Stelvio Pass

The Stelvio Pass, Italy's highest paved road at 2,758m, offers the ultimate alpine challenge with 48 hairpin bends on its eastern ascent from Prato allo Stelvio. This iconic climb spans 21.5km at an average gradient of 7.4%, peaking at 14%—a test that is 35% steeper than the average Alpine pass. It has featured in 15 Giro d'Italia editions, most recently in 2020 when winner Tao Geoghegan Hart used it to gain a decisive 40-second lead. Compared to the gravel climbs of Strade Bianche, the Stelvio demands pure endurance over paved switchbacks, making it a must-ride for cyclists seeking altitude and history.