The winner of the Giro d’Italia Women 2025 will inevitably have to conquer the punishing gradients and challenges of the Monte Nerone climb. Located in the Marche region, in the province of Pesaro and Urbino, Monte Nerone is one of the most striking massifs of the Umbrian-Marche Apennines. Towering at 1,525 meters, it dominates the landscape of the upper Metauro Valley, spanning the municipalities of Piobbico, Apecchio, and Cagli. Stage 7, from Fermignano to Monte Nerone, covers 150 km with nearly 4,000 meters of elevation gain, undeniably the Queen Stage of this year’s race
Long-Awaited Showdown on Monte Nerone
The main course is undoubtedly Monte Nerone, but the stage is far from a one-climb affair. Before the final ascent, riders will face a series of punishing climbs that will sap the legs and set the stage for decisive attacks. After the intermediate sprint in Acquapartita, the route features a relentless sequence of categorized climbs: Moria (cat. 2, 2.5 km at 8.2%), Passo La Croce (cat. 3, 8 km at 3.8%), Valico di Sitria (1.5 km at 7.2%), La Forchetta (cat. 2, 3.4 km at 7.4%), Fosto (3.6 km at 6.2%).
These ascents are scattered throughout the route, ensuring no respite ahead of the final showdown.
The Monte Nerone climb will be tackled from Pian di Molino, stretching 15 km at an average gradient of 6.5%. This will be the ultimate test. There’s no hiding here, and for many, it’s the last real chance to grab the Maglia Rosa or claw back time in the GC. The gradient is fairly consistent, ranging between 7% and 10%, easing slightly until Pian di Trebbio before ramping up in the final kilometres.
