Il passo col gruppo del Sella
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Gardena Pass

4.9
·1k reviews·, Italy

Iconic Dolomite pass with breathtaking views, thrilling drives, and incredible hiking trails. A must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, best light

CrowdLow
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Il passo col gruppo del Sella

Gardena Pass

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, best light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic Dolomite pass with breathtaking views, thrilling drives, and incredible hiking trails. A must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers.

4.9
(1k reviews)

"The views are INSANE! One of those places where you cannot believe your eyes."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Park Smart

Parking is available for around €2/hour, capped at €8/day. Arrive by 11 AM to find decent spots.

🧥 Pack Layers

Mountain weather is unpredictable. Bring a jacket, even in summer, as it can get chilly.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Drive

Panoramic Drive

Gardena Pass Road (SS242)

Experience iconic hairpin bends and sweeping vistas of the Dolomites. A must-do for drivers and motorcyclists.

Breathtaking Mountain Views

Breathtaking Mountain Views

Various viewpoints along the pass

Unbelievable scenery unfolds at every turn. Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer beauty of the Italian Alps.

Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails

Surrounding peaks and valleys

Challenging yet rewarding hikes, some with via ferrata elements. Trekking poles are recommended for stability.

Sunset Spectacle

Sunset Spectacle

Gardena Pass viewpoints

Witness the mountains bathed in golden light. A magical end to a day exploring the Dolomites.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by arriving early, especially during peak season. Many visitors suggest early mornings or late afternoons for the best light and fewer people. Consider visiting outside of July and August for a more relaxed experience.

Gear Up for Adventure

Whether you're driving, hiking, or biking, comfortable footwear is essential. The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so pack layers, including a jacket, even in summer. Don't forget your camera for those breathtaking Dolomite views!

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, best light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer (July-August)
Why
Full access, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🇮🇹Welcome to one of the most breathtaking locations on the Planet 🎥 @zenwander . . . #valgardena #italiandolomites #valgardenadolomites #dolomiti #italian_places #southtyrol #geisleralm #dolomites #dolomitiunesco #visititaly #southtyrol #altoadige #dolomitesitaly #dolomitiunesco #thedolomites #sorapis #seiseralm #cinquetorri #seceda #lagodimisurina #travelitaly
@zenwander
33.5K likes • 504.9K views

🚗 Park Smart

Parking is available for around €2/hour, capped at €8/day. Arrive by 11 AM to find decent spots. Reddit

🧥 Pack Layers

Mountain weather is unpredictable. Bring a jacket, even in summer, as it can get chilly. Reddit

📍El MEJOR viaje por DOLOMITAS⛰️ 📝Si quieres unirte a alguno de mis viajes, escapadas o rutas, escribirme por privado❤️ 🚐Adquirí la furgo con la compañía @roadsurfer 🥾Calzado de montaña de @paredes_es 👉Si queréis el itinerario, os lo paso por privado📩 🔐Guarda esta maravilla 🙋🏻‍♂️ Síguenos para más escapadas y rutas @viajeandoo ✨ Cuida este sitio por favor, déjalo todo como estaba, simplemente d...
@viajeando
29.2K likes • 682.6K views
🏍️ Gardena Pass: 2,136m of pure motorcycle heaven! 🇮🇹 Epic hairpin bends, smooth tarmac, and panoramic views of the Dolomites await you. 👉 Tip: Early mornings offer empty roads and unforgettable sunrise rides. Watch out for tight curves—gear down and lean in! Who’s ready to twist the throttle? ⛰️💨
moto_slaps
5.2K likes • 310.8K views

🥾 Hiking Essentials

Trekking poles are helpful for stability on loose rock sections during hikes. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The scenery is incredible! Bring your camera or phone for stunning photos. TikTokInstagram

Gardena Pass, a 2.136 m de altitude, no coração das Dolomitas. Um dos passos alpinos mais belos de Itália e um dos nossos favoritos. Estradas incríveis, vistas panorâmicas e um paraíso para motociclistas e amantes da natureza.
kms_ao_vento
152 likes • 2.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Park Smart

Parking is available for around €2/hour, capped at €8/day. Arrive by 11 AM to find decent spots. Reddit

🧥 Pack Layers

Mountain weather is unpredictable. Bring a jacket, even in summer, as it can get chilly. Reddit

🥾 Hiking Essentials

Trekking poles are helpful for stability on loose rock sections during hikes. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The scenery is incredible! Bring your camera or phone for stunning photos. TikTokInstagram

🏍️ Motorcyclist's Dream

The winding roads and views make it a paradise for motorcyclists. Early mornings offer empty roads. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.9
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the 'INSANE' and 'unbelievable' views at Gardena Pass, calling it one of the most beautiful places in the Dolomites. The scenic drive, hiking opportunities, and sunset vistas are major highlights. Some note that it can get busy, especially during peak hours, and recommend arriving early.

