
Where is Lavena Pass?
Italy, europe
17.4 km
1,992 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, buckle up for the Passo di Lavena in Italy's Brescia province! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about a mountain pass soaring to 1,992 meters (6,535 feet) above sea level.
You'll find this gem snaking through the Lombardy region in northern Italy. The road, known as Strada Provinciale 345B (or Delle Tre Valli), stretches for 17.4 km (10.81 miles) between the SP 669 junction and... well, just trust me, you'll know when you're there!
Here's the kicker: while the start and end are paved, the middle section is a gravel adventure! Don't let that scare you, it's doable, but watch out for rocks and those worn-out curves. Seriously, keep it slow - 20 km/h is the limit, and no impromptu stops allowed. This road hugs the mountain tops, staying mostly above 2,000 meters. Expect some seriously amazing views!
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 17.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,992 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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