Where is Malga Palazzo?

Where is Malga Palazzo?

Italy, europe

Length

8 km

Elevation

1,571 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

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!

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Road Details

Country
Italy
Continent
europe
Length
8 km
Max Elevation
1,571 m
Difficulty
moderate

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