
How to drive the scenic road from Sospirolo to Gosaldo in Belluno?
Italy, europe
25.2 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
# The Sospirolo to Gosaldo Drive: A Dolomite Gem
Tucked away in Belluno province in Veneto's northeastern corner sits one of Italy's most spectacular drives. The Strada Provinciale 2 della Valle del Mis winds through the Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park for 25.2 km (15.65 miles), connecting Sospirolo in the south to Gosaldo in the north, and honestly? It's absolutely worth the detour.
Built between 1921 and 1938 (with some refreshing in 1996), this fully paved road is a thrilling mix of hairpin turns and dramatic scenery. You'll navigate through hand-hewn tunnels carved straight out of the rock—unlit and moody, they add serious character to the journey. Fair warning though: a particularly tight, unlit tunnel near Titelle restricts traffic to vehicles under 2.5 meters tall, and it's one-way only, with traffic alternating directions.
The real magic? Cruising past the Lago del Mis, an artificial reservoir created by a 1962 dam, where the surrounding peaks reflect perfectly in the water. It's the kind of view that makes you pull over and just stare for a while.
That said, drive smart here. The area's prone to landslides, especially after heavy rain when the road sometimes closes entirely. Stick to the center, take it slow through those narrow sections, and stay sharp. But don't let that scare you off—this remote Mis Valley route is one of the most rewarding scenic drives the Dolomites have to offer.
Where is it?
How to drive the scenic road from Sospirolo to Gosaldo in Belluno? is located in Italy (europe). Coordinates: 41.2268, 12.9605
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 25.2 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 41.2268, 12.9605
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