"The views are INSANE! One of those places where you cannot believe your eyes. No matter where you turn you can see mountains. There are many cables around to get to the top of the mountains or to the walking hikes near the peaks. Parking on top is 2€/h max 8€/ day. We came around 11 AM and it was half full. It is quite chilly so bring a jacket"

Amita Jakulevičiūtė

"Gorgeous fun drive but sadly very popular so it can get busy but when you dive it or bike it, you will see why!"

Finca Bock Stacey

"A fairly interesting, but challenging hike. The ascent includes some light via ferrata elements, but no special equipment is needed. There’s a safety cable along the trail to help. For better stability on sections with loose rocks, I’d recommend bringing trekking poles"

Tetiana B

What People Like

Breathtaking mountain views
Scenic driving roads
Hiking opportunities

What People Dislike

Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Gardena Pass (Passo Gardena) is accessible by car via the SS242 road, connecting Val Gardena with Alta Badia. It's a scenic drive, popular with motorcyclists and drivers alike. TikTokInstagram Many visitors find it easy to reach by car and suggest it as a great place to end the day. Reddit

Absolutely! Gardena Pass is a highlight for many Dolomites road trips, offering stunning hairpin bends and panoramic views. It's often included in multi-day itineraries for the region. TikTokInstagram

While direct public transport to the very top of the pass might be limited, the surrounding Val Gardena area is well-served by buses. You can likely take a bus to a nearby town like Selva di Val Gardena or Ortisei and then arrange local transport or a scenic walk. TikTok

For the best experience, consider an early morning drive to avoid crowds and enjoy the sunrise. Be prepared for tight curves and enjoy the exhilarating ride. Instagram

Yes, there are hotels and accommodations available in the vicinity of Gardena Pass, offering convenient access to the pass and surrounding attractions. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to access Gardena Pass itself. It's a public road. However, parking fees apply if you stop your vehicle. Reddit

Parking at Gardena Pass typically costs around €2 per hour, with a daily maximum of approximately €8. Reddit

Gardena Pass itself is a road, not a ski resort. However, if you plan to ski in the Val Gardena area during winter, you will need a ski pass for the resorts like Val Gardena or the Sella Ronda circuit. TikTok

Yes, the Val Gardena Guest Pass often provides free or discounted access to public buses and some cable cars in the Val Gardena region, which can be useful for exploring the area around Gardena Pass. TikTok

Yes, there are cable car and gondola options available near Gardena Pass that can take you to higher hiking areas or viewpoints. You can purchase tickets for these directly at the stations. TikTokReddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Many visitors rave about the hiking opportunities. Trails range from moderate walks to more challenging routes, some with via ferrata elements. Trekking poles are recommended for stability on loose terrain. TikTokReddit+1

Besides the scenic drive, you can enjoy hiking, photography, and simply soaking in the incredible mountain vistas. There are also hotels and restaurants for a break. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! The dramatic peaks, winding roads, and changing light make it a photographer's paradise. Sunset is particularly spectacular. TikTokInstagram

Gardena Pass (Passo Gardena) is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,121 meters (6,959 feet) above sea level. Instagram+1

Expect unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding Dolomite peaks, lush valleys, and dramatic mountain landscapes. It's a place where you can't believe your eyes. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings and late afternoons, especially during sunset, offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. The 'golden hour' truly enhances the beauty of the Dolomites. Instagram+2

You can capture stunning shots of the serpentine roads, towering peaks, and expansive valleys. Drone photography is also popular here for unique aerial perspectives. Instagram

