Four legendary passes. One epic loop. The Sella Ronda is a true jewel of the Dolomites — a ride that blends dramatic landscapes, cycling history, and pure riding joy. Tucked into the heart of the Italian Alps, this route circles the Sella Group, an impressive limestone massif, and crosses four iconic mountain passes: Campolongo, Pordoi, Sella, and Gardena.
“The best 30-mile ride in the world.”
Jim M. – Stelvio and Dolomites
The Route at a Glance
- Start/Finish: Corvara (or Canazei / Selva / Arabba – it’s a loop!)
- Distance: 55 km (34 miles)
- Elevation gain: 1,800 m (5,900 ft)
- Climbs: Passo Campolongo, Passo Pordoi, Passo Sella, Passo Gardena
- Level: Intermediate to Advanced / E-road bike friendly
- Best season: Late June to mid-September
The Ride
You roll out from Corvara and immediately start climbing — first up: Passo Campolongo. Steady, short, and scenic, it’s the perfect appetizer to wake up the legs. The descent to Arabba is fast and fun, but don’t get too comfortable: the climb to Passo Pordoi begins almost right away.
This one’s a classic — and our personal favorite. 33 switchbacks, a constant gradient, and a summit that feels like a pilgrimage for cyclists. There’s a monument to Fausto Coppi at the top, and a rifugio serving coffee and apple strudel just when you need it most.
Next comes Passo Sella, possibly the most spectacular of the four. The Sassolungo cliffs tower to your left as the road winds up through alpine meadows and jagged rock walls. It’s hard to know whether to push the pace or stop every five minutes for photos.
Finally, it’s time for Passo Gardena, the last climb of the day. It’s gentler than the others, and the views back toward the Sella Group and Val Gardena are unforgettable. One final descent brings you back to Corvara — legs buzzing, smile wide.
We usually prefer riding the Sella Ronda clockwise from Corvara, but the anticlockwise loop is just as stunning. If you have time, ride them both — it’s amazing how the landscape feels different depending on your direction.
Why do we prefer clockwise?
- Passo Campolongo is the perfect first climb, short and sweet
- The Arabba side of Pordoi is a visual treat
- The jaw-dropping views of Sassolungo climbing Sella from the west
Tips from the Vago Team
- Don’t be fooled by the short distance — these are real mountain passes. Pace and fuel accordingly.
- Bring layers (or stash them in the van). Weather can change quickly at these heights.
- Stop for a coffee or strudel at the rifugi — part of the magic is soaking in the alpine atmosphere.
- Start early to avoid traffic.
- Want to make it harder? Ride two laps, or add Passo delle Erbe or Valparola.
When we say the weather is no joke, we know what we’re talking about. Check out the story of an epic snow-covered Sella Ronda.
Ready to Ride the Sella Ronda?
You can experience this great ride on our Stelvio and Dolomites Bike Tour or on our Prosecco Hills and Dolomites Bike Tour.
Looking for great rides but wilder and less known? Check out the Wild Abruzzo Road Bike Tour or dive into another unforgettable loop: Great Rides: The Stelvio Loop
