Passo Giau - Cycling Inspiration & Education

I guess it was only a matter of time before we’d awaken to a tearful sky, up until this point we’d definitely had lady luck on our side. Conditions can change in a heartbeat so I was hoping that the clouds would roll on by just as quickly as they’d descended on the Passo Giau. The Dolomites on a blue sky day are one of my favourite places to chase an endless horizon and escape the day, and are a place like no other on the planet. Sinuous roads, jagged peaks and steep gradients leave you breathless for all the right reasons but, hey, the show must go on right? It’s not over until we're singing at the summit…..at least that’s what the voice in my head keeps telling me.

The Giau may not be the longest climb at 10km but it should never be taken lightly, with a gradient that rarely drops below double figures all the way up to 2,236 metres it’s a serious test.

I was absolutely gutted not to be able to unlock all of the secrets of the climb on this day, however, despite the somewhat sombre conditions the Giau gifted us one of the most humbling experiences I’ve ever had in the mountains, and my life for that matter. We’d seen many shepherds, albeit from afar, during our filming which subsequently led to frequent late night discussions and head scratching en route to the next climb trying to work out how their life actually works. To spend just a few moments in the presence of a shepherd and to witness how they are the true master of the mountain and their flock absolutely blew my mind. Living on the road, continually walking their sheep all year around from the Dolomites in the summer to the flatlands of Slovenia in the winter put everything in perspective and made me realise in that same heartbeat that makes the weather change not to overlook the real beauty of our surrounds. Take your time, seize the day and don’t let the moment pass you by.

Thank you to the Giau and that special shepherd for taking us out of the bubble and back towards life once more. Peace.

Start: Selva di Cadore
Length: 10.1km
Summit: 2,236m
Elevation gain: 922m
Average gradient: 9.1%
Max gradient: 10.4%

If you like what you see and are able to help spread our message by sharing with your friends and fellow riders then that would be truly appreciated. Our goal is to try and help inspire and educate as many cyclists as we can and we hope you can become part of our mountain journey!

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Thank you for watching. Ride safe.

Mike Cotty
The Col Collective

[DjordjeNovkovic]

Thank you so much for all these cycling moments and beautifull sights!

[spencerlong]

You've done it again Mike, inspired, brought a sense of wonder and peaceful relaxation at the same time.. what a beautiful climb..thank you

[rahulkota]

Wonderful gesture there with the person with sheep and the Col Collective special was really special :)... Its enlightening to meet people... You took the rain and made this wonderful video..Beautiful music again...its fun playing videos back to back...wonderful rides and classic music...Job well done The Col Collective 

[ancientfifer]

Beautifully done clip. I’m riding the Giau this Summer. Can’t wait!

[brentmccord]

I just recently listened to you on Rich Rolls podcast.  Thoroughly enjoyed it!  Afterwards I was really interested in seeing your exchange with the Shepard you talked about, and it's true, his eyes totally lit up and you can just see that he loves what he does.  I really loved that part.  Another spectacular motivational video Mike and crew!  Cheers

[greghart]

Brilliant lad! I always enjoy these videos immensely, great vibe and inspiration to sling a leg over the steed and head out on an explore

[Paruspice]

Great work and Fantastic video! BRAVO
,

[WowRixter]

Going to be there riding at the end of July. Thanks for wetting my appetite Mike

[cpf]

Love all your videos Mike! Thanks to you and your crew!

[matthewholberton]

Brilliant video.  I was lucky enough to climb this epic beast in perfect weather in July.  I thought it flattened out at the top, never trust what you overhear!  

[seadbiberovic]

This is really pure
pleasure for watching
Amazing
Awesome
Atractive
BRAVO BRAVO BRAVO

[ploglet]

One of my favorites as it is a bit out of the way and not as well known. Amazing route and thanks for the great videos.

[panosclimber]

Excellent video, excellent music.congrats

[robertjohnston]

Nice one Michael. The Giau and I have met several always interesting, very disappoints :)

[giulianogilbrezza]

I think you looks like the sheperd a little, isn't it? Very funny! You are great! Dolomites are amazing and lovely indeed... I love! This climb with sunshine is like a dream! Hi from Adriatic coast Italy and many thanks for the video.

[richtinsley]

awsome work again Mike!  And the film crew too!

[superluvver]

Excellent work mike! I was thinking of you when i did it from alleghe. It was 5.30 in evening, the view was sublime at 730-830.the locals i spoke to do it as training ride ! I love how you show aspects of the mountain with the journey being more important than the destination . You gotta feel and breath thd mountains .

[staffane]

Great video and riding as always! Just back from a 3.5h training ride in cold and windy conditions so it was nice to see a new video while on the couch :) 

[yosoypatrick]

Great video, can't wait to see how i do on this one.

[rahulkota]

I am siting here and writing policy papers listening to the col collective playlist...damn making it difficult for myself :P .... Well noticed one thing Mike Cotty almost speak nonchalantly on the climbs as if he is sitting for a tea with you !!!!