Top 18 Mountain Passes around Gandino
Best mountain passes around Gandino are situated in the Seriana Valley, at the foot of the Orobic Prealps. This region serves as a gateway to various mountain areas, offering a network of passes and scenic routes. The landscape is characterized by its natural beauty, historical significance, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Gandino itself is a starting point for exploring the surrounding mountainous terrain.
Best mountain passes around Gandino
- The most popular mountain passes is Passo della Forca (1848 m),…
Last updated: June 26, 2026
Third Millennium Bell at Forcella Larga
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Madonna of the Cyclists at Colle Gallo
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Ascent to the Sanctuary Madonna dei Ciclisti (Colle Gallo)
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Zambla Pass
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Ranzanico Pass
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Pay attention to the parking signage for possible paid parking with a scratch card.
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Tips from the Community
The climb to Passo del Colle Gallo (763 m above sea level) and its Sanctuary of the Madonna dei Ciclisti (officially Madonna della Neve) is one of the historic and most beloved ascents in Bergamo cycling. Located in the province of Bergamo, this pass connects the Val Seriana (from Albino/Gramelduro) with the Val Cavallina (from Casazza).
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Convenient starting point for reaching various places including Monte Sparavera. The parking lot can accommodate about thirty cars, and along the road about 7/8 more. Remember to get the scratch-off parking permit, available for purchase in the municipalities of Peia or Ranzanico (it is not the same one needed for M.Farno).
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Road always beautiful and not very busy!
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Originally, the current Sanctuary dedicated to the "Madonna dei ciclisti" (Our Lady of Cyclists) was called "Madonna della Neve" (Our Lady of the Snow). Being a classic uphill route, also for some stages of the Giro d'Italia and Giro di Lombardia (in addition to many other minor races), it was later named so towards the end of the last century, considering that a small cycling museum was also created next to the church. To which, well-known cycling professionals donated their memorabilia.
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I know of nothing comparable from my home country of Germany, but in the country that has the internationally recognized sporting competition of the Giro d'Italia, there must surely also be the very special patronage of a "Madonna dei Ciclisti".
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PLEASE NOTE!!! Starting June 2025, parking at Forcella is subject to a fee. A small fee of €3 will be charged for parking. The goal is to use the proceeds to maintain Via Cadorna (this is what the municipality has declared. Whether this is fair or not, I'll leave it to others to decide), the main thoroughfare leading to Forcella.
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Forcella Larga is a pass located along the hiking trail that connects Pizzo Formico (1636 m) to Montagnina, in Val Gandino, province of Bergamo. It is a panoramic point much appreciated by hikers for its view of the Orobie Bergamasche and Val Seriana. Characteristics of Forcella Larga: Altitude: About 1470 meters. Access: Reachable via the CAI 549 path, which connects Monte Farno to the Rifugio Parafulmine. Panorama: View of Val Seriana, Val Gandino and the surrounding mountains. Support points: Capanna Ilaria, located near the fork. Recommended route: The most common path starts from Conca del Farno, crosses Montagnina and reaches Forcella Larga before continuing towards the summit of Pizzo Formico. It is an excursion suitable for those who have experience in the mountains and want to enjoy a breathtaking view.
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Capanna Ilaria is located at 1470 meters above sea level, in the Forcella Larga area, along the hiking trail that leads to Pizzo Formico (1636 m). It is a reference point for hikers who cross the Montagnina and head towards Rifugio Parafulmine. Characteristics of Capanna Ilaria: Altitude: 1470 m. Location: Forcella Larga, along the CAI 549 trail. History: The hut is a historic ruin, often used as a rest point. Route: Connections with Pizzo Formico, Monte Farno and Rifugio Parafulmine. Panorama: View of Val Seriana, Val Gandino and the Orobie. From Pizzo Formico, Capanna Ilaria can be reached in about 30 minutes, following the trail that crosses the Montagnina. It is a perfect place for a break before continuing towards the refuge or the summit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular mountain passes around Gandino for scenic views?
For breathtaking panoramic views, consider Forcella Larga, which offers expansive vistas of Val Seriana, Val Gandino, and the Orobie Bergamasche mountains. Passo della Forca (1848 m) is another excellent vantage point overlooking the Arera complex. Additionally, Madonna of the Cyclists at Colle Gallo provides incredible panoramas from its summit.
Are there any historical or cultural sites to visit near the mountain passes?
Yes, several passes offer historical and cultural interest. At Forcella Larga, you can find the Third Millennium Bell and the ruins of Capanna Ilaria, a historic hut destroyed in WWII. Madonna of the Cyclists at Colle Gallo features a splendid church, a cycling museum, and a winged statue, making it an iconic cultural landmark.
What outdoor activities can I do near these mountain passes?
The region around Gandino is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including those leading to Pizzo Formico and Rifugio Parafulmine. Cycling is also very popular, especially around Zambla Pass and Colle Gallo. For more detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Gandino guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Gandino guide.
Are there family-friendly mountain passes or trails suitable for children?
Yes, some areas are more suitable for families. Monte Farno, a significant starting point for trails, offers gentle paths. Madonna of the Cyclists at Colle Gallo is categorized as family-friendly, and Ranzanico Pass also offers family-friendly options for excursions.
Where can I find parking near the mountain passes around Gandino?
Parking is available at several key locations. Ranzanico Pass has a parking area with a scratch-and-stop system for about 30 spaces, serving as a useful starting point for various excursions. Zambla Pass also offers parking facilities, making it convenient for visitors.
What is the best time to visit the mountain passes around Gandino?
The best time to visit is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is mild and trails are clear of snow, making hiking and cycling most enjoyable. Some areas like Montagnina also offer cross-country skiing in winter, but specific passes might require snowshoes or specialized equipment during colder months.
Can I find food and drink options near the mountain passes?
Yes, some passes offer amenities. Zambla Pass, for instance, has a public fountain and a restaurant/bar at the top, making it a convenient stop for refreshments. Forcella Larga has Capanna Ilaria nearby, which serves as a resting point for hikers.
What makes Pizzo Formico a popular destination near Gandino?
Pizzo Formico, standing at 1636 meters, is highly popular for its spectacular views of the Bergamo Prealps, Val Seriana, Val Gandino, and distant landmarks like Lake Iseo and the Po Valley on clear days. The summit is marked by a 12-meter-high cross, and various loop trails, such as the Pizzo Formico and Rifugio Parafulmine Loop, allow for diverse exploration.
Are there any challenging routes for experienced hikers or cyclists?
Absolutely. The climb to Ranzanico Pass from Ranzanico is known for its narrow, steep sections and challenging asphalt, with constant double-digit slopes. For hikers, the Pizzo Formico Summit Trail (via Route 549) is rated as difficult. Cyclists can also find challenging routes like the Val Seriana and Val Brembana via Passo Zambla Loop, which is rated as difficult in the Road Cycling Routes around Gandino guide.
What is the 'Il percorso delle malghe' and where can I find it?
'Il percorso delle malghe' (The Alpine Huts Route) is an ancient pastoral route through Val Gandino. While not a single pass, it's a network of historical routes connecting alpine farms, offering insights into the region's mountain heritage and a unique way to explore the mountainous landscape. You can find sections of this route, for example, on the Monte Farno to Rifugio