Where is Passo Duran?

Where is Passo Duran?

Italy, europe

Length

20.4 km

Elevation

1,601 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk about Passo Duran, a crazy-beautiful mountain pass hanging out in the Italian Dolomites! You'll find this gem in the Province of Belluno, Veneto region, snaking its way up to 1,601m (5,253ft).

Up top, you're greeted with mountain huts, a sweet little chapel, and views for days. It's also the perfect jumping-off point for some epic Dolomite hikes. The Giro d’Italia loves this climb, and you will too!

The road itself, SP347, is paved, but hold on tight – it's a wild ride! Think hairpin turns, super-narrow sections, and some seriously steep climbs, hitting up to 15% in places.

Stretching for about 20.4 km (12.67 miles), the pass connects Agordo in the Cordevole Valley with Dont in the Zoldo Valley. Get ready for some stunning scenery as you wind your way up!

From Agordo, you're looking at a 12.5 km climb, gaining 992 meters with an average gradient of 7.9%. If you're coming from Dont, it's a shorter but slightly steeper 8.16 km ascent, gaining 671 meters at an 8.2% average gradient. Either way, your car (and maybe your legs!) will get a workout!

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Road Details

Country
Italy
Continent
europe
Length
20.4 km
Max Elevation
1,601 m
Difficulty
moderate

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