Gemona - Sella S.Agnese - Forte M.Ercole - Monte Cumieli - Venzone - Bordano

Start from the center of Gemona, take Via dei Cappuccini (signposted for Monte Cuarnan), continue on Via Gleseute, and at the end of the village, turn right across the small ford and begin climbing up the dirt road to Sella S. Agnese (4 km). Turn right and keep to the left on the rough road for 300 meters; then take the trail that climbs to the left (5.2 km). At the first fork, go right, then at the next fork, go left, following steep, challenging ascents with difficult terrain, before descending into a clearing. Continue along the dirt and concrete road to Fort M. Ercole (7 km), which is worth a brief visit. Descend along the main road for 700 meters, and at the intersection, take the uphill path to the left. On a cobblestone path with a moderate incline, pass through a tunnel and a hairpin turn; at the 10-km mark, take a trail to the left through the chestnut trees. The real challenge of the route lies in the next kilometer of very steep ascent with loose, unstable terrain—a climb for experienced hikers.

At the summit of Cumieli, you can rest on a meadow with a beautiful view of the Tagliamento River. Descend the steep climb you just ascended and continue left toward Sella S. Agnese (13 km). Continue to the left as on the way there, but keep to the right to descend toward Rivoli Bianchi along a treacherous descent of gravel and large, slippery cobblestones. Cross the enormous stretch of gravel (we preferred to descend all the way to the state highway for an apple break at the fruit stand at the foot of Case Rivoli Bianchi) and reach Venzone via Strada Marsuris, then turn right onto Strada dei Celti. In Venzone, cross the state highway toward Pioverno, cross the bridge over the Tagliamento River, and continue left toward Bordano, riding along the AlpeAdria Cycle Path, which is shared by cyclists and motorists.

Pass through Bordano and cross the Tagliamento again on the Braulins Bridge—the one near the little villa. Turn left toward Gemona via Via Cavazzo. To climb back up to the town center, take the most direct route: go straight at the traffic light onto Via Tagliamento, which features a couple of climbs steeper than 15% to keep you on your toes.

60% paved, 40% dirt—a very challenging stretch with an uneven surface.