Monte Zoncolan

Monte Zoncolan is a mountain peak in the Carnic Alps standing at 1,750 meters with three separate climbing routes accessible from nearby villages. The paved roads ascending from Ovaro, Sutrio, and Priola give cyclists different entry points to reach the summit.

The mountain entered professional cycling's spotlight in 2003 when it was included in the Giro d'Italia road race. Since then, it has remained a key stage that tests the strength and skill of the world's top cyclists.

Monte Zoncolan draws cyclists and sports fans who come to witness or attempt one of Italy's toughest road climbs. The mountain has become a gathering place where athletes push themselves against steep, relentless slopes.

Visitors should expect steep sections and numerous hairpin turns as they approach the summit along any of the three routes. The climb from Ovaro offers the longest approach if you want to build endurance on the mountain.

Some stretches of road feature grades reaching 22 percent, placing it among the toughest climbs anywhere. These extreme slopes are especially intense near the upper sections where the gradient never relents.