There are three routes to the top of the Stelvio. The route from Bormio is very difficult, gaining 1557 meters (5108 ft) in 21 kilometers (13 miles). The average gradient is 7.3%, but there are extended sections of more than 9%, and it gets as steep as 14% at one point. The northern and eastern approaches are even more difficult.
The Stelvio is often included in the Giro d'Italia, Italy's grand tour. The Giro is held each May, so there is still lots of snow on the Stelvio. Stage 16 of the 2014 Giro went over the Stelvio in a blizzard. Stage 20 of the 2012 Giro came up Bormio side to finish at the top.
The Stelvio is famous for its switchback turns. There are 39 switchbacks if you ride up from Bormio, and they are all numbered in decreasing order. The pavement is good to excellent, and even though you are above the tree line, you are on the shady side of the mountain if you ride up in the morning. The downside of the climb is that there is a lot of traffic as well as seven tunnels that you must ride through. The tunnels are one lane wide and can be wet, but there are much better now than in the past. The pavement is very good and the tunnels are now lit. The Giro was the reason for the improvements.
My recommendation is to be a wimp and take lights for your bike. Imagine meeting a full size tour bus in one of these tunnels. I never ride during the daytime with lights, but I made sure that my bike had both front and rear flashing lights. It give me a modest degree of comfort. Apparently, everyone else was comfortable without lights.
The Stelvio would be one of my favorite rides if it were not for the tunnels and the traffic (especially the motorcycles). As it is, I will just check it off my bucket list.
Looking down the north side
The top of the Stelvio looks like a three ring circus
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