Where is Monte Martello?

Where is Monte Martello?

Italy, europe

Length

1.3 km

Elevation

2,051 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the South Tyrol region of Italy, heading into Val Martello. Your destination? Monte Martello, a seriously stunning pass sitting at 2,051 meters (6,729 feet)!

The road winds alongside the gorgeous Zufrittsee-Lago Gioveretto for nearly 23 kilometers, starting from Coldrano and taking you up to the Zufallhütte (if you’re not in a private vehicle). The last bit? Gravel – so leave your car behind and hike it!

This climb? It’s no joke! It's been featured in the Giro d’Italia. Expect an average gradient of around 6.1%, but don’t get comfy. This road throws all sorts of steep and gentle sections at you. The final 1.3 kilometers are brutal, with gradients exceeding 10%, especially that last stretch with 1km to go! It's a long, irregular climb that feels like it goes on forever!

Trust me, the views are worth the effort. Just be prepared for some narrow spots and that final gravel section. It's a ride you won't soon forget!

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Road Details

Country
Italy
Continent
europe
Length
1.3 km
Max Elevation
2,051 m
Difficulty
moderate

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