The Stelvio Pass road links Italy to the South Tyrol and Switzerland. The distance from Bormio to Prato allo Stelvio is about 29 miles (47 km). А mountain pass is located on an elevation of 9,045 feet (2,757 m) and is the highest paved pass in the Eastern Alps and the second highest in the Alps after Col de l'Iseran in France. The road SS38 features 48 hairpin turns, attracting many cyclists and motorcyclists with these picturesque curves. Stelvio Pass has become an iconic cycling destination due to Giro d'Italia (Tour of Italy).
Stelvio Pass facts
Stelvio Pass road was a popular route since the Middle Ages. The first road was built here in 1820–1825 during the times of the Austrian Empire to connect Lombardy with Austria, and that idea was backed by Emperor Francis I of Austria. Stelvio Pass lies only 656 feet (200 m) from the Swiss border. Umbrail Pass runs from its westbound ramp. The Dreisprachenspitze, also known as Three Languages Peak, towers above the pass and is considered to be the meeting point of German, Italian, and Romansh languages.
Attractions of Stelvio Pass include a cable car, leading to the ski resort of Livrio, where skiing is possible even in the summer. Visitors can admire nearby scenic peaks: Ortler, Thurwieserspitze, Trafoier Eiswand, Monte Scorluzzo, and Piz Umbrail.
When does the Stelvio Pass open
Stelvio Pass is usually open to traffic between June and October. The road closes around November 1 due to snow blocking the way and reopens around June 1. You can check the current status of the Stelvio Pass road and other mountain passes at bormio.eu.
Stelvio Bike Day (Scalata Cima Coppi)
Each year, Stelvio Pass gets closed for traffic on the last Saturday of August or the first Saturday of September. On that day, around 12,000 cyclists celebrate the Stelvio Bike Day, riding from Prad to the pass and descending over the Umbrail pass to Val Müstair. There are three routes to the Stelvio Pass for cyclists: the South Tyrolean route, the Lombardia route, and the Swiss route. Also, in mid-June, an annual Stelvio Marathon from Prad to Glurns takes place in the area.
Stelvio Pass map
If you are up to driving or cycling the scenic Passo dello Stelvio, you may want to rest your head somewhere close to the pass road. So take a look at the Stelvio Pass map, suggesting some of the best hotel options nearby. And make your bookings well ahead of time if possible.
Practical info
Which mountains can visitors view from Stelvio Pass?
The Stelvio Pass, located in the Alps, offers views of the nearby peaks. Visitors can admire the Ortler, Thurwieserspitze, Trafoier Eiswand, Monte Scorluzzo, and Piz Umbrail. All of these mountains are located in the Ortler Alps and provide great opportunities for taking photos. Show more
What is the duration of Stelvio Pass's road being open for traffic each year?
Stelvio Pass is open for traffic every year from June to October. Due to the heavy snowfall, the pass road closes on or around November 1, and reopens around June 1. To verify the current status of the pass road and other mountain passes, people can always check the official Bormio website in Italy. Show more
What is the annual Stelvio Marathon? When does it typically happen?
The Stelvio Marathon is an annual running event in the region. The marathon encompasses the path from Prad to Glurns, with a distance of a little over 42 km (26 miles). The race attracts many participants from diverse regions each year, typically taking place in mid-June. The marathon allows runners to enjoy the stunning weather and gorgeous scenery of the region. Show more
Which nearby hotels would you recommend close to Stelvio Pass?
A visit to Stelvio Pass's area entails choosing the best accommodation. There are several hotel options in the area, with Hotel Funivia, Alpenhotel St. Christina, Hotel Genziana, and Hotel Derby being some of the best choices. However, during peak seasons, prior booking is vital to secure the best room options and rates. Visitors can either book directly or via a travel agent. Show more
