One of Europe's biggest sportives, La Stelvio Santini, is expanding with the addition of a new gravel event for 2026.
Mark your calendars for Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 June 2026: that is the weekend of the 14th edition of La Stelvio Santini.
Weekend, indeed, because this year's big news is that the event is expanding. Alongside the iconic road course on Sunday, a brand-new Gravel event debuts on Saturday, offering the possiblility of a unique double-header for cyclists up for the challenge.
Two gravel routes will be on offer, 44km and 70km in length, showcasing the stunning natural landscapes of the Cancano lakes area. The course has been created in collaboration with 3T, a brand whose identity has been closely linked to the world of off-road cycling since its beginnings.
La Stelvio Santini is one of Italy - and Europe's - most celebrated amateur cycling challenges. Every year it attracts thousands of cyclists from all over the world, all aiming to conquer one of cycling's sacred giants, the Stelvio Pass.
> Gran Fondo Stelvio Santini report: Dalany falls down a hill and climbs up a mountain >
And from 2026, riders can combine the road ride with a new gravel event that will offer a fresh perspective on the region's spectacular mountain scenery.
"This new form of cycling is growing strongly in our region right now," commented Mario Zangrando, the driving force behind La Stelvio Santini.
"We are excited to offer participants a gravel experience that is probably unique in the discipline, as it develops entirely at high altitude."
As with the road event, the gravel ride will start and finish in Bormio. The route winds its way through the beautiful gravel roads of Alta Valtellina, from Valdisotto to Valfurva and on to Valdidentro and the Cancano Lakes.
Two route options are available to suit different fitness levels: a shorter 44km route with 1,400m of climbing, and a longer 70km route with 2,000m of elevation gain.
A highlight of the long route is the ascent to the Cancano Lakes via the Boscopiano gravel climb. It is a demanding yet scenic and rewarding climb that will delight those who take it on.
The event adopts a format now widely appreciated in the gravel community. Participants are free to choose their pace and preferred riding style, while selected timed sections will determine the rankings and reward the best performances on both climbs and rolling terrain.
The long route will feature two timed sectors, while the short route will have one.
Registrations are now officially open. Several registration options will be available: Road event only from €100, Gravel event only from €60, or a combined Road + Gravel package at the special rate of €120.
The road event will once again offer the popular "pair entry" option for those who want to share this memorable challenge with a partner, friend or family member.
For registrations and further information visit the event website at lastelviosantini.com.
0 Comments