Sella Pass
Trentino-Alto Adige
Sella Pass, situated at around 2,218 meters above sea level, is a prominent mountain pass in the Dolomites connecting the Val Gardena in South Tyrol with Canazei in the Fascia Valley of Trentino. It lies between the Sassolungo and Sella mountain groups, forming part of a scenic quadrangle with Pordoi, Gardena, and Campolongo passes. This pass is renowned for its spectacular natural beauty and is a popular destination year-round, offering skiing in winter as part of the famous Sellaronda ski circuit and hiking, trekking, and climbing opportunities in summer. The surrounding area includes the "CittĂ dei Sassi," a natural labyrinth of boulders and trees favored by free climbers. Sella Pass is also a legendary route for cyclists, having featured multiple times in the Giro d'Italia, including as the race's highest point (Cima Coppi) on several occasions. The pass is integral to the Sellaronda Bike Day, a celebrated cycling event that loops through the four passes of the Sella group. Its combination of alpine sports, stunning landscapes, and cultural significance makes it a must-visit attraction in the Dolomites.
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Tipp: The best times to visit Sella Pass are summer for hiking and cycling, and winter for skiing on the Sellaronda circuit. Visitors planning to bike the Sellaronda Bike Day should consider starting points like Arabba, Corvara, Selva di Val Gardena, or Canazei. While traffic restrictions were previously imposed during peak summer months, these have been lifted, but planning ahead for parking and accommodations is advisable. Advance ticket purchase is recommended for ski lifts during winter seasons. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and youth on ski passes and bike events.
Interessante Fakten
- •Sella Pass is one of four passes forming the Sellaronda ski circuit, a famous ski tour in the Dolomites.
- •It has been the highest point (Cima Coppi) of the Giro d'Italia cycling race multiple times, including in 1969, 1976, 1998, and 2024.
- •The "Città dei Sassi" near the pass is a renowned natural climbing area featuring a maze of boulders and trees.
- •The pass connects two distinct cultural regions: the Ladin-speaking Val Gardena and the Trentino Fascia Valley.
- •Sella Pass is a key route in the annual Maratona dles Dolomites, a celebrated single-day cycling race.
Geschichte
Sella Pass has long been a vital alpine crossing between the provinces of Trentino and South Tyrol.
It was first included in the Giro d'Italia cycling race in 1940 and has since become a legendary climb, serving as the highest point of the race (Cima Coppi) in years such as 1969, 1976, 1998, and 2024.
Over time, it has developed into a key hub for winter sports, being part of the Dolomiti Superski area and the Sellaronda ski circuit.
The pass's infrastructure has evolved to support both winter and summer tourism, including ski lifts and trail systems.
Traffic management measures have been introduced and later removed to balance tourist access and environmental preservation.
OrtsfĂĽhrer
Sellaronda Ski Circuit
A spectacular ski route circling the Sella group, linking Sella Pass with Pordoi, Gardena, and Campolongo passes. It offers ski trails prepared for both clockwise and counterclockwise skiing, attracting winter sports enthusiasts worldwide.
CittĂ dei Sassi Climbing Area
A natural labyrinth of large boulders and trees near Sella Pass, popular among free climbers. It offers unique climbing experiences amidst stunning alpine scenery.
Sellaronda Bike Day
An annual cycling event where riders ascend the four passes of the Sella group in succession: Campolongo, Gardena, Sella, and Pordoi. The event starts in Arabba but can also begin in Corvara, Selva di Val Gardena, or Canazei.
