
Where is Theodulpass?
Italy, europe
10.5 km
3,336 m
hard
Year-round
Theodulpass, perched on the border of Switzerland and Italy, is a true high-altitude stunner at 3,336m (10,944ft)! Also known as Colle del Teodulo, Col de Saint-Théodule, and Theoduljoch, this incredible spot connects Valais in southern Switzerland with Italy's Valle d'Aosta. You'll even find the Rifugio del Teodulo, a mountain hut built way back in 1920, watching over the pass.
Sadly, you can no longer drive to the very top, as the old unpaved road—once the highest drivable point in the Alps—is now closed to motorized vehicles. But cyclists, listen up! In perfect midsummer conditions, you can still conquer this beast!
Starting from Breuil-Cervinia in the Aosta Valley, the climb stretches for 10.5 km (6.52 miles), with a whopping 1,308 meters of elevation gain. Prepare for an average gradient of 12.45%, but don't get too comfy – some sections are brutally steep, maxing out at a crazy 30%! The surface is loose and rocky, getting even gnarlier as you climb higher.
This eastern Pennine Alps adventure is only possible for a tiny window in late summer (think late August). But if you catch it right, the views are worth every grueling pedal stroke!
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 10.5 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,336 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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