Nestled within the dramatic contours of the Ortler Alps, the Stelvio Pass weaves its way between the village of Stilfs (Stelvio) in South Tyrol and Bormio in the province of Sondrio. Positioned near the Swiss border, it serves as a vital link to Sta. Maria Val Müstair via the Umbrail Pass, which climbs Stelvio’s western ramp. This iconic stretch of tarmac not only connects the Valtellina region with the Vinschgau Valley and the spa town of Meran, but also traces cultural and linguistic borders, most notably at the Dreisprachenspitze (Three Languages Peak), where Italian, German, and Romansh traditions converge. Framed by towering alpine giants such as Thurwieserspitze, Piz Umbrail, and the majestic Ortler, the pass is more than just a road; it's a place where geography, language, and engineering meet in spectacular harmony. In summer, it even hosts one of Europe’s highest skiing areas, adding to its year-round appeal for adventurers and aesthetes alike.
The Stelvio Pass was carved into the Alpine rock between 1820 and 1825 by the Austrian Empire, designed by engineer Carlo Donegani to link Austria with the then-Habsburg-ruled Lombardy. Rising over 1,800 meters, the route remains largely unchanged, a testament to its original vision and engineering. Once a critical military border between empires, Stelvio witnessed fierce combat during World War I, where snow, ice, and artillery fire shaped its legacy as much as the road itself. Over time, its strategic importance faded, but its legend only grew. Today, it lives on in the world of motorsport, cycling, and driving passion, crowned as the Cima Coppi in the Giro d’Italia and celebrated by Top Gear as one of the greatest driving roads on Earth.
To discover more of its history and access exclusive historical images make sure to visit the Historical Museum Carlo Donegani.
Traversing the Eastern Alps at an elevation of 2,757 meters (9,045 ft), the Stelvio Pass road, officially known as Strada Statale 38, is one of Europe’s most dramatic feats of mountain engineering. The pass winds its way through a landscape of raw alpine grandeur. Its most legendary feature is the eastern ramp: a staircase of 48 tight, stone-numbered hairpin turns, many of which are clustered near the summit. The coordinates - 46°31′43″N, 10°27′10″E - place it precisely where the driving world holds its breath.
Your Roadtrip
From Italy, the most popular approach begins in the Lombardy region, ascending from Bormio via the southern ramp. This route is known for its sweeping curves, dramatic tunnels, and broad alpine vistas, offering a slightly more forgiving ascent, ideal for warming up both machine and driver. From the north, those coming from Switzerland can enter via Sta. Maria Val Müstair, crossing the Umbrail Pass, which merges with Stelvio’s western ramp. This approach is quieter, more remote, and equally breathtaking. Whichever side you choose, ensure your vehicle is in top condition, check weather forecasts closely (especially outside summer months), and allow time - not just for the drive, but for the reverence the Stelvio demands.
Also good to know: the Stelvio road is free of charge.
Seasonal Access
Due to its high altitude, the Stelvio Pass is a seasonal route, typically open only from June to October. The road is closed from around November to mid or late May, as heavy snow and ice render the pass impassable during the winter months. Planning your journey within this open season is essential, as the conditions not only affect access but also define the full sensory experience of driving through one of the most spectacular alpine routes in the world. Accurate information about its access can always be found here: