Passo del Maniva | 1664 METER | Bagolino Collio

The Passo del Maniva is one of those alpine passes that very few touring cyclists include in their itinerary. The same goes for the whole area above Lake Idro and around the picturesque little mountain town of Bagolino. The Passo del Maniva is one of the most beautiful Alpine passes in Italy; it may well be the most beautiful Alpine pass in Lombardy – though that, of course, depends entirely on one’s personal criteria. The road is narrow, poorly tarmacked and winding, as is typical throughout the region. The views of the Lombardian mountain region are impressive, but the highlight is the 40 or so hairpin bends – depending on how you count them – leading from Bagolino in the east to Collio in the west.

Tip: Stay overnight in the village of Bagolino – the small hotels are full of charm, and the food is excellent. Bagolino lies on a mountainside, high above the Val Cafforo, and offers truly breathtaking views.

A tour via the Passo di Croce Domini, situated slightly further north, is also highly recommended. Both alpine passes are also directly linked by the gravel road Strada Tre Valli. If you prefer tarmac, the best way to link the Passo di Croce Domini and the Passo de Maniva is via Bagolino.