
Where is Cima Mammarosa?
Italy, europe
17.9 km
1,658 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the Abruzzo region of Italy, right between Pescara and Chieti, smack-dab in the middle of the Parco Nazionale della Majella. You're headed for Cima Mammarosa, a mountain pass that tops out at 1,658 meters (5,439 feet).
At the summit, you'll find a scattering of buildings, a parking area, and the Albergo Mammarosa, a mountain hotel. It’s the perfect jumping-off point for even more adventures.
The road, known as Strada Provinciale 64 (SP64), stretches for about 17.9 km (11.12 miles) from San Giovanni to Passolanciano-Maielletta. Now, the pavement isn't exactly perfect; expect some broken asphalt. And hold on tight because this route is packed with steep climbs, narrow stretches, and a whole lotta twists and turns, including some seriously tight hairpin bends.
Keep in mind that Cima Mammarosa sits high up in the Apennine Mountains, on the northeast side of the Maiella massif. The road is generally open all year, but be prepared for possible closures during the winter due to snowfall. So, gear up for an amazing drive with views that'll knock your socks off!
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 17.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,658 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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