Four Dolomite passes, one UNESCO experience

The Sella Ronda is long since more than a ski circuit. In summer, the route around the Sella massif turns into one of the Alps’ best-known activity loops. The tour crosses four Dolomite passes – Sella, Pordoi, Campolongo, and Gardena – linking several valleys and elevations. Whether you’re on a bike, e-bike, or on foot, the panoramas, the proximity to the rock walls, and the geological value make every stage special.

Bike & hike – two variants, one experience

Mountain bikers usually ride counterclockwise. With the Dolomiti Supersummer Pass (approx. €65, as of 2025) you can use almost all summer lifts along the route. That saves elevation gain and makes the loop accessible even to less-trained riders or e-bikers. The full MTB variant is about 53 kilometers long with roughly 3,600 meters of elevation – a demanding circuit for sporty riders. GPX files are available on official portals.

On foot, the Sella Ronda is usually done clockwise. The total distance is about 42 kilometers and can be completed in two to four days depending on fitness. Cable cars or bus connections help with stage changes. The transitions between passes are especially impressive: stony high plateaus, alpine flower meadows, hidden lakes – and again and again views of the massive Dolomite walls.

Sellaronda Bike Day 2025 – car-free through four valleys

A summer highlight is the Sellaronda Bike Day – when the four pass roads are closed to motor traffic. In 2025 it takes place on two dates:

Saturday, 7 June 2025
Saturday, 13 September 2025

On these days the entire route belongs to cyclists. No tolls, no buses, no cars – just you, your bike, and the mountains. Whether you go sporty on a road bike or relaxed on an e-bike, the shared experience is what counts. Closures start at 8:30 am; early starters enjoy the morning calm on the passes and the special light of UNESCO site no. 1237-1.

UNESCO World Heritage: The Sella massif as a geological window

The mighty Sella massif has been part of the UNESCO World Natural Heritage since 2009. The status was granted based on criteria vii (scenic beauty) and viii (geological significance). The massif displays clearly visible depositional layers from the Tethys Sea – including ancient reef rocks, tropical sediments, and traces of tectonic uplift. For geologists the region is an open book; for visitors it’s a panorama with depth.

Route info & planning

The MTB loop is about 53 km with roughly 3,600 m of elevation. Using lifts drastically reduces the climbing.
The hiking loop is about 42 km, technically easy but fitness-demanding – especially in midsummer.
The Dolomiti Supersummer Pass costs around €65 (day ticket, 2025) and covers all relevant lifts on the loop.
Best time for the circuit is mid-June to late September, depending on lift operating schedules.

FAQ – Sella Ronda in summer

When is Sellaronda Bike Day 2025?
On Saturday, 7 June and 13 September 2025. On both days, the four Dolomite passes are car-free – ideal for cyclists of all levels.

How long is the mountain bike loop around the Sella?
The classic Sellaronda MTB route is about 53 km with roughly 3,600 m of elevation gain. With lift support, the loop becomes much more relaxed.

How much is the Dolomiti Supersummer Pass?
The day ticket is €65 (as of 2025) and grants access to most operating summer lifts in the network.

Can you hike the Sella Ronda in a single day?
At around 42 km it’s too long for one day – but it’s well suited to two to four stages, aided by cable car links.