Open
Open during the summer season.
Prohibition of transit for vehicles longer than 10.50 m.
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The Stelvio Road, which leads from Bormio to South Tyrol and into Switzerland, is the dream of those who love motorcycles and winding mountain roads.
History of the road
The Stelvio route existed since the Middle Ages but was a dangerous mountain path. In the early 1800s, Emperor Francis I of Austria wanted a new road that could connect the Venosta Valley with Valtellina to reach Milan, which at the time was Austrian territory. The project was entrusted to Carlo Donegani (1775-1845), an expert in high mountain engineering. Work began in 1822 with the employment of 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 carriages, thanks to the efficient work of the snowplow operators employed during the winter. During the First World War, 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 Vienna-Milan connection, and the winter closure was decided. To this day, it is passable in the summer period.
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 Venosta Valley. Ascending from Bormio, it is possible to reach the Santa Maria pass or Umbrail Pass (2,503 m.), which allows entry into Switzerland, directly into the Monastero Valley. At the top, the legendary Stelvio Pass (2,758 m.), the highest motor pass in Italy and the second in all of Europe.
FAQ
When does the Stelvio Road open?
Approximately opens in mid/late May (date to be determined)
When does the Stelvio Road close?
Approximately closes in late October/early November (date to be determined)
Is the Stelvio Road subject to a fee?
No, it is free access
Are there restrictions for certain categories of vehicles?
Yes, on the Bormio side there is a prohibition on transit for vehicles taller than 3.30 m, while on the South Tyrolean side, the prohibition 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 always carry snow chains due to the altitude of the Pass
Can I reach the top of the Stelvio Pass using public transport?
Yes, in the summer it is possible to reach the Pass from South Tyrol via local transport SAD. Alternatively, there is also a service from Switzerland with AutoPostale (the service is guaranteed with prior online reservation) and from Bormio with Automobilistica Perego that operates a line service from Bormio.
