A mountain bike itinerary that blends nature, history and high‑altitude scenery: the tour from Padola to the alpine huts of Comelico is a fascinating route, rich in First World War remains and immersed in one of the most evocative border landscapes of the Dolomites.
Route
The tour starts at the tennis courts in Padola, following the main road towards the Carabinieri station. Here you turn left and reach a junction with signs for Belluno, Santo Stefano and Sappada. The climb continues towards Casamazzagno, where—just before the church—you take a steep lane, first paved with stone and then asphalted.
The view opens immediately onto some of the most iconic peaks of the Comelico area: Croda Rossa di Sesto, Cima Undici and Monte Popera. Continuing uphill, you reach a junction at 1600 m.
From here, turn right following the CAI markers 147/148/149, until another junction where you keep left towards Colrotondo (markers 149/148). The route develops along a historic mule track, with a series of ups and downs that accompany the rider all the way to Passo Monte Croce.
After about 16 km, you reach Malga Rinfreddo, a panoramic spot ideal for a break. The climb then resumes towards Malga Colrotondo, an area rich in First World War remains: trenches, tunnels and defensive structures still visible on the nearby Col Quaternà.
From Malga Colrotondo, the long and enjoyable descent begins, leading to Passo Monte Croce. Here you turn left and return comfortably to Padola.
