
Where is Malga Palazzo?
Italy, europe
8 km
1,571 m
moderate
Year-round
Alright, thrill-seekers, buckle up for Scanuppia-Malga Palazzo in Trentino, Italy! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a climb to 1,571 meters (that's 5,154 feet for my American friends) of pure, unadulterated adrenaline.
Nestled in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region, this hidden gem, also called Salita Scanuppia, kicks off near Besenello. The stats? A mere 8 kilometers (or roughly 5 miles), but don't let the distance fool you. You'll be wrestling your way up 1,317 meters with an average gradient of 18.1%.
Why is everyone talking about it? Because it's rumored to be the steepest paved climb in Europe (or even the world!). Seriously, there are sections that hit a mind-blowing 42.8%.
And the road itself? Well, it's paved...sort of. Think concrete with a seriously wavy surface – like giant ripples built in for extra grip, especially useful when snow and ice hit the Dolomite mountain range. So, get ready for a bumpy, breathtaking, and utterly unforgettable ride!
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 8 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,571 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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