Passo Fedaia (Canazei)

Climb Description

Passo Fedaia from Canazei is the much easier and also less interesting side of the climb. It is popular with cyclists and hikers, providing access to the Marmolada peak and has been used at times in the Giro d'Italia.

Passo Fedaia is situated at the foot of the Marmolada - the highest peak in the Dolomites, which naturally lends it some gravitas. It was also part of the front line during the First World War. Italian forces faced Austrian troops high up in the mountain peaks. Here some of the most harrowing battles of a horrific conflict took place. Indeed, hiking in the mountains above the Fedaia you occasionally stumble across some rusted barbed wire which has been released from the glaciers, having been frozen for over 100 years. There is also a small museum at the top of the pass giving an overview of the conflict.

From a cycling perspective, the climb from Canazei is spoilt somewhat by a number of tunnels and it never really opens out to offer fine views, until you reach the lakes near to the top. The gradient is quite steady on this side, with no real difficulties for experienced cyclists. Both sides have been used though in the Giro d'Italia.

Passo Fedaia is best climbed from late May until early October.

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