Passo dello Stelvio is the highest paved road in Italy and the second highest in Europe, sitting at 2,758 meters (9,048 feet). It’s a masterpiece of engineering, a WWI battleground, and above all, the perfect setting for one of the most beautiful bike rides in Italy…and in the world.
The Stelvio Loop is more than just a route. It’s a full day of effort, awe, altitude, and reward.
It starts and ends in Bormio, taking you on a high-mountain journey across Italy and Switzerland, through pine forests, ancient passes, open valleys, and a feast of switchbacks and jaw-dropping views.
The Route at a Glance
- Start/Finish: Bormio
- Distance: 100 km (62 miles)
- Elevation gain: 3,000 m (9,840 ft)
- Climbs: Passo Umbrail & Passo dello Stelvio from Prato
- Level: Advanced / E-road bike friendly
- Best season: Mid June to Late September
The Ride
You roll out from Bormio in the crisp alpine morning and start climbing right away. The first section features long straight stretches with dramatic rock tunnels carved into the mountain. Then you hit Spondalunga, and 10 back-to-back switchbacks give you a first taste of the Stelvio magic.
Just when the fatigue starts to creep in, La Piana della Terza (a plateau near the third casa cantoniera) offers a sweet relief: a 2.5 km (1.5 mi) stretch at 3–4% gradient. Then it’s time for the final push on the first climb.
At the fork, don’t follow the signs for Stelvio Pass. Keep left and follow the signs to Switzerland. Congratulations: you’ve just conquered Umbrail Pass, crossed a border, and earned a thrilling descent on a beautiful winding road.
At the bottom, take a right at the junction and spin along the valley floor. If you’re riding with us, this is where we treat you to a homemade picnic lunch in a sunny square in Santa Maria Val Müstair.
Then it’s game time.
Spin through the last flat stretch into Prato allo Stelvio, then point your wheels up and start counting: 48 legendary switchbacks that climb high into the mountains and lead you to the summit of the mighty Passo dello Stelvio at 2,758 meters (9,048 feet).
At the top, soak in the view, take plenty of photos, and enjoy a cappuccino (yes, today even after 11 a.m.). You’ve earned it.
The final descent is pure joy: 40 more switchbacks all the way back to Bormio.
You’ll roll into town tired, happy, in awe… and yes: pizza and beer are on us tonight.
Cheers. What a ride!
Tips from the Vago Team
- Pace yourself especially on the first climb. Don’t go full gas too early. The gradients are manageable, but both climbs are long.
- Bring layers or stash them in the van. Weather can change quickly, and the temperature difference between valley and summit is real.
- Start early to avoid traffic and the valley heat in Prato.
- Eat and drink trust us, the picnic isn’t just delicious, it’s strategic. You’ll want that energy for the second climb.
- Be careful the roads are narrow, winding, and shared with cars and motorcycles. Always ride safe.
Ready to Ride the Stelvio Loop?
You can experience this great ride on our Stelvio to Lake Como Bike Tour or on our Epic Climbs of the Alps Bike Tour.
Looking for great rides but wilder and less known? Check out the Wild Abruzzo Road Bike Tour.
