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Monte Grappa Loop

#11 on our Great Rides list

Monte Grappa

This famous climb in the Pre-Alps was a World War I battleground, and today Monte Grappa stands as a focal point of fierce Italian national pride.

Location

Asolo, Veneto, Italy

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Distance

45 miles / 72km

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Elevation Gain

6,476ft / 1,974m

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Best Time to Visit

Summer or late Spring

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Surface

Paved Road

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Difficulty

Level 4

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Traffic

Level 1

Discover this ride on our Giro d'Italia bike tour

Ride through the heart of the Dolomites

Monte Grappa is part of the Grappa massif, 100 km in circumferance, which straddles the provinces of Treviso, Vicenza, and Belluno in the northeast Italy’s Veneto region.

It rises from the plains to a height of 1,775 m (5,769 ft). It’s also a wonderland for cyclists, offering ten paved routes to the summit, one of which is considered one of the most beautiful and challenging climbs in Italy. The Giro d’Italia has visited Monte Grappa several times and the ride is considered a must for any cycling fan. The challenge ends at a huge Memorial monument where many soldiers were buried; this is why the Italians consider this mountain sacred. From the summit (on a clear day), you will see the lagoon of Venice in the south and the sharp summits of the Dolomites to the north. Enjoy the vistas while you have lunch at our recommended location, Rifugio Bassano. You’ll be surrounded by fields and pastures on the mountain complete with “malghe,” or alpine homes to the animals. After lunch, descend toward Romano d’Ezzelino and stop at the inn at Ponte San Lorenzo to see autographed photos of Gino Bartali and Marco Pantani. Finally retrace your steps back to your fantastic hotel.

What you need to know

RIDE DETAILS
The climb officialy starts at the church of Semonzo and for the next 6 to 7 km you will be riding in the woods and conquering a series of switchbacks. It is very important not to push hard during this first section. Average grade is around 8% and you will work your way up to switchback 20. The ascent is 11.4 miles / 18.5 km, gaining 1,514 m at an 8.3% average grade (the max grade encountered is 14%), this is the most difficult route up to Cima Grappa by bike.

WEATHER
This part of the mountain is popular for paragliding, the steepness of mountain and warm winds from the sea gives gliders a great up-lift.

FUEL
Switchback 20 marks the end of the first section. Keep in mind that if you are running low on water, stop at the Restaurant ‘Deltapiano’ (around 890 meters) to fill up otherwise you will run into problems later.

While you’re in town

At 1,360 meters you crest a small rise and finally get to see the top of the climb. From here there is a short downhill and contour before working your way up the last wall of the climbs. In the valley below you can spot the Piave River and the Asolo hills. From switchback 26 to 28 is your last grind with a couple of 11% sections. Once you pass the last switchback there is a short ramp that intersects with the main route where you can turn right and continue another 1 km to the summit at 7% grade. At the top stop at Rifugio Bassano and grab something to eat before you start a sweeping descent toward Romando d’Ezzelino.

Plan to spend at least a couple days in this area to experience the beauty and culture of this amazing part of Italy. Explore the ancient, cobblestone streets or sip a coffee as you gaze up at the challenging climb you just conquered.

Ready for Monte Grappa?

Book early and save. We reward our guests with lower pricing and more dates to choose from the earlier you book. Rest assured, once you book, your price is guaranteed.

Private

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

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What is the Difference?

Ultimate Luxury:

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Luxury:

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

Explorer:

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

Combined:

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of Explorer and Luxury hotels. Rest assured, no matter which hotel level you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Activity Level

Level 1:

Road: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Level 2:

Road: 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Level 3:

Road: 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Level 4:

Road: 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel: 4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

What are your trip styles?

Classic - Reserve:

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discover:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Ride Camp:

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

Pro Race:

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself