Keen runners and cyclists can choose between four events taking place in Val Gardena this summer.
The Italian resort, which is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has three main villages – Ortisei (1,236 m), Santa Cristina (1,428 m) and Selva di Val Gardena (1,563 m) – in the heart of the Dolomites. Between them they offer more than 600km of bike trails.
Sellaronda Bike Day & the Dolomites Saslong Half Marathon
The Sellaronda Bike day event on 11 June 2022 is held over 53 km, with a 1,600m elevation gain for those willing to complete the whole distance. Cyclists of all ages and levels can enjoy the free to enter cycling tour on roads with no traffic as the Sellaronda and its passes around the Sella Group will be closed to vehicles. There is another summer Sellaronda Bike day is 17 September 2022.
For runners, the Saslong Half Marathon also takes place on 11 June. For experienced runners this route, stretches from its start point at Monte Pana, extending between 1624 and 2363m, with a 900m elevation.
After reaching the Comici Hut the athletes will run across the City of Rocks to Passo Sella where they will find a breathtaking view across the Marmolada. The asphalt-free trail winds its way across an environmentally protected area.
HERO Südtirol Dolomites
The HERO Südtirol Dolomites in Selva Val Gardena on 18 June represents one of the hardest mountain bike events for amateurs and professional cyclists. All participants can choose between two distances stretching around the Passo Sella and Sassolungo. The classic distance comprises 60km and 3,200m elevation gain, and the marathon distance boasts 86km and a total of 4,500m elevation gain.
The competition starts and finishes in Selva Val Gardena and both the classic and marathon races will take riders around the Passo Sella at the feet of the Sellaronda skiing circuit.
The day before the HERO Südtirol Dolomites, children can take part in the ‘HERO Kids event which also starts in Selva Val Gardena and is a great event for younger cycling fans
Val Gardena Family Bike Day
Part of the “Respect the Dolomites” projects, the first edition of the Val Gardena Family Bike Day will be held on Saturday, 25 June 2022. A day dedicated to cycling, explore Val Gardena in a green and sustainable way on two wheels.
The route starts from Ortisei and takes in Plan, part of Selva Val Gardena, cutting across picturesque S. Cristina. The itinerary features different check points and sightseeing highlights, as well as spots where you can refill water bottle and tank up on energy with a quick snack. Collect stamps at the checkpoints and sightseeing spots – only three required – to receive a small treat at the end of the itinerary.
Categories: Italy