Open
Open only during the summer season.
The Stelvio road, which from Prato allo Stelvio in South Tyrol leads to Bormio in Lombardy and into Switzerland, is the dream of those who love winding mountain roads.
History of the road
The Stelvio pass existed since the Middle Ages, but it was a risky mountain path. In the early 1800s, Emperor Francis I of Austria wanted a new road that could connect the Venosta Valley with the Valtellina to reach Milan, then part of Austrian territory. The project was entrusted to Carlo Donegani (1775-1845), an expert in high mountain engineering. Construction began in 1822, employing over 2,500 men including workers, engineers, and geologists: after just three years, in 1825, the work 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 the snowplowers employed during the winter.
During the First World War, it became a battleground 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 winter closure was decided. Even today, it is passable during the summer period.
Itinerary
The itinerary is spectacular: 48 hairpin turns on the South Tyrolean side from Prato allo Stelvio, in the Venosta Valley, and 41 hairpin turns on the Lombard side, from Bormio. At the top, the legendary Stelvio Pass (2,758 m.) is the highest motor pass in Italy and the second highest in all of Europe. Right after the pass, descending towards Bormio, it is possible to reach the Umbrail Pass (2,503 m.), or Santa Maria pass, which allows entry into Switzerland, directly into the Monastery Valley.
FAQ
- When does the Stelvio Pass open and close?
The Stelvio Pass is generally open from late May to early November (dates may vary based on snow and weather conditions) - When is it mandatory to have winter tires and/or snow chains on board?
In the Province of Sondrio, from October 15 to April 30, there is an obligation to have snow chains on board and/or winter tires (it is recommended to have both) - Are there restrictions for certain categories of vehicles?
Yes, there is a transit ban for vehicles longer than 10.50 m, while on the Lombard side, for vehicles taller than 3.30 m and longer than 10 m - Can I reach the top of the Stelvio Pass by public transport?
Yes, during the summer months, SAD operates the service on the South Tyrolean side from Prato allo Stelvio (BZ) while Automobilistica Perego operates the line up to Bormio (SO)
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