Segusino, VEN 2022

There are mountains and then there is Monte Grappa and it has nothing to do with Grappa, which is a kind of brandy or schnapps made on the lees from wine production. For me, this mountain is something very special, partly because of the historical importance of the mountain during World War 1, but also because it is so versatile with its 11 HC climbs, 10 of which can be recommended on a racing bike. The routes to the top are very varied, but all have a common distance of approx. 900 meters up to Rifugio Bassano Cima Grappa, a wonderful restaurant located below the Sacrario del Monte Grappa, a mausoleum for those killed in the First World War. The routes vary in length from approx. 19 km to approx. 29 km. which naturally means that there is a big difference in the average percentage of increase.

I first rode the mountain for the Gran fondo Pinarello in 2011 where we went up one of the tougher very steep climbs which meant I had to get off the bike a couple of times.

This time I had planned to do all 10, but bad weather made me pack up quickly, so it was only one trip up to the top and although it is described as one of the easier routes to the top, it was with its 27 km and 1500 hm still a big challenge. Even great rock music and cold IPAs from the bar, that was right next to the camper site couldn't hold me back from leaving Monte Grappa,

My route:

Climb:

• Monte Grappa