Stelvio Pass, Mountain pass in Trentino-South Tyrol, Italy
The Stelvio Pass is a mountain crossing in the Ortler Alps that connects the provinces of South Tyrol and Sondrio via a high-altitude road. The route winds through seventy-five numbered hairpin bends up to an elevation of 2,758 meters and ranks among the highest paved Alpine crossings.
Construction of the road began in 1820 under the supervision of engineer Carlo Donegani when the region belonged to the Austrian Empire. Completion took five years and aimed to create a direct connection between Lombardy and Austrian territories.
Since 1953, this mountain crossing has been one of the key stages of the Giro d'Italia, where professional cyclists from around the world tackle the switchbacks. The climb is considered one of the toughest tests in professional cycling and draws thousands of spectators to the roadside every year.
The road remains closed between November and May due to winter conditions, while the summer months are best suited for motorcyclists and cyclists. On sunny days, the drive can take several hours as many visitors move slowly through the tight hairpin turns.
The three different approach routes from Bormio, Trafoi, and Santa Maria each offer a different driving experience with varying steep sections and curve radii. The view from the highest point extends on clear days to Monte Cevedale and across the entire Ortler massif.
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