Valico di Sant'Antonio

Overview

The Valico di Sant'Antonio is a short, unrelenting Category 2 climb that packs a genuine punch into just 5.2 km. From a start elevation of 221 m it rears up to a summit of 646 m, and that 425 m of net gain over such a compact distance is what makes the numbers bite. The headline figure is an average gradient of 8.21% — not a rolling road that occasionally kicks, but a slope that leans on you from the moment the incline begins. With a max gradient of 13.5%, there is no long false-flat to hide behind. This is a climb you measure in effort held, not scenery ticked off.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The shape here is defined by consistency rather than dramatic swings. An 8.21% average across 5.2 km means the road rarely dips into recovery territory; where many climbs give you a breather, this one keeps the pressure steady. The gap between the 8.21% average and the 13.5% maximum tells you the steepest ramps sit roughly 5.29 percentage points above the norm — sharp enough to force a gear change, but not so far off the baseline that the climb ever feels erratic. Expect the hardest pitches to arrive as short reinforcements of an already demanding slope rather than isolated spikes. The total ascent of 404 m, sitting just under the 425 m net gain, confirms an almost purely uphill profile with negligible give-back.

Pacing Notes

Because the gradient holds so steadily, this is a climb where discipline beats bravado. Riding above your sustainable ceiling in the first kilometre will cost you dearly across the remaining distance. Anchor your effort to your FTP and aim to sit just under threshold on the steady 8.21% sections, saving a little headroom to absorb the 13.5% ramps without redlining. If you are unsure of your number, run the FTP estimator before you attempt it and set a target power band. On a climb this short and steep, a smooth, slightly conservative opening pace almost always yields a faster time than an aggressive one.

Gearing

Given the sustained 8.21% average and 13.5% pitches, gear generously — spinning saves your legs far more here than grinding. A compact 34-tooth chainring paired with a 34×32 setup is a sensible baseline for strong climbers who want to keep cadence up on the steady slope. If you are carrying fatigue, riding at altitude, or simply prefer to protect your knees on the steepest ramps, drop to a 34×34 for that extra margin. On a wall like this, the lower gear is rarely wasted.

Summary

The Valico di Sant'Antonio rewards riders who respect its numbers: pace to your threshold, gear low, and let the consistent 8.21% do its work without panic. Short, steep, and honest, it earns its Category 2 rating.

Length: 5.2 km
Average gradient: 8.21%
Max gradient: 13.5%
Start: 221 m
Summit: 646 m
Net gain: 425 m
Total ascent: 404 m
Category: 2