Tour d'Ortles

The Tour d'Ortles is a summer road-bike randonnee originating in Merano, South Tyrol, designed for riders who prefer very steep, long days. The complete route spans approximately 250 km with an elevation gain of 5,500 to 5,700 meters, positioning it more as an ultracycling marathon than a standard gran fondo. The extensive loop begins and concludes in Merano, crossing South Tyrol, Lombardy, and Trentino. The most challenging iteration includes the Stelvio, Gavia, Tonale, and Palade/Gampen passes, with locations such as Bormio, Santa Caterina Valfurva, Ponte di Legno, Male, Fondo, Lana, and Merano along the path. A reduced version shortens the event to around 170 km and 2,600 meters of climbing by looping back after the Stelvio via the Umbrail Pass and the Munster valley. Athletic Club Merano is the organizer, and completing the full course is a ride intended for cyclists possessing significant endurance, patience, and a high capacity for discomfort.