Closed for the winter season. Reopening: late May 2026
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The Stelvio Pass, which connects Bormio to South Tyrol and Switzerland, is a dream for those who love motorcycling and winding mountain roads.
History of the Road
The Stelvio road has existed since the Middle Ages, but it was a risky mountain path. In the early 1800s, Emperor Francis I of Austria commissioned a new road to connect Val Venosta with Valtellina to reach Milan, then part of Austria. The project was entrusted to Carlo Donegani (1775-1845), an expert in high mountain engineering. Work began in 1822, utilizing over 2,500 men including workers, engineers, and geologists: after just three years, in 1825, the project was inaugurated in the presence of the emperor himself.
Until 1915, the Stelvio road was used year-round by stagecoaches, thanks to the efficient work of snowplow operators employed during the winter. During World War I it was the site of clashes between Italians and Austrians, and after the victory on November 4, both sides became Italian: the Pass lost its original significance as a connection between Vienna and Milan, and the winter closure was decided. Today, it is passable in the summer.
The Itinerary
The itinerary is spectacular: 41 switchbacks on the Lombard side, from Bormio, and 48 on the South Tyrolean side up to Prato allo Stelvio, in Val Venosta. Ascending from Bormio, one can reach the Santa Maria Pass or Umbrail Pass (2,503 m), which allows entry into Switzerland, directly into the Monastery Valley. At the top, the legendary Stelvio Pass (2,758 m), the highest motor pass in Italy and the second highest in all of Europe.
FAQ
When does the Stelvio Pass open?
The Stelvio Pass opens on May 23 at 1:00 PM
When does the Stelvio Pass close?
The Stelvio Pass will close in early November
Is the Stelvio road subject to a fee?
No, the Stelvio road is freely accessible.
Are there restrictions for certain categories of vehicles?
Yes, on the Bormio side, there is a transit ban for vehicles taller than 3.30 m, while on the South Tyrolean side, the ban is for vehicles longer than 10.50 m.
Do I need to mount winter tires or have snow chains on board?
No, but it is recommended to have snow chains due to the altitude of the Pass.
Can I reach the top of the Stelvio Pass by public transport?
Yes, during the summer months, Automobilistica Perego operates the line from Bormio to the Stelvio Pass. Alternatively, the Pass can also be reached via Swiss transport, also in the summer, autopostale (service is guaranteed with online reservation) or from the South Tyrolean side via local transport SAD (service available every day in the summer).
