By Staff • 2019 Giro Classico
Follow our journey on the 2019 Giro d’Italia bike trip. The Italian Grand Tour never disappoints with its epic stages, huge mountains, changing weather and great Italian culture. Our trip saw the key stage in the last 2 weeks..
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Arrival of the grand tour on Stage 12
It was in Pinerolo on the steep and narrow paved Via Principi d’Acaja (450 m with an average 14% gradient and peaks of 20%) that we first saw the Italy Grand Tour. From there the mountain stages came, thick and fast!
First it was the Aosta Valley, we enjoyed scenic climbs among wineries. Our non-cyclists had fun too, on the cable car to Monte Bianco on the Italian-French border, before seeing a stage finish.
We enjoyed glorious weather in our opening week, seeing finishes, starts and mountain passes.
Short transfers in luxury transport
#GIRO had a long transfer stage to Como before their final rest day. Our luxury transport took us to Lake Como and we saw the race at the top of Cima di Sormano. The pros took the easier way compared to some of guests climbing the Muro di Sormano, literally meaning “Wall”. Average gradient of 17% and maximum of 25%. 😮 Nasty! Look out for the climb in the final monument of the year, Giro Lombardia.
Queen stage and road closures
Unfortunately, the weather closed in 🌨️ as we headed off to Bormio for the Queen Stage. #GIRO had to modify the course as Passo Gavia was unable to be cleared of snow. Avalanches and atrocious weather was deemed too dangerous for riders. Our contingency plans kicked into action and guests stayed dry and we rode some alternative roads that were equally spectacular. Some took the scenic railway into Switzerland to St Moritz.
For those that wanted to climb Mortirolo, all made it to the summit. Congratulations! We managed to avoid the wet stuff. Our Piccolo Stelvio climb was a great alternative for the closed Stelvio pass ⛔, which was yet to open this season due to a late dump of snow and possible avalanches.
Our guests’ safety is our highest priority.
Riding the Dolomites was a highlight
From the Valtellina valley we headed to the dramatic towers of the Dolomites 😲. We stayed on race course and rode a spectacular loop over 3 climbs, to see Chaves take his stage win. Our shorter option took the more direct route over Passo Rolle.
Quality accommodation at wineries and castles
Like our first hotel, we finished at a historical villa with the added bonus of it being home of the Tommasi Family Winery in the Valpolicella area, ranked Italy’s second most popular region of wines 🍷.
We extend our thanks to our guests who joined us at the 102nd Giro d’Italia. It’s also a pleasure helping guests celebrate their birthdays 🍾. We know who you are 😜.
