Passo Vaccaria

Overview

Passo Vaccaria is a long, honest Category 1 climb that starts almost at sea level and never really lets up. Over 16.7 km it lifts you from a start elevation of just 5 m to a summit of 1115 m, a net gain of 1110 m, with a total ascent of 1114 m once the minor undulations are counted. The average gradient of 6.64% sounds moderate on paper, but sustaining it for the better part of an hour — with a maximum pitch of 14.89% waiting somewhere along the way — is what earns this climb its Category 1 rating. There is nowhere to hide here: it is a test of steady, patient power rather than explosive efforts.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The headline figure is that 6.64% average, and over 16.7 km that means relentless, uninterrupted work. The gap between the 6.64% average and the 14.89% maximum tells you the story: the climb is not uniform. Expect long stretches that sit close to or slightly below the average, punctuated by steeper ramps that spike toward that near-15% wall. Because the total ascent (1114 m) is only 4 m more than the net gain (1110 m), you can trust that this is an almost purely upward road — there are no meaningful descents to break the rhythm or offer recovery. Every kilometre you climb is a kilometre closer to the 1115 m summit, banked and kept.

Pacing Notes

On a climb this long, discipline beats bravado. Aim to ride the shallower sections just below your threshold so you have headroom for the ramps toward 14.89%. Your FTP is the number that matters most here: settle into a percentage of it you can hold for the full duration rather than chasing the early gradient. If you are not sure what your threshold is, run the numbers through the FTP estimator before you commit to a target. A good rule for a 16.7 km effort is to leave a little in reserve for the first two-thirds, then spend it on the steeper pitches near the top where the 6.64% average bites hardest against tired legs.

Gearing

With 1114 m of total ascent packed into 16.7 km and ramps reaching 14.89%, gearing generously is the smart call. A compact 34-tooth inner chainring paired with a wide-range cassette will keep your cadence civilised. A 34×32 is the minimum most riders will want here, and it will get you up the steady 6.64% stretches comfortably — but on the 14.89% sections a 34×34 gives you a genuinely lower bailout gear and lets you spin rather than grind. If your setup allows the 34×34, use it: preserving cadence over 16.7 km protects your legs for the summit.

Summary

Passo Vaccaria rewards riders who respect its length and pace themselves honestly. It is a long, steady Category 1 ascent from near sea level to the 1115 m top, with just enough steep ramps to punish anyone who starts too hard. Gear low, pace to your threshold, and let the numbers do the talking.

Length: 16.7 km
Average gradient: 6.64%
Max gradient: 14.89%
Start: 5 m
Summit: 1115 m
Net gain: 1110 m
Total ascent: 1114 m
Category: 1