Arriving in Chiavenna, the cyclist's eye is immediately drawn to the vineyard terraces overlooking the city. Up above, a collection of old housing seemingly glued together makes up the village of Pianazzola, sun- kissed the year round with magnificent panorama. The itinerary heads off from the centre of Chiavenna, incorporating nine sweeping bends and almost 5 km to the village at 635 m above sea level. Take in the breathtaking views from a natural balcony above both Valchiavenna and val Bregaglia. It's a climb for any time of year, asphalted all the way and exposed to the sun until dusk. There's a gentle introduction for cyclists along the first kilometre after which it begins to slowly climb, before touching a maximum gradient of 7%.