Many viewpoints along the pass offer incredible photo opportunities. Pulling over at designated spots or viewpoints like 'Passo Gardena, Mountain Viewpoint' allows for safe and spectacular shots. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes, while a telephoto lens can help isolate specific peaks. A tripod is useful for low-light conditions, especially during sunrise or sunset. Instagram

Yes, taking a cable car up offers a different perspective for photography, with sweeping views of the pass and surrounding mountains from above. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Gardena Pass offers a visually stunning experience for families, even if not all members are avid hikers. The scenic drive itself is an adventure, with plenty of opportunities to stop and marvel at the views. TikTok Consider taking a cable car ride for a different perspective and to access easier walking paths at higher altitudes. TikTok Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities can be spread out. The parking fees are reasonable, making it accessible for a day trip. Reddit

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

For those on a road trip through the Dolomites, Gardena Pass is an absolute must-drive. Its iconic hairpin bends and panoramic vistas are legendary. Instagram+1 Plan to drive it in the early morning to experience it with fewer vehicles and capture stunning sunrise photos. Instagram+1 It's a perfect segment to include in a larger Dolomites itinerary, connecting Val Gardena with Alta Badia. TikTok+1

🏍️ Motorcyclists

Gardena Pass is a dream destination for motorcyclists, often referred to as 'motorcycle heaven.' Instagram The smooth tarmac, challenging curves, and unparalleled mountain scenery create an unforgettable riding experience. Instagram Early mornings are highly recommended for empty roads and the best riding conditions. Instagram Remember to ride cautiously and enjoy the thrill of navigating these iconic alpine roads. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Driving the Gardena Pass

The Gardena Pass (Passo Gardena) is a legendary alpine road, renowned for its exhilarating hairpin bends and breathtaking scenery. The SS242 route winds its way through the heart of the Dolomites, offering a thrilling experience for drivers and motorcyclists alike. Instagram+1 Many travelers describe it as a 'motorcycle heaven' and a 'gorgeous fun drive.' Instagram It's advisable to drive cautiously, especially on the tight curves, and to consider an early morning drive to enjoy emptier roads and spectacular sunrise views. Instagram The pass connects the Val Gardena with Alta Badia, making it a crucial part of many scenic road trip itineraries in the region. TikTok+1

Parking is available at the summit, typically costing around €2 per hour with a daily maximum of €8. Reddit While the drive itself is the main attraction for many, the pass also serves as a gateway to numerous hiking trails and offers access to cable cars that ascend to higher viewpoints. Reddit The sheer beauty of the surrounding peaks, like the Sassolungo group, is a constant companion throughout the journey, making it an unforgettable experience. Instagram

Hiking and Via Ferrata Adventures

For outdoor enthusiasts, Gardena Pass is a prime starting point for incredible hiking adventures in the Dolomites. The area boasts a network of trails catering to various fitness levels, from gentle strolls to more demanding treks. TikTok+1 Some routes incorporate elements of via ferrata, which are protected climbing paths with steel cables, ladders, and bridges. Reddit While these routes can be challenging, they often don't require specialized equipment, as safety cables are provided along the trail. Reddit However, for better stability on sections with loose rocks, bringing trekking poles is highly recommended. Reddit

Popular hiking destinations accessible from Gardena Pass include areas within the Puez-Odle Nature Park. TikTok The stunning vistas of jagged peaks, alpine meadows, and dramatic rock formations make every step worthwhile. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner looking for a scenic walk, the trails around Gardena Pass offer a profound connection with the majestic Dolomite landscape. TikTokReddit

Photography Hotspots

Gardena Pass is a dream destination for photographers, offering endless opportunities to capture the dramatic beauty of the Dolomites. The iconic serpentine roads, with their perfect curves, are a popular subject, especially when framed by the towering, rugged peaks. Instagram The interplay of light and shadow on the mountains throughout the day creates dynamic and captivating scenes. Instagram

For the best photographic results, aim for the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset. During these times, the mountains are bathed in a warm, soft light that accentuates their textures and colors. Instagram+1 Sunset, in particular, is a magical spectacle, painting the sky and peaks in hues of orange, pink, and purple. Instagram+1 Many visitors recommend stopping at designated viewpoints or the 'Passo Gardena, Mountain Viewpoint' to safely capture these breathtaking moments. Instagram Drone photography also offers unique aerial perspectives of the pass and its surroundings, showcasing the scale and grandeur of the landscape. Instagram

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