GAVIA – Altimetr�as de Puertos de Monta�aGavia Pass Cyclists Breathe Easy: The Tridentina Bypass Is Here
Cyclists tackling the Gavia Pass from the Brescia side of Ponte di Legno are all too familiar with the daunting ascent, the thinning air, and, notably, the notorious Rocce Nere Tunnel. This 400-meter stretch, shrouded in darkness, steep gradients, and limited visibility, has long been a perilous passage, often shared with vehicular traffic. Over the years, it has been the site of numerous incidents and falls among cyclists.
Introducing the Tridentina Bypass
The good news is that this treacherous segment can now be safely circumvented. On July 4, 2026, the “Variante Tridentina” was officially inaugurated—a scenic cycle and pedestrian path that allows riders and walkers to bypass the tunnel entirely. This 400-meter external bypass was revitalized through a €250,000 investment by the Stelvio National Park, in collaboration with the Municipality of Ponte di Legno. The project included a complete resurfacing of the road, installation of new protective barriers, and essential rockfall netting to secure the rocky wall. Now, cyclists can enjoy the final push to the summit in tranquility, immersed in the alpine landscape, free from the dangers of the tunnel.
A Tribute to History
The Tridentina Bypass is not just a tourist and infrastructural enhancement; it carries profound historical significance. The name “Variante Tridentina” honors the 18 young soldiers of the Bolzano Battalion who tragically lost their lives on July 20, 1954, when their vehicle plunged into the ravine due to a road collapse in that very stretch.
A Milestone for Cyclists
The inauguration ceremony was attended by local authorities and figures from the cycling world, including Evgenij Berzin, the 1994 Giro d’Italia winner, who rode alongside the gathered cyclists. This event coincided perfectly with the upcoming Granfondo Gavia and Mortirolo, and organizers hope that this newfound safety will pave the way for the professional Giro d’Italia peloton to return to these iconic hairpins.
Enhancing Cyclist Safety
Beyond the ribbon-cutting, the opening of this bypass offers a moment of reflection. Creating safe infrastructures that protect vulnerable users is not merely a “gift” to a niche group of enthusiasts but a matter of road civility and strategic tourism. Safe environments for cyclists directly encourage more people to use bicycles, inviting them to explore and experience regions that demonstrate, through action, their hospitality. In a landscape where the protection of pedal users is often sidelined, the opening of this Gavia bypass is excellent news and a concrete demonstration of how a territory can be enhanced by making it truly accessible to all.
For a visual overview of the Tridentina Bypass, you can watch the following video: