Legendary Climbs in the Monviso Lands – Montemale Stage

A jewel of a climb on closed roads

The Legendary Climbs in the Monviso Lands are a major celebration of cycle tourism that transforms the alpine roads of the Cuneo area into an exclusive territory for cyclists, thanks to the closure of roads to motorized traffic. The Montemale di Cuneo stage, in the Grana Valley, is one of the most beloved climbs on the calendar: a short but demanding route, described by the organizers as "a true little jewel." It takes place in the municipality of Montemale di Cuneo, in the Province of Cuneo, in the heart of Piedmont.

The route

The climb to Montemale starts from Borgata San Giorgio and measures approximately 3.5 kilometers, with 320 meters of elevation gain, an average gradient of around 9.5%, and maximum peaks of 14%. The various wide hairpin bends require great determination and offer evocative views of the Grana Valley and the surrounding mountains. During the event, the road is closed to traffic, allowing you to tackle every curve in complete safety.

• Length: approx. 3.5 km
• Elevation gain: 320 meters
• Average gradient: approx. 9.5%
• Maximum gradient: 14%
• Start: Borgata San Giorgio

A climb in the history of the Giro

Montemale di Cuneo is no ordinary climb: it has entered the history of great cycling, having been included in the 14th stage of the 1999 Giro d'Italia. Tackling it today on a closed road means retracing the steps of champions, in an experience that combines the effort of pedaling with the charm of sporting memory.

The Monviso Lands

The initiative is promoted by Terres Monviso, a wide-area strategy that brings together local Mountain Unions with the technical support of Velo Caraglio and the Vigor Cycling Team, as part of the European Interreg ALCOTRA Italy-France program. The Legendary Climbs are part of a calendar that involves the valleys of the Cuneo area, from the Po Valley to the Grana Valley, up to the Stura Valley and the Varaita Valley. In the first four editions, the event has already attracted over 14,000 cyclists, confirming a success that grows year after year.

Why participate

The Montemale di Cuneo stage is perfect for those looking for a short but intense climb to tackle in freedom, away from cars. Participation is completely free and open to everyone: a unique opportunity to experience the Grana Valley on your bicycle and discover an authentic corner of cycle-friendly Piedmont.