
Driving to Forcella Luson in the Dolomites
Italy, europe
8.2 km
2,383 m
hard
Year-round
# Forcella Luson: A Dolomite Adventure
Perched at a breathtaking 2,383 meters (7,818 feet) in Italy's Trentino-South Tyrol region, Forcella Luson—also called Lüsner Scharte—is the real deal for mountain enthusiasts. This gem sits right in the heart of the Dolomites and serves up some seriously stunning alpine scenery.
The route, known locally as Via Panoramica Dolomiti or Dolomiten Panoramaweg, starts from Strada Provinciale 29 and stretches 8.2 km (5.09 miles) to the summit. Fair warning: most of it's unpaved, and it gets properly steep as you climb. The final push toward the top features tight switchbacks and narrow passages that'll keep you focused—this isn't a lazy Sunday drive.
Winter? Forget about it. The road typically closes when snow rolls in, so plan your visit for warmer months.
Once you're up there, you'll find the charming Plosehütte (Rifugio Plose) mountain hut near the summit, perfect for a well-deserved break. Head north from the pass and you'll spot a gravel chairlift trail leading up to Monte Telegrafo (Plose).
The payoff for all this effort? Panoramic views that'll make your jaw drop. The drive delivers pure Dolomite magic from start to finish.
Where is it?
Driving to Forcella Luson in the Dolomites is located in Italy (europe). Coordinates: 42.2238, 12.8865
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 8.2 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,383 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 42.2238, 12.8865
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