Maratona dles Dolomites

Back in 1987, there were 166 participants - in recent years, over 9,000 cyclists from various nations have taken part, crossing several Alpine passes on their bikes: Passo Campolongo, Passo Pordoi, Passo Sella, Passo Gardena, Passo Giau, Passo Valparola and Mür dl Giat. At 2,244 metres above sea level, the Passo Sella is just about the highest crossing. This well-organised cycle race takes place on a Sunday. Every participant (aged 18 and over) must possess a medical certificate confirming physical fitness for cycling, in accordance with the Ministerial Decree D.M.V. 18.02.1982.

The number of participants for the 2026 cycling marathon is limited and divided equally between Italy and abroad. The race focuses on sustainability initiatives, such as the Green Angels - mechanics on electric bicycles - a guarded bicycle park, the zero-kilometre medal (handcrafted by local artisans from natural materials like stone pine and stone), and the Maratona dish, prepared using local ingredients from the region. "Pax - Peace" is the theme of the 2026 edition.

The Maratona dles Dolomites, a Ladin name, offers three courses to choose from. The race always starts in La Villa in Alta Badia. Afterwards, the Maratona Course (138 km and 4,230 metres of elevation gain) leads over all the passes. The Middle Course (106 km and 3,130 metres of elevation gain) avoids the 15% gradient on the Passo Giau, and the Sellaronda Course (55 km and 1,780 metres of elevation gain) tackles only four Dolomites passes.

The Maratona dles Dolomites cycle race, sponsored by the Italian energy and gas company Enel and supported by the province of South Tyrol and the holiday region Alta Badia, relies on the support of many clubs and volunteers. Another cycling event for everyone takes place a few weeks earlier: the Sellaronda Bike Day.