Valentine's Meadow (from St. James)

Prato Valentino is a 16 km climb not very well known among bike lovers, even though it has a particular charm. you go up from San Giacomo at 357 m a.s.l. among the vineyards and terracing typical of this area, where the wine of Valtellina D.O.C.G. is produced. You are on the Raethian side of the mountain, the sunniest one and you follow a well-maintained road. After 4 km, the ascent becomes more demanding with gradients around 7-8% until Teglio, homeland of the famous pizzoccheri' and birthplace of the name Valtellina. Again a wide open section leads you to an alpine wood and, to Prato Valentino, appreciated ski resort, at 1645 m a.s.l. The hardest sections are between 12.5 and 13.5 km with a 10% gradient, as well as between 14.2 and 15.2 km. Demanding is also the last part with a 10% gradient, before enjoying the well-deserved rest at the alpine hut, open all year round.