For Italian and foreign cyclists, his name is truly a myth. The“Mortirolo” is simply one of Europe’s toughest climbs, grueling in places, and one that tests even professionals on two wheels.

The scene of great cycling challenges and duels over the past 40 years, the Mortirolo climb is also enshrined as the “Pirate’sClimb,” or the climb of Marco Pantani, among Italy’s greatest grimpeurs and an unforgettable symbol of an entire generation of cyclists.
It was on the steep slopes of this mountain, in the 1994 Giro d’Italia, that the Romagna champion began his legend, when as a semi-unknown he staged one of his renowned and deadly solo escapes, winning the stage.

Technical description:
The 12-km route runs almost entirely through the forest, tackling the climb on the north side, which is the toughest one to face while pedaling. From Mazzo di Valtellina one climbs steadily toward the Mortirolo Pass, with an average gradient of more than 10 percent and peaks as high as 20 percent.

At km 8 we meet the monument dedicated to “Pirate” Pantani (created in 2006 by Alberto Pasqual) at one of the most exciting points of the route.

Thanks to the Valtellina Terziere Superiore Tourist Consortium.

Length: 12 km
Height difference in ascent: 1302 m
Downhill elevation gain: 12 m
Highest point: 1852 m
Lowest point: 566 m
Type of surface: asphalt

Technical tips:
To tackle this beautiful and grueling climb you need to be well trained and not overdo it in the very first kilometers because then the gradients become really prohibitive.
The Mortirolo Pass is only open at certain times of the year-approximately from May 15 to September 30-and much depends on weather conditions.

Municipality of departure: Mazzo di Valtellina
Starting location: Mazzo di Valtellina
Municipality of arrival: Mazzo di Valtellina
Finish location: Mortirolo Pass

Recommended period:
April to October

Useful links:
http://www.valtellinaturismo.com/