Avaglio Muina Sella Valcalda

CARESSING CARNIA

Although it’s listed as one of our easier routes, for the average cyclist it’s still medium to difficult! As we explore Carnia, we’ll pass through typical little villages in the Degano valley, nicknamed “valley of the monsters” for the three climbs that are among the most difficult in the world (Stentaria, Zoncolan and Crostis).

As you go by, you’ll notice the wonderfully typical buildings of the valley, with steeply-sloping roofs and unusual tiles; although we’re cycling at the foot of these major climbs, we’re still gaining considerable altitude.

The route also takes us to climbs that have always featured in the Giro d’Italia, such as the ascent to Avaglio from Villa Santina, the Muina climb, famous for the sight of the Contador team car going up in smoke, and Sella Valcalda, the crossroads of practically every stage of the Giro.

As we always say, “SOFT” in Carnia should be understood in a certain way and undertaken in the right gear, as there’s no such thing as a climb that’s too hard, only incorrect gears (Zoncolan and the holy monsters obviously excepted).