It's the descent with the longest elevation loss in Valtellina (1.852 m) and the most riders' sought-after mtb ride. The climb crosses the Mortirolo Pass, the legendary climb of the Giro d'Italia, ridden by a crowd of cyclists every year. From Mount Varadega you can enjoy wonderful surroundings and outstanding views, while the trails and mule tracks to Grosio are surrounded by incredible larch woods and breath-taking alpine landscapes. THE CLIMB From Grosio Weigh station parking (by car or by bike) Once crossed the town of Grosio, go on rightward and reach the Mortirolo Pass with an elevation gain of 1.204 m in 16,3 Km. Total average time: 2,303 h. From the Mortirolo Pass From Mortirolo Pass ride at about 30 minutes on asphalt road to Alpe Varadega (sign Step 1 - 1.945 m height). Then you follow a bumpy military road and after some steep sections and some switchbacks you gain an elevation of 2.345 m, where the road gets even bumpier and rocky and bike carrying is possible. Then you finally reach a 2.550 m height, just a little bit below Mount Varadega (presence of fortifications). The hard climb is an appropriate prelude to the difficult descent. THE DESCENT From Mount Varadega to Grosio 10,7 km 1.852 m Follow the first section to the junction at Cross de l'Alp, the trail is rocky and bumpy, with a plenty of switchbacks. Keep following the trail and enter the wood. At this point the track is somehow flowing, but the presence of a lot of hairpins and switchbacks still reminds you why this route is called Tornantissima (literally full of hairpins, ndt.). Once arrived at the baiton (sign - Step 3 1.450 m height) briefly follow a dirt road and soon turn right on a mule track that goes down to Grosio.
Five Crazy Down Tornantissima
Itinerary details
Mountain bike
6:43 h
32.65 km
1895 m
Difficult
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Find your stay, events, services, passes, forecast & webcams
Trying to organise your holiday in Bormio? We've put all the information you need in one place: from which mountain passes are open (so you can plan your journey), to our guide to what's on during your stay, information on which lifts are open, and the opening times for QC Terme Bormio and Bormio Terme. You can also find a list of local restaurants and equipment rental shops.
