From Lake Garda over the Dolomite passes to the Sella Pass

Route details

A 216 km route that leads from northern Lake Garda near Arco through the Fassa Valley up to the famous Sella Pass and into Val Gardena. The route combines a Mediterranean climate with high alpine Dolomite scenery.

This route begins in Arco, the well-known climatic health resort about 5 km north of Lake Garda. The starting point is at an altitude of around 90 meters in a region that even allows tropical plants to thrive thanks to its mild microclimate. From here, the route leads northwards through the Sarca and Adige valleys.

The first few kilometers are on well-maintained valley roads with moderate curve radii and few technical demands. Traffic can be heavy around Lake Garda, especially in the high season, which is why an early start is recommended.

After crossing the Fiemme Valley, the route climbs continuously. The Fassa Valley with towns such as Moena, Vigo di Fassa and Canazei forms the heart of the Tour. The roads become more winding here and the alpine character increasingly dominates the landscape. The SS48 through the Fassa Valley is well paved and wide enough for two vehicles, but has ruts and patches in some places.

The highlight of the Tour is the Sella Pass at 2,240 meters. The pass connects Val di Fassa with Val Gardena and is one of the most famous Dolomite passes. The Pass road was built in 1872 and has a total of 32 Hairpins. The Sella Pass is not extremely demanding in terms of driving, but spontaneously changing road widths require attention. Passing between the Sella massif and the Sassolungo group, the route offers constant views of the striking Dolomite peaks.

The Sassolungo, at 3,181 meters, towers as a landmark over Val Gardena. The Sassolungo group is part of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site. Several mountain huts invite you to take a break at the Pass summit.

The route continues to Ortisei in Val Gardena, the main town with around 4,600 inhabitants. The village is known for its woodcarving tradition, which has been cultivated since the 17th century. The approximately 30-kilometre-long Val Gardena extends from the Isarco Valley eastwards into the Dolomites - narrow and wooded at the beginning, it opens up at the back with green meadows and the characteristic Dolomite peaks.

The Tour ends at San Giovanni di Fassa. The total difference in altitude is a good 2,100 meters. The best time to travel is between June and October; in the summer months of July and August, you can expect increased traffic from coaches and motorhomes. Early summer and fall offer ideal conditions.