La Leggendaria Charly Gaul

The granfondo celebrating the Angel of the Mountain

La Leggendaria Charly Gaul is one of the most beloved and challenging cycling granfondos in Italy. Every year in late July, the historic center of Trento transforms into the headquarters for thousands of amateur cyclists ready to conquer the slopes of Monte Bondone, the city's iconic mountain. Established in 2006, the event honors the memory of Charly Gaul, the Luxembourgish champion nicknamed the "Angel of the Mountain," who famously triumphed during the 1956 Giro d'Italia stage on the Bondone, held amidst a freezing snowstorm that decimated the peloton.

The route and the climbs

The race starts in the picturesque Piazza Duomo, in the medieval heart of Trento, at the foot of the San Vigilio Cathedral. From there, participants head towards the Valle dei Laghi before tackling the final ascent to Monte Bondone. Two routes are available:

• Granfondo: approximately 141 km with 4,000 meters of elevation gain, featuring a double climb of the Bondone, reserved for the most seasoned athletes.
• Mediofondo: approximately 57 km, featuring the classic climb to Monte Bondone with the finish line in the village of Vason.

The finish at high altitude, amidst the pastures and alpine scenery of the Bondone, is the most emotional moment of the day: the very same hairpin bends that cemented Charly Gaul's place in cycling history sixty years ago.

A cycling weekend in Trento

The event, part of the prestigious international UCI Gran Fondo World Series, is more than just a race; it is a true weekend dedicated to cycling. Alongside the Sunday granfondo, there are side events such as time trials and vintage cycling re-enactments, creating a festive atmosphere that draws enthusiasts from all over Europe. The event is organized by ASD Charly Gaul in collaboration with the Municipality of Trento and local partners.

Trento and the Trentino-Alto Adige region

Set in the capital of Trentino-Alto Adige, La Leggendaria Charly Gaul combines sport with local discovery. Trento, an elegant city of art nestled along the Adige River, offers cyclists and their companions a wealth of history, from the Buonconsiglio Castle to the Renaissance city center, while Monte Bondone provides breathtaking views of the Dolomites. The 2026 edition holds special significance as it marks the 70th anniversary of Charly Gaul's historic feat at the 1956 Giro d'Italia.