The last day of our Dolomites trip I decided to dash (pedal slowly) up the north side of Passo Giau before a long drive home. I’ve climbed the dreaded south side a couple of times as part of the Maratona dles Dolomites (I’ve included the profile for both sides below). But this was the first time climbing the stunning north side.
The first 5+ kilometres from Cortina are on a slightly busy road as it is also the direct way to Corvara via Passo Falzarego. But the route then turns left for a much quieter and truly beautiful final 10 kilometres.
I would have loved to do a bigger loop with Passo di Fedaia or Passo Falzarego but time constraints and tired legs dictated an up/down. But it is a great up/down.
Not as tough as the south side, this is still a beautiful and challenging climb.
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Views
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Quiet / No Traffic
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Difficulty
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Fun Factor
2 Comments
What gorgeous pictures! I did this side last year as part of a loop, first going up the Falzarego-Valparola before dropping down to take the road up the Giau. I had actually intended to do it the other way ’round, but took the wrong turn somehow above Caprile. The weather was quite menacing by the time I reached the top, so I didn’t hang around for the views. Your photos make me want to return. Descending the south side, by the way, was a blast — endless tight hairpins.
I was deflated to see Will’s comments that this is easier side. Just did the exact same ride today and back to Torre5 lift. In rain. It was tough