
Where Is Palade Pass?
Italy, europe
N/A
1,518 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, buckle up, because we're headed to the Palade Pass in the gorgeous Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region of northern Italy! This road, also known as Strada Statale 238 (SS238), sits at a cool 1,518m (4,980ft) above sea level, offering some seriously stunning views of the valley below. History buffs will dig it because it was once a site of great military interest. You can still see the remnants of an extensive bunker system, complete with over 2,000 meters of corridors – pretty wild! The Palade Pass is a popular spot for motorcyclists and cyclists, but remember, the road to Monte Paularo is not for the faint of heart!
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 1,518 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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