The Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks of Lavaredo) are the Dolomites’ most recognizable landmarks—three massive rock towers that appear on countless postcards, book covers, and cycling dreams. Riding to their base is a pilgrimage every serious cyclist should make.
The Icon
These three dramatic peaks—Cima Grande (2,999m), Cima Ovest (2,973m), and Cima Piccola (2,857m)—have defined the Dolomites’ image worldwide. Their distinctive profile, with near-vertical north faces rising above green meadows, represents alpine majesty at its finest.
For cyclists, the road to Rifugio Auronzo at their base delivers both a challenging climb and access to one of Earth’s most spectacular viewpoints.
Route Details
The Toll Road from Misurina
- Distance: 7.0 km
- Elevation Gain: 420 m
- Average Gradient: 6.0%
- Maximum Gradient: 12%
The only road to the Tre Cime begins at Lago di Misurina and climbs via a private toll road to Rifugio Auronzo at 2,320 meters. The climb is relatively short but includes some punchy gradients, and the altitude makes the final kilometers demanding.
Full Route from Cortina d’Ampezzo
- Distance: 30+ km
- Elevation Gain: 1,200+ m
For a complete experience, start in Cortina d’Ampezzo and climb via Passo Tre Croci to Misurina before the final push to the Tre Cime. This creates a proper day’s cycling in one of the world’s most beautiful locations.
Important Practical Information
Toll Road: The road to Rifugio Auronzo is privately operated and charges a toll (around €25-30 per vehicle). Cyclists typically pay less or may be free—check current policies.
Opening Hours: The road has restricted hours and is closed overnight. Plan to complete your ascent and descent within operating times.
Season: Generally open June through October, weather permitting. Snow can close the road even in early summer.
Traffic: The road is narrow and sees significant tourist traffic in summer. Early morning starts are strongly recommended.
What Makes It Special
The Views: The Tre Cime’s north faces are among the most dramatic sights in the Alps. From Rifugio Auronzo, you’re directly below these massive walls, which catch the light differently throughout the day.
The Photography: This is one of the world’s most photographed mountain scenes. Sunrise and sunset create extraordinary light on the pale dolomite rock.
The Hiking Access: From the rifugio, hiking trails circle the peaks and access additional viewpoints. Many cyclists plan extended time to explore on foot.
The History: The Tre Cime were a major battlefield in World War I, and evidence of fortifications remains. They’ve also been the scene of legendary alpine climbing achievements.
Giro d’Italia Connection
The Giro d’Italia has finished stages at the Tre Cime on several occasions, most memorably in 2013 when Vincenzo Nibali attacked on the steep final kilometers to take a crucial stage victory. The dramatic backdrop makes for spectacular race television.
Best Time to Ride
June through September offers reliable access, though June can still see late snow.
Very early morning (first opening) provides the best chance to avoid traffic and enjoy the peaks in calm conditions.
Autumn brings stable weather and smaller crowds but shorter days.
Avoid peak summer weekends when traffic can be heavy.
Practical Strategy
Start Very Early: The combination of altitude, traffic, and limited road width means early starts are essential. Aim to be at Misurina when the toll road opens.
Gearing: Standard compact gearing works fine. A 34x28 handles the gradients comfortably.
Hydration and Fuel: The final climb is short enough not to require extensive nutrition, but the altitude will dehydrate you. The rifugio offers refreshments.
Clothing: Even in summer, it can be cold at 2,320 meters. Pack layers for the descent and any hiking you plan.
Camera: This is non-negotiable. Few cycling destinations offer such guaranteed visual rewards.
From Misurina to the Peaks
The toll road from Misurina climbs through a mix of forest and open terrain. The final kilometers offer increasingly dramatic views of the Tre Cime appearing above. The road surface is generally good but can be rough in patches.
The climb culminates at Rifugio Auronzo, where you’re directly at the base of the peaks. The restaurant and facilities here allow you to refuel while enjoying one of cycling’s greatest viewpoints.
Extending Your Visit
The Tre Cime Loop: From Rifugio Auronzo, a 9km hiking trail circles the peaks, offering views from all angles. This adds 2-3 hours but is highly recommended if time allows.
Lago di Misurina: The beautiful lake at the road’s base is worth stopping at both ascending and descending. The views of the Tre Cime reflected in the lake are classic Dolomites imagery.
Multi-Pass Adventure: Combine with nearby Passo Monte Croce (Kreuzbergpass) or Passo Tre Croci for a full Dolomites day.
The Experience
Riding to the Tre Cime is about more than cycling. It’s about accessing one of Earth’s most extraordinary landscapes under your own power. The climb from Misurina isn’t the longest or hardest in the Dolomites, but the destination elevates it beyond mere sport.
As the three towers come into view, growing larger with each switchback, you understand why this landscape has captivated people for centuries. The final arrival at Rifugio Auronzo, with the peaks towering directly above, is a moment that justifies any cycling pilgrimage.
Why You Should Ride It
The Tre Cime di Lavaredo represent the Dolomites at their most iconic. Every cyclist who loves mountains should stand at their base at least once. The climb itself is satisfying, the views are unmatched, and the sense of accomplishment—reaching these peaks under pedal power—stays with you.
This isn’t a climb about suffering or statistics. It’s about beauty, about experiencing one of nature’s masterpieces, about earning your place among the few who’ve cycled to the feet of these legendary towers.
Some climbs test your legs. The Tre Cime feed your soul.
