Conquer the Dolomites

The Dolomites are where I truly test myself. Every climb, every descent—this route demands everything from a cyclist," says Annie Solheim. "It’s not just about speed; it’s about resilience, precision, and the sheer thrill of conquering one of the most beautiful rides in the world.

Nestled in the heart of the Italian Dolomites, Annie Solheim’s favorite ride is nothing short of breathtaking. Known as the Alta Via del Dolomiti, this challenging route combines dramatic mountain climbs, sweeping descents, and peaceful forested stretches. It’s where Annie tests her limits, focusing on endurance, power, and climbing skills—all while surrounded by some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes.

1. The Selva Climb

The ride begins with the iconic Selva Climb, a 12-kilometer ascent through dense forests and rocky switchbacks that make every kilometer a test of endurance. The climb is steep and steady, offering no easy grades to relax—just a consistent, challenging push to the top. Annie loves the Selva Climb for its rhythm and how it builds power right from the start. It’s here that she tunes into her breathing, settles her pace, and lets the gradient guide her effort.

Each turn reveals new scenery, from tall pine trees to sweeping views of the valley below, making the effort more rewarding with each pedal stroke. The climb’s steady gradient allows cyclists to settle into a groove, but it demands focus and stamina. For Annie, the Selva Climb is all about finding that inner drive, and by the time you reach the top, you’ll feel stronger and ready for whatever the next part of the journey has to offer.

2. Monte Forno Pass

Monte Forno Pass is the heart of this ride, a towering 18-kilometer ascent that winds through rugged cliffs and stark alpine landscapes. Known for its dramatic hairpin turns, this climb pushes riders to their limits, with sections hitting a grueling 10% gradient. Annie often tackles this pass with intense focus, using its steepest pitches to build leg power and mental resilience. The Monte Forno demands strategic pacing; Annie advises conserving energy for the final kilometers, where the gradient intensifies.

Every switchback brings you higher, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and sprawling green valleys below. For cyclists who thrive on challenging terrain, Monte Forno Pass offers the kind of physical and visual rewards that make every effort worthwhile. The summit, with its expansive view of the Dolomites, provides a sense of accomplishment that few climbs can rival, and Annie believes it’s one of the most beautiful summits in all of Europe.

3. Lago di Carezza Descent

After the rigorous ascent of Monte Forno, the Lago di Carezza descent is a welcome change, providing a chance to recharge while taking in the area’s natural beauty. Spanning 15 kilometers, this descent allows riders to gain speed and unwind a bit, making it one of Annie’s favorite parts of the route.

The path winds down toward the lake, revealing vibrant turquoise waters against the rugged landscape—a surreal sight for any cyclist.Known for its tight curves and fast straightaways, the descent requires precision and focus, especially for those reaching speeds of 50 km/h or more. For Annie, it’s the perfect training ground for honing her technical handling skills at high speed. The descent towards Lago di Carezza combines the thrill of fast riding with the serenity of nature, offering a balanced, meditative experience in contrast to the intensity of the climbs.

4. Val di Fassa Forest Trail

The Val di Fassa Forest Trail offers a refreshing interlude in the ride, guiding cyclists through 10 kilometers of lush, shaded paths with gentle grades. This forested stretch is ideal for recovery, allowing riders to soak in the tranquility of the surroundings while pedaling at a steady, comfortable pace. Annie particularly enjoys this section as it offers a mental and physical breather after the grueling climbs, helping her refocus and enjoy the ride’s quieter side.

The gentle incline of the Val di Fassa trail makes it an accessible, relaxed segment, perfect for riders who want to take in the sights at a slower pace. Tall trees, cool shade, and the soft sounds of nature make this part of the route uniquely serene. It’s a moment of calm amid the demands of the Dolomites, a place to catch your breath, hydrate, and mentally prepare for the route’s final ascent.

5. Val di Fassa Forest Trail

The ride finishes with a powerful climb up the iconic Sella Pass, a short but intense 5-kilometer stretch that demands both physical and mental resilience. Known for its tight ramps and high-altitude views, the Sella Pass tests every rider’s endurance as they power through its steep grades. Annie often uses this final push to fine-tune her climbing technique and build finishing strength, finding motivation in the panoramic views that await at the summit.

The Sella Pass encapsulates the spirit of the entire route: challenging yet immensely rewarding. With the views expanding in every direction as you climb, this final ascent offers a triumphant end to an epic ride. By the time you reach the top, you’ll feel the satisfaction of completing one of the Dolomites' most iconic climbs. It’s a fitting end that leaves every cyclist with a sense of pride and accomplishment, much like Annie feels every time she conquers this route.