Introduction: Into the Heart of the Dolomites

There is an unquestionable magic to the Italian Dolomites that sets them apart from every other alpine mountain range in Western Europe. The towering limestone needles shooting up out of emerald valleys create a vertical world that feels engineered specifically for two wheels. Today was the day we’d all been anticipating: our high mountain pass circuit through South Tyrol. At 06:30am in Eggental (Val d’Ega) near Bolzano, the morning air was crisp and clear. Rich espressos were downed, visor screens wiped clean, and engines brought to life—166 km of legendary pass riding lay directly ahead across Passo Gardena, Passo Campolongo, and Passo Pordoi.

Standing in the hotel courtyard surrounded by pine forests, every rider in our group was buzzing with anticipation. The Dolomites circuit isn’t about rushing to cover raw distance; it’s a sensory rhythm of lean angles, elevation shifts, and absolute riding focus. We strapped down our bags and set off into the morning shadow of the mountains.

Today’s Route

Today’s route was designed as a tight, technical loop around the iconic Sella Massif, focusing entirely on high-altitude pass riding, sweeping switchbacks, and dramatic panoramas across South Tyrol and the Trentino region.

Leaving Eggental, we carved northeast through Val Gardena to Corvara in Badia. From there, we scaled Passo Gardena (2,121m), dropped down toward Passo Campolongo (1,875m) for a high-altitude lunch break, tackled the famous 28 hairpin switchbacks of Passo Pordoi (2,239m), and concluded beneath the misty spires of Catinaccio (Rosengarten) in Cornedo all’Isarco.

The Ride: Passes, Peaks, and Sellaronda Magic

Riding out of Eggental, the valley tarmac was silky smooth and cool from overnight air. By 08:30am, we rolled into Corvara in Badia, situated right at the foot of the massive Sella group. Corvara is the heart of Ladin alpine culture, and parking up surrounded by timber chalets and vertical rock faces set an incredible tone for the morning climbs.

Leaving Corvara, we pointed front wheels directly onto Passo Gardena (2,121m). Gardena winds beneath towering cliffs, offering smooth asphalt and rhythmic third and second-gear bends. Reaching the summit by 09:00am, the panoramic view across Val Gardena was staggering. Standing beside the bikes with engines ticking in the thin air, the sheer grandeur of the spires was unforgettable.

Next up was Passo Campolongo (1,875m), where we paused at 10:00am for an early lunch break above the clouds. Sitting on a wooden terrace overlooking the valleys below, we enjoyed fresh Tyrolean dumplings, local cheeses, espresso, and crisp mountain air before tackling our next challenge.

At 11:00am, we fired up the bikes for Passo Pordoi (2,239m). With 28 numbered hairpins ascending its western ramp, Pordoi is pure motorcycle theatre. Tipping into corner after corner, trailing rear brake and opening throttles past Fausto Coppi’s monument, standing at the summit at 2,239m elevation was the highlight of the day.

By 12:30pm, we descended into the Val di Fassa toward Catinaccio (Cornedo all’Isarco). Soft mountain mist swirled around the Rosengarten spires, providing a dramatic backdrop for our final photos and group selfie before heading to our hotel.

Rider Experiences

The shared excitement during our afternoon stops reflected what a special day this was on the road. Dave (BMW R1250GS) noted: “By the 15th hairpin on Pordoi, everything clicked into place. The cornering rhythm through these mountain passes is unmatched.”

Sarah (Triumph Tiger 900) shared: “As a solo rider joining Wild Roads, I was nervous about riding high alpine cols, but Josh’s corner-marking system gave me total confidence. Passo Gardena was hands-down the best morning I’ve ever had on a bike.” Mark (KTM Super Adventure) added: “Incredible routes, amazing food, and zero navigation stress—just pure riding enjoyment.”

Hotel & Evening

After parking up safely in Cornedo all’Isarco, we met on the hotel terrace at 07:00pm as the setting sun lit up the Rosengarten peaks in deep coral hues—the famous Enrosadira effect unique to the Dolomites. Raising glasses of local Alto Adige red wine and cold beers, we enjoyed a delicious South Tyrolean dinner of homemade pasta, speck ham, and apple strudel while reliving our favorite corners long into the night.

Tomorrow

Tomorrow on Day 6, we leave the High Alps behind and carve southwest toward the sun-soaked Italian Lakes. The sharp alpine switchbacks will give way to gentle lakeside curves, olive groves, and Mediterranean warmth as we edge closer to Tuscany.

Ride This Tour Yourself

Ready to ride the legendary Dolomite passes yourself? Wild Roads handles all routing, lead guiding, luggage transfers, and boutique hotel bookings so you can focus entirely on the ride. Our flagship Twisties & The Tuscan Sun Motorcycle Tour covers 15 epic days across Europe’s greatest riding roads. 2027 tour departures are now officially open for booking!

FAQ

What is the Sellaronda motorcycle loop in the Dolomites?

The Sellaronda is a world-famous circular motorcycle route around the Sella massif in the Italian Dolomites, taking in Passo Gardena, Passo Sella, Passo Pordoi, and Passo Campolongo over ~55 km of technical alpine switchbacks.

How difficult are Passo Gardena and Passo Pordoi for riders?

Both passes feature smooth asphalt and wide lane markings. Passo Pordoi includes 28 hairpins, requiring good slow-speed throttle control and forward vision. Guided tours provide full lead support and pace management.

What motorcycle gear is recommended for the Dolomites in July?

Temperatures range from 28°C in valley bottoms to 12°C on 2,200m pass summits. Layered textile riding gear with removable thermal/waterproof liners and summer gloves works best.

How long is Day 5 of the Twisties & Tuscan Sun tour?

Day 5 covers 166 km (~103 miles). Technical corners, coffee stops in Corvara, lunch at Campolongo, and scenic photo stops make it a full 6 to 7-hour riding experience.

Why choose a guided motorcycle tour in the Italian Alps?

Guided tours remove navigation stress, handle weather-related route adjustments, secure bike parking, and feature lead guides using corner-marking systems so everyone rides comfortably at their own pace.

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