マルテル-マルテッロの峠・トップ20

An iconic destination, requiring good training and knowing that even with an e-bike, the last stretch requires pushing (walk mode is a must). A good training ground for honing your riding technique on technical climbs with e-MTB assistance, and tackling the steps with momentum. On the descent, it's safer to walk the first tight switchbacks without risk. With a mountain bike, they're more manageable with a nose press. The next short section, with steps and a short ledge, can be done on foot, taking your time and using the brakes correctly, depending on the grip of the terrain at each point. If desired, you can secure your e-bike with a sliding cord to the metal cable on the wall. I had it with me, but didn't need it. The descent is beautiful. I recommend not taking the path to the 5° Alpini refuge. It's not very pedal-friendly.

Great view over the Zebru valley far into Switzerland, as well as the Königsspitze (Gran Zebru) and the Fornigletscher.

The Zebrù Pass is located at 3,005 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the Zebrù and Cedec valleys. This pass also has a strong historical value, having been a combat zone during the First World War.

Path difficulty S2+ S3, narrow path at times exposed on a surface loosened by stones. Route at the end of July, long initial stretch descending on the snow, clean via ferrata not trivial to follow, there are two landslides that interrupt the path, one is difficult to pass. Route entirely on foot to the Baita dei Pastori. To do it on horseback you must have S3-S4 skills.

At 3,005 meters, Passo Zebrú is a true peak of three thousand meters. If you want to go up here on a mountain bike, you have to be in good physical shape, have good riding technique and not be afraid of heights! From the Pizzini shelter, to the pass, you can do a lot in the saddle, but you have to overcome the difference in central height by pushing hard. The arrival is of great satisfaction and opens to the biker's eyes the great and long valley that awaits him in an unforgettable descent. The climb is exhausting but the panorama of the glacier is incredible!! There are still many relics from World War II everywhere. Remains of rusty barbed wire or cans. But the highlight is the descent to Bormio.

Shortly before the Rifugio Pizzini we take the path towards Passo Zebru, which is still manageable in the lower section, but forces you to push higher (about 150 meters of accumulated elevation gain). But the effort is worth it, because the view at the 3000 meter high Passo Zebru is spectacular! The descent is one of the best that the area around Bormio has to offer: it is a fairly exposed trail in places. One place is even secured with a rope, the bicycle has to be carried here for about 20 m. For experienced riders, this trail is definitely a challenge!

Nice pass between Refugio Pizzini and Rifugio V Alpini... Magnificent views down to the Zebru valley

The cable car and the lifts make beautiful hikes possible. If you come straight from the valley, you should consider that your circulation will be more difficult at high altitudes without getting used to it.