Dead Ends & dolci

Dead Ends & Dolci turns route planning into part of the adventure. Set in the sun-soaked landscapes of Ticino, Switzerland, this self-supported bikepacking event challenges riders to reach five checkpoints, each located at the end of a different dead-end road. The twist? Participants are free to choose both the order of the checkpoints and the route between them, creating a unique adventure for every rider.

The route covers approximately 500 kilometres with around 9,000 metres of elevation gain, starting and finishing near Bellinzona, Switzerland. Riders explore a network of gravel roads, mountain tracks, and quiet alpine lanes through rugged valleys, historic villages, and remote landscapes. At each checkpoint, participants are rewarded with a homemade dolce—a local sweet treat that gives the event its distinctive character.

Dead Ends & Dolci follows a strict self-supported philosophy. Riders are responsible for their own navigation, food, accommodation, and mechanical repairs, with no outside assistance permitted. The free-route format rewards smart decision-making just as much as physical endurance, allowing riders to prioritise speed, scenery, or a mix of both.

Blending adventure, navigation, and local culture, Dead Ends & Dolci offers a refreshing take on ultra-distance bikepacking. It is an event where every dead end leads to a new discovery—and a well-earned slice of cake.