If you can’t wait for the first climb, better take the fork to the Passo Gardena circuit alternative. The path develops gradually upwards on a well-groomed woodland path, always in sight of the cable car. You only have to pay attention to a few turn offs, allowing you to focus on the battle waged between body and mountain. You will need to muster your energy on the finishing straight and with the thought of the well-deserved, refreshing, cold drink in sight, overcoming the last metres’ elevation gain will be child’s play. After a quick restorative break at the Mountain Lounge, join the Passo Gardena circuit again.

The first 5 km are a bike path set in an urban environment between Santa Cristina and Selva di Val Gardena, bringing bikers right up to the entrance of the Vallunga. Turn onto a path below the ruins of Wolkenstein castle towards the Juac Hut. The path leading to the highest point of the tour, at 2,120 m, is speckled with mesmerising ponds and clearings – time waits for no man, but there’s no harm in stopping for a break at the Firenze or Odles Hut along the way. Just a stone’s throw away lies an alternative route to the Seceda; if not, stick to the woodland path coasting the oldest church in Val Gardena, the San Giacomo Church, and head back to Selva di Val Gardena

Head off from Selva di Val Gardena towards the Passo Sella on the bike path for what is a long and extensive MTB circuit. From Plan onwards, the terrain becomes steeper and steeper, following an easy woodland path via Plan de Gralba to the Mountain Resort on the Passo Sella. Cycle past the City of Stones, across the highest point of the tour, just under the Gran Paradiso mountain station; here, the Comici Hut beckons you to stop for a rest (small repair box and e-bike docking station available). The mountain descent features small steep tracks, meadows, and woodland paths. Cycle by the commune of La Selva and continue on the main road to return to Selva di Val Gardena.