the Ortler, and the switchbacks you've conquered seem almost surreal from a bird's eye view. The descent is no less exciting and requires full concentration – but here, too, you'll feel the fascination of the Stelvio.
Conclusion: A must for every racing cyclist
The Stelvio Pass is not only a test of your legs, but also of your mind. The combination of physical exertion, scenic beauty, and the history of this pass makes every ride unforgettable. Whether you plan to conquer it once in your life or return regularly, the Stelvio will captivate you time and time again.
Are you planning your tour to the Stelvio? Which route appeals to you most? Share your experiences and tips in the comments!
Sources & References
- Wikipedia "Stilfser Joch: Passhöhe, Rangfolge in den Alpen, Straßenbau unter Carlo Donegani 1820–1826, Wintersperre". https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stilfser_Joch
- Ride Up "Passo dello Stelvio: three climbs compared (Streckendaten der drei Rampen, Kehrenanzahl)". https://rideup.cc/en/blog/stelvio-pass-three-sides/
- Giro d'Italia (1953). "Stelvio: Die Debüt-Etappe vom 1. Juni 1953 und Coppis Attacke gegen Hugo Koblet". https://www.giroditalia.it/en/stelvio/
- Wehrlin, J.P. & Hallén, J. (2006). "Linear decrease in VO2max and performance with increasing altitude in endurance athletes. European Journal of Applied Physiology". DOI: 10.1007/s00421-005-0081-9. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-005-0081-9
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