Cycling Dolomiti Friulane: Stavoli Sopracengla

Monte Prat is a fun area to explore not too far east of here above the Tagliamento River. I rode from home to Forgaria and then began the climb. Not a killer but still challenging. A bunch of University of Udine geology students were hammering on rock cliffs along the road. Around 750 meters my rear tire went flat and I changed it quickly to avoid getting cold.

Soon I reached the altopiano and pedaled easily, resting from the climb. At the old hotel turn right through the forest. Before long you reach an intersection with Via Agar, which heads northwest to Cjanet and Peonis. To the north is the road for Monte Pedroc (900 meters). But the road I was looking for was Via Ledrania, to the south. Almost immediately it began plunging down the escarpment toward Lago Cornino. After a few small groups of restored stone houses I reached end of pavement at 530 meters, below Stavoli Sopracengla. From here a hiking trail descends to Lago Cornino. I'll hike it someday.

I turned and headed back up the escarpment at a snail's pace: it's 2 km averaging 13% with ramps over 18%. I made it but I was toast. The decent was fun but the long ride home was tough. After a month or so of rain it's time to start rebuilding my fitness.