Resia Pass is one of the lowest crossings of the Alps
Italy, europe
22.4 km
1,522 m
moderate
Year-round
# Reschenpass-Passo di Resia: A Hidden Alpine Gem
Looking for a way to cross the Alps without tackling the notorious Brenner Pass? Let me introduce you to Reschenpass-Passo di Resia, a stellar alternative sitting pretty at 1,522 meters (4,993 feet) in Italy's Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region, right near the Austrian border.
This mountain pass has serious history. Built between 1850 and 1854, it's actually one of the lowest Alpine crossings around—which is exactly why smart travelers choose it over the busier Brenner to the east (the Splügenpass hangs out to the west, too). Fun fact: during WWII, Mussolini fortified this strategic spot with defensive barrages like the Passo di Resia and Plamort installations to guard against a potential Nazi invasion.
The drive itself? Completely paved along the Strada Statale 40, running 22.4 kilometers (13.91 miles) from south to north between Malles Venosta and the Austrian border. Fair warning though—those steep sections crank up to an 8% gradient in places, so it's not a casual Sunday cruise. But with those Alpine vistas and the thrill of conquering a historic pass, it's absolutely worth the twists and turns.
Where is it?
Resia Pass is one of the lowest crossings of the Alps is located in Italy (europe). Coordinates: 42.6528, 13.2798
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 22.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,522 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 42.6528, 13.2798
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