ヴィラサンティーナの峠・トップ15

The hardest hill in Europe, a title that may not correspond to the absolute truth, but which was not assigned by chance; probably the hardest climb ever faced by the Great Cycling. If you want to face this climb I think you know what you are getting into... I can only wish you good luck and assure you that the satisfaction it gives is unique

Sella Chianzutan is a pass in the Carnic Prealps at around 950 meters above sea level. It can be reached from both San Francesco and Tolmezzo: the latter is the toughest side, although the gradients rarely exceed 10%. Between 2010 and 2020, it was tackled three times by the Giro d'Italia: the first to pass through here were Ludovic Turpin, Sebastian Henao and Giovanni Visconti.

Never too steep or busy the Sella Chianzutan rewards cyclists with a nice view at the top. Most of the climb coming from Tolmezzo is spent in the forest, which means few views on the surrounding mountains but also cooling shade. The descent towards Pozzis (and further to San Francesco) allows for incredible speeds!

A beautiful route, little traffic.

A beautiful route, little traffic.

I particularly liked this climb.

Beautiful road surrounded by nature but you have to be careful when riding the bike as the asphalt is not perfect.

At the top of the "Sella Chianzutan" pass there is a real sculpture park that invites you to linger and look at art. You can also see relics from past snowy winters of the former ski area.