PASSO DEL MORTIROLO FROM MAZZO BIKE CLIMB | ALPS

One of Europe's hardest bike climbs is Passo del Mortirolo, a must ride.

The bike route up from Mazzo is classic way up and most well known.  Utilized in various Giro d'Italia's this route has an average grade of 10.5%, with ramps up to 18%.  The heart of the climb is 4 km section with an average grade of 14%.

Passo Mortirolo Bike Climb From Mazzo Route Notes

Region	Lombardy Region
Departure Point	Mazzo in Valtelina
Elevation at departure	551 meter
Highest elevation	1851 meters
Length	12.4 km
Elevation gain	1300 meters
Average grade	10.5%
Max grade	18%
Average Ride Times
Excursionist	2 hours, 10 minutes
Cycle Tourist	1 hour, 37 minutes
Semi Pro Racer	1 hour 11 minutes
Professional Cyclist	55 minutes, 40 sec

 

PASSO MORTIROLO BIKE TOURING THE LOMBARDY REGION OF ITALY

There are many ways to ride Passo Mortirolo, either as your single objective for the day or combining with another pass in the area.  Most Italian riders and event organizers consider the ride from  or through the town of Bormio to Passo del Mortirolo and Passo Giave back to Bormio.  This is an excellent day out on the bike, but it is not a bad idea to have support on this ride.

The climb starts at Mazzo di Valtelina, there is on a bar (called the 'Funny Bar') just south of the intersection of the pass road; this is a good place to grab caffe before the climb and use the restroom.  The first 2 kms of the climb actually average's only 7-8%, but there are short ramps of 9 and 10.  At the 2 km point you will enjoy a short break and this is where the heart of the climb starts.  From here the next 5 kms averages over 10%. 

There are a couple of places to grab water on the way up, but it is best to start with two bottles full if you are trying to ride without putting a foot down.  In turn 11 you will notice a modern sculpture of what is suppose to be a bicyclist, it is a monument to Marco Patini.