Marta’s Diary: Maratona Dles Dolomites

Girona and cycling go hand in hand. In every circle of friends, there is at least one cycling enthusiast. At Castelli this is certainly the case, as we are all passionate about pedal-powered adventures, spending our days dreaming of new trips, challenges, and joyful moments on the bike. This is how we began envisioning an exciting new adventure, seemingly beyond reach.

We – Oscar, Javi, Marta, and Sergi – a group of friends who have shared numerous cycling adventures over the years, decided that we wanted to escape Girona’s intense summer heat. The solution was clear: head to the mountains. Oscar initiated this journey. His infectious smile, optimism, and outlook on life captivated us when he proposed, “Hey, why don’t we go to the Dolomites?”

La Maratona Dles Dolomites, one of the most magical destinations I’ve ever experienced, awaited us. Although it was six months away, the day arrived quickly. Uncertain of how ready we were, our passion and enthusiasm pushed aside any lingering doubts, as Castelli supported us from the start, guiding us towards Italy.

Friday, fifth of July

Following a 3am alarm call and an eighthour journey, we reached Fonzaso, home of the Castelli factory. Soren, Castelli’s head of marketing, warmly welcomed us to the factory. Exploring every nook of the headquarters, we were pleasantly surprised to find a place that retained a familial and artisanal essence, despite using cutting-edge technology in garment manufacturing.

Saturday, sixth of July

We joined a social ride organized by the Castelli family. This was a decision we were grateful for, as delaying riding in a cycling paradise would have been torture. The sun was shining, the alpine road from Campolongo Pass to Pordoi was spectacular, and we kept meeting fantastic people along the way. What exactly is it about the people of this valley that makes them so cheerful and hospitable? Is it that they live in peace and harmony? Is it the power of the mountains? They welcome visitors as if they were family, and it is to be appreciated; they make you feel at home.

Sunday, seventh of July

Today is the day of the Maratona. We woke up at 4am, had breakfast, and left the hotel at 6:30am with the weather looking decidedly bleak and overcast. Suddenly, the reality of summer in the high mountains hit us: the road was wet, it started to rain again, and it was 9 degrees at the start. Dressed in Gabbas, Tempestas, shoe covers, and gloves, we were not missing a single item of clothing. At the start, you could see a fantastic gathering of people who are used to riding their bikes whatever the circumstances. The classics were back, and we were happy to see again the essence of the purest cycling.

Race on! We started climbing Passo Campolongo, and then the Passo Pordoi. We subsequently summited the Passo Sella, followed by the Gardena, and finally back to Corvara to continue with the longest climbs, the Passo Giau and Falzarego. Javi and Sergi spent the whole race encouraging the riders who were having the hardest time. Oscar, overwhelmed by the immensity of the landscape, simply gazed wide-eyed at the scenery that looked just like a movie backdrop. Eight hours later we were all together again at the hotel. We were exhausted!

Monday, the eight of July

Myrtha and Emilio, the owners of Azienda Agricola Foradoori, welcomed us and proudly showed us around their family winery. We arrived in Italy with the purpose of completing a challenge as big as the Maratona Dles Dolomites: 138km with 4230m of climbing. In reality, what seemed to be the main objective of the trip soon became secondary. The impact that this trip had on us has nothing to do with distance, watts or elevation; but with the hospitality and affection of all the people who welcomed us to one of the most spectacular places on Earth.

We return to the hot Girona summer refreshed and with happy hearts, full of new experiences that we are so thankful for and want to share with those around us.

This story is part of Nafent Magazine volume 11. Read the full story in our digital or paper magazine. Go to our webshop to get yours.