The Giau is one of the iconic passes of the Giro d’Italia, a protagonist of many of the great Dolomite stages regaling thrills and enjoyment.
To address this climb and conquer its 2236 metre summit, you will need prep and determination. Apart from the satisfaction of pedalling along a road in the wake of great cyclists, you will be rewarded by a breath-taking view.
In fact, the Giau is one of the most spectacular (and photographed) passes in the Dolomites connecting the Val Cordevole with the Val Boite and offers a view of the most famous Dolomite peaks comprising the Tofane peaks, the Marmolada, the Sella Group, the Cristallo and the Croda de Lago.
Curiosities and tips
- In 1992, Laurent “the Professor” Fignon almost gave in to the Giau Pass. Gregarious Dirk De Work came to his aid with the loan of a jacket, much encouragement and, quite literally, a push towards the finishing line.
- The Giau Pass was the Cima Coppi (the highest point of the Giro) in 2011 and 2021.
- As you climb from Selva di Cadore there are as many as 29 bends to be tackled with an average gradient of 9.1%
