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This full-day loop from Follina climbs the historic San Boldo Pass, threads five rock-hewn tunnels and drops to the wind-swept shores of Lake Santa Croce. Expect steep climbs, technical descents and rewarding views — plan for 2–8 hours depending on pace.
This full-day loop from Follina climbs the historic San Boldo Pass, threads five rock-hewn tunnels and drops to the wind-swept shores of Lake Santa Croce. Expect steep climbs, technical descents and rewarding views — plan for 2–8 hours depending on pace.
You crest the last hairpin and the road exhales — stone tunnels ahead cut into the rock like teeth, the valley below opening toward a sheet of glass where windsurfers tack off shore. This loop leaves Follina and climbs through Tovena onto the San Boldo Pass (≈700 m), riding the historic Strada dei Cento Giorni: five carved tunnels, tight switchbacks and raw, exposed limestone that demands attention and rewards with long descents.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by ITALY CYCLING TOUR · Follina, Veneto
You crest the last hairpin and the road exhales — stone tunnels ahead cut into the rock like teeth, the valley below opening toward a sheet of glass where windsurfers tack off shore. This loop leaves Follina and climbs through Tovena onto the San Boldo Pass (≈700 m), riding the historic Strada dei Cento Giorni: five carved tunnels, tight switchbacks and raw, exposed limestone that demands attention and rewards with long descents.
The pass is a recent relic of World War I engineering; Austro-Hungarian troops built the access road rapidly to move men and materiel, and panels along the route recall that concentrated effort. Geologically, the climb crosses the Prealps’ folded limestone, where gutters and cliffs give way to chestnut and conifer groves. The route then drops toward Trichiana and threads north to Belluno’s foothills before skirting Lago di Santa Croce — a deep, clear lake popular with sailors and windsurfers — and looping past the twin Revine lakes back toward Follina.
Practical guidance: expect 2–8 hours on the bike depending on pace and stops, sustained climbing and technical descents. Use low gears for the climb and strong brakes for the tunnels and rapid drops. Carry lights and reflective gear for the tunnels, hydrate at Valdobbiadene or village kiosks, and allow extra time for lake-side detours and photo stops. Road surfaces are mixed asphalt; watch for truck and tourist traffic near the pass. Start early to avoid afternoon wind and to catch quieter roads for the climb.
moderate.
2–8 hours.
Good aerobic fitness for sustained climbs and several hours on the bike; comfortable with descending at speed.
The full loop can take 2–8 hours depending on stops; expect several hundred meters of climbing with a high point around 700 m at San Boldo Pass.
They are passable but narrow and with sharp bends — use lights, ride single file when traffic approaches, and keep to the right where possible.
Bike rental shops are available in larger nearby towns (e.g., Treviso, Belluno); confirm fit and gear with the provider in advance if you prefer not to bring your own bike.
Not ideal for complete beginners — riders should be comfortable with sustained climbs, technical descents and riding on mixed-volume paved roads.
San Boldo’s road was constructed during World War I by Austro-Hungarian forces in a rapid engineering effort; informational panels and a small local exhibition mark that history.
The area sees seasonal recreational pressure on lake shores and trails; keep to paved routes, pack out waste and respect shoreline vegetation to minimize impact.
ITALY CYCLING TOUR operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You crest the last hairpin and the road exhales — stone tunnels ahead cut into the rock like teeth, the valley below opening toward a sheet of glass where windsurfers tack off shore. This loop leaves Follina and climbs through Tovena onto the San Boldo Pass (≈700 m), riding the historic Strada dei Cento Giorni: five carved tunnels, tight switchbacks and raw, exposed limestone that demands attention and rewards with long descents.
You crest the last hairpin and the road exhales — stone tunnels ahead cut into the rock like teeth, the valley below opening toward a sheet of glass where windsurfers tack off shore. This loop leaves Follina and climbs through Tovena onto the San Boldo Pass (≈700 m), riding the historic Strada dei Cento Giorni: five carved tunnels, tight switchbacks and raw, exposed limestone that demands attention and rewards with long descents.
The pass is a recent relic of World War I engineering; Austro-Hungarian troops built the access road rapidly to move men and materiel, and panels along the route recall that concentrated effort. Geologically, the climb crosses the Prealps’ folded limestone, where gutters and cliffs give way to chestnut and conifer groves. The route then drops toward Trichiana and threads north to Belluno’s foothills before skirting Lago di Santa Croce — a deep, clear lake popular with sailors and windsurfers — and looping past the twin Revine lakes back toward Follina.
Practical guidance: expect 2–8 hours on the bike depending on pace and stops, sustained climbing and technical descents. Use low gears for the climb and strong brakes for the tunnels and rapid drops. Carry lights and reflective gear for the tunnels, hydrate at Valdobbiadene or village kiosks, and allow extra time for lake-side detours and photo stops. Road surfaces are mixed asphalt; watch for truck and tourist traffic near the pass. Start early to avoid afternoon wind and to catch quieter roads for the climb.