Gardena Pass
Passo Gardena is located at an altitude of 2121 meters above sea level, it is a spectacular Alpine pass that connects Val Gardena with Val Badia in the Dolomites.
This wonderful destination offers stunning landscapes, a wide range of outdoor activities and an enchanting atmosphere. Whether you are a hiking enthusiast, a cyclist or a climbing lover, Passo Gardena will amaze you with its natural beauty and multiple scenic hikes.
How to Get There:
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Passo Gardena is accessible from many directions. Those coming from Val Gardena can climb from Selva di Val Gardena. On the contrary, those coming from Val Badia can go up from Colfosco.
Passo Gardena can be reached by car via the SS243, but during the high season, when traffic and lack of parking can become problematic, it is advisable to use the lifts. These provide not only a way to save time and stress, but also the opportunity to enjoy a panoramic view of the magnificent mountains of the Dolomites.
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From Colfosco you can take the Col Pradat ski lift up to the upper station. From there, it is possible to follow the paths that lead to Passo Gardena.
For those who are trained and perhaps have an ebike, they can reach the pass by bicycle via the provincial road (SS243).
However, it is important to remember that, if you are traveling by bicycle, it is not possible to take it on public transport that surrounds the Dolomite passes. Therefore, informing yourself in advance and planning accordingly is essential.
Breathtaking landscape of the Dolomites
The mountain landscape around Passo Gardena is simply extraordinary and is part of the 4 Dolomite Passes of the Sella Group. To the south extends the massif of the Sella Group, with its majestic peaks that offer a spectacular view. To the north, on the other hand, is the Cir Group, within the Puez-Odle Nature Park, which offers enchanting panoramas. To the west rises the imposing Sassolungo Group, while to the east you can admire the peaks of Val Badia.
The streams and waterfalls that cross the region, such as the Rio Frea which flows into the Rio Gardena, contribute to the natural beauty of this alpine area.
What to do
Bicycle
Passo Gardena is an ideal destination for cycling enthusiasts. Whether you have a racing bike, a mountain bike or an e-bike, you can easily reach the pass by pedaling along the provincial road (SS243).
Being a high altitude pass (2100 meters), before leaving, it is advisable to check the weather conditions and make sure you have the right equipment to ride safely.
Passo Gardena is also part of the famous Sellaronda mountain bike tour, a panoramic tour around the Sella Group that offers breathtaking landscapes and an exciting challenge for cyclists.
Hiking
In the summer months, Passo Gardena becomes the starting point for numerous excursions on foot and by mountain bike. Trekking lovers will be spoiled for choice among a variety of paths that lead to suggestive places. One of the recommended excursions is the one that leads to the Pisciadù refuge, located in a panoramic position in the Val Mezdì. Along the way, visitors will be able to admire the majestic rock faces of the Dolomites and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding valley.
Shelters
Among the excursions to do in Passo Gardena there are also those towards the Panoramic Huts. These refuges offer a welcoming and authentic atmosphere, where you can taste traditional mountain cuisine and relax while admiring breathtaking views. Rifugio Jimmy can be reached with an easy path that starts from Passo Gardena, it is one of the recommended options. Here you can delight yourself with local dishes and enjoy a regenerating break surrounded by the beauty of the Dolomites. Another wonderful retreat is the Dantercepies Mountain Lounge.
Via ferrata
For climbing and climbing enthusiasts, Passo Gardena also offers exciting via ferratas. One of the most famous is the Ferrata Tridentina, which has its starting point just below the pass. This via ferrata is known for its beauty and challenge, and offers the opportunity to climb scenic rock faces. The Passo Gardena area is full of via ferratas and climbing routes, furthermore both the mountaineering schools of Val Gardena and Alta Badia organize courses and safe guided excursions.
Places to stay to visit Passo Gardena
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