Last Updated on: April 28, 2025

Stelvio Pass was next. First time for my companion. I had not been there in many years, but knew what to expect.

Stelvio pass: view on the Bormio side

We crossed over from Switzerland and into Italy on road SS38 in the Lombardy region. Then a descent towards Val Müstair. It’s a very pleasant ride, with few signs of what awaits you.

As a contrast, the road up to Stelvio pass is quite an experience, whether for a motorcycle rider or a driver of any vehicle. Lots of hairpins and sharp corners, excellent pavement. Arriving at the top you’re greeted with a “bazar experience. There are shops and cafes on both sides of the road.

Stelvio, a tourist magnet/trap

Stelvio is a tourist machine. And that sort of take the magic away I think. Unlike in the Dolomites there are no restrictions on motorcycles (from this year on), but on the Bormio side there are restrictions on vehicle sizes. If you come here in July expect a lot of traffic. Especially on the way up on the Bormio side.

Because of the touristy feeling that is thrown at you once you get up there, Stelvio isn’t my favourite. A feeling shared by Truls-Erik. But neither of us dislikes the road up.

If souvenirs you want there’s plenty to choose from

The view is of course spectacular. From a road perspective one of the better in the Alps. So is it worth a visit? I would say so. The road on either side is something every rider should experience. But once you’ve been here it might not be the destination you want to rush back to.

We rode a little bit down on the Bormio side for pics and clip filming, then turned around and went back to same way we came.

Another night in Switzerland

Afternoon had moved into evening and we still had not made any decision about where to stay. Turned out the only vacancy that didn’t cost a quadrillion was surprisingly in Switzerland. So we went down the same way we came up, which wasn’t a downer, and continued to Val Mustair.

Our hotel in Val Mustair I can absolutely recommend it!

Our hotel turned out to be excellent. Arriving we were greeting by our host and owner. Some of the hotels in the Alps have been owned and managed by the same family who built it, ages back. With its own restaurant which served us our daily Schnitzel, made to perfection. We had a very pleasant one night stay at Hotel Central in Valchava. If you’re looking for a nice place to stay in the region here’s one to consider!

The next morning Austria, Timmelsjoch, a little more of Italy and Jaufenpass awaited us. Back soon with more.

Back to: previous adventure blog post