Dolomites, Italy · from Selva di Cadore
Passo Giau
The Passo Giau from Selva di Cadore is pure climbing: 9.3 km averaging almost 10% with zero flat sections to rest. Surrounded by the towering Ra Gusela and Tofane peaks, it is widely regarded as the most beautiful yet unforgiving pass in the Dolomites.
Summit elevation: 2236 m
How fast would you climb Passo Giau?
Enter your power and weight. A physics engine calculates your estimated time against the gradient profile.
Predict your
performance.
See how power and weight affect your time on a real climb.
*Demo simulation uses standard road bike physics (CdA 0.32, Crr 0.004).
Passo Giau and the Tour
First introduced to the Giro d'Italia in 1973, Passo Giau is famous as the highpoint of the Maratona dles Dolomites gran fondo. In the 2021 Giro, Egan Bernal launched a decisive epic attack through freezing rain over the summit to cement his maglia rosa victory.
Egan Bernal set the modern Giro ascent record of 32:45 from Selva di Cadore on Stage 16 of the 2021 Giro d'Italia.
32:45 for the 9.3 km climb averaging 9.3% in heavy mountain rain on Stage 16 of the 2021 Giro.
Riding it yourself
When to go
Late May to October. High altitude (2,236 m) means mountain weather can turn to snow rapidly even in June.
Base & logistics
Base in Cortina d'Ampezzo or Colle Santa Lucia. Pairs perfectly with Passo Falzarego or Passo Valparola for a classic Dolomite loop.
FAQ
How long is the Passo Giau climb?
From Selva di Cadore, the climb is about 10.9 km with roughly 967 m of elevation gain at 8.9% average gradient (based on the simplified profile used by this simulator; published figures vary slightly by source).
How long does it take to cycle up Passo Giau?
It depends almost entirely on your power-to-weight ratio. Use the simulator on this page: enter your FTP and weight, and a physics model (air resistance, rolling resistance, gravity) estimates your time on the gradient profile.
How accurate is the time simulation?
The simulator uses a simplified segment profile and standard road bike assumptions (CdA 0.32, Crr 0.004, 8 kg bike). It does not model wind, drafting, altitude, surface or pacing errors, so treat the result as a realistic estimate, not a guarantee.
How should I train for Passo Giau?
Sustained climbs reward steady threshold and sweet spot work plus a power-to-weight improvement over weeks, not days. TrainCraft builds structured cycling training plans and adapts them when you miss sessions, using fatigue science (CTL/ATL/TSB).
More famous climbs
Preparing for this climb?
A climb like this is won weeks in advance. TrainCraft builds a structured plan around your FTP and available hours, and adapts it when you miss a workout.
Start Training FreeThe profile is simplified into 14 segments for simulation; real gradients vary metre by metre. Stats shown are derived from this simulated profile and closely match commonly published figures. Time estimates assume standard road bike physics and no wind.
Training for a climb like this?
TrainCraft builds structured training plans and adapts them when life gets in the way — real fatigue science (CTL/ATL/TSB), visual workout builder, Strava & Garmin sync. Free to start.