“Raising the bar”. A concept within the sporting world which represents the very foundation of advancement, in addition to the stimulus aimed at improving one’s performance. And it is precisely with this objective in mind that Roberto Galli straps on his helmet and climbs aboard his bike, whether for a race or simply a training session. Dedicated sportsman that he is.
But we’re not talking about tourist cycling, nor about a more traditional form even if the basics remain the same, but about a genuine “extreme sport”, which consists of competing over extraordinary distances aboard road bikes, mountain bikes and hand-bikes. Yet to listen to Roberto it would seem that he regards his adventures as mere “strolls”, or perhaps better, gentle “rides” as part of his everyday routine.
ITINERARY 1
> 180 km x 3820 m height difference
EN. The first loop recommended leaves Chiavenna (333m) and heads for the Passo Spluga (2117m). A climb to be tackled at least once in a cyclist’s life. You then descend towards Splügen, heading towards Thusis and Tiefencastel with moderate ups and downs. There’s a bit of pressure at the Albulapass which is a long climb. But once at the top (2315m) the hard work is complete and you’ll be happy to make your way back from St. Moritz via Maloja (1815m). In total the itinerary measures 180 km with a total height differential of 3,820 metres.
ITINERARY 2
> 328 km x 7600 m height difference
EN. The second itinerary is for the pretty experienced atlete. It can be tackled in stages though, as it totals 328 km with a height differential of 7600m, much of it above 1500m in altitude.Leave Chiavenna for the Passo Spluga, then Splügen, Thusis and Tiefencastel, and once over the Albula (2315m) carry on towards Zernez. From here head for St. Maria (which sometimes hosts the Giro d’Italia) and you pedal on along the Ofenpass (2149m). Up again towards the Umbrailpass (2503m) with a very demanding 13 km with some significant gradients. Here the bold can take on the remaining 3km to the summit of the Stelvio (2758m).And now down to Bormio prepared to tackle another long enough climb that awaits after a break: 40 km which separate us from Livigno. Forcola and Bernina lie ahead, before heading for home via St. Moritz and Maloja.
