Stelvio Pass
Italy, europe
24.3 km
2,757 m
difficult
June to September
The Stelvio Pass (Passo dello Stelvio) is the highest paved mountain pass in the Eastern Alps at 2,757 meters above sea level. Located in northern Italy near the Swiss border, it connects Bormio in the province of Sondrio with the Adige Valley and Merano. The road features a staggering 48 numbered hairpin bends on the northern side from Prad and 34 on the eastern side from Bormio, making it one of the most technically demanding drives in Europe.
Originally constructed between 1820 and 1825 by the Austrian Empire under engineer Carlo Donegani, the Stelvio Pass was built as a vital trade and military route connecting the Austrian province of Lombardy with the rest of the empire. The road climbs through alpine meadows, past glaciers, and along precipitous cliff edges. It has been a regular feature of the Giro d'Italia cycling race since 1953, where it is considered one of the most punishing climbs in professional cycling.
The pass is typically open from June to September, depending on snow conditions. The northern approach from Prad is considered the most spectacular, with its seemingly endless series of switchbacks visible from above like a concrete ribbon draped across the mountainside. At the summit, a small settlement offers restaurants, hotels, and the Stelvio Pass Museum, which documents the road's history and its role in World War I, when fierce fighting took place in these mountains.
Where is it?
Stelvio Pass is located in South Tyrol / Lombardy, Italy (europe). Coordinates: 46.5287, 10.4533
Driving Tips
Open June to September. The northern approach has the most hairpins. Watch for cyclists, especially during the Giro d'Italia. Fuel up before ascending as there are no stations on the climb.
Road Surface
Paved asphalt
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Region
- South Tyrol / Lombardy
- Length
- 24.3 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,757 m
- Difficulty
- difficult
- Surface
- Paved asphalt
- Best Season
- June to September
- Coordinates
- 46.5287, 10.4533
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