
Ghiacciaio dei Forni Refuge
Italy, europe
N/A
2,178 m
hard
Year-round
# Rifugio Ghiacciaio dei Forni
Nestled in the Cedec valley of Lombardy's Alps, this mountain refuge sits at a breathtaking 2,178m (7,145ft) elevation. If you're looking for an authentic alpine experience, this is it.
The road up is narrow, steep, and fully asphalted—think winding mountain passes with serious elevation gain. It's definitely not a casual Sunday drive, so save this one for when conditions are perfect. Skip it entirely during bad weather, and be prepared for potential traffic jams on busy days. This is proper mountain driving territory, so if you're new to alpine roads, maybe work your way up to this one first.
The route takes you past iconic landmarks like Cappella Madonna del Cotolivier and through some seriously stunning terrain within the Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio. Those who make it up are rewarded with some incredible vistas and that special sense of achievement that only a mountain road can deliver.
Where is it?
Ghiacciaio dei Forni Refuge is located in Italy (europe). Coordinates: 42.4732, 13.2312
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 2,178 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 42.4732, 13.2312
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