Passo Giau is one of the most iconic and visually stunning mountain passes in the Dolomites, located in northeastern Italy. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and challenging cycling routes, it stands at an elevation of 2,234 meters and serves as a crucial link between the towns of Cortina d’Ampezzo and Selva di Cadore.

From Cortina d’Ampezzo, the ascent to Passo Giau is approximately 10 kilometers long, featuring an average gradient of around 9.3%. This side is challenging due to its consistent steep sections and few opportunities for respite. The road surface is good. From Codalonga, the climb is sometimes known as the 10/10 climb – 10 kilometers with an average gradient of 10%.

The climb offers spectacular views of some of the Dolomites’ most famous peaks, including the Nuvolau and the Averau. The road winds through stunning alpine meadows and rugged mountain landscapes, providing a picturesque backdrop that is quintessentially Dolomitic. Near the top, you are almost guarenteed to see or hear marmots.

Passo Giau is a regular feature in the Giro d’Italia and other professional cycling races, known for its grueling climbs that have determined the outcome of many stages. It was the fourth climb out of eight in the High Altitude World Championships 2024. It holds a mythical status among cycling enthusiasts who come to tackle the same roads ridden by professional athletes.

If we were to pick one Dolomite col for a bucket list, this would be the one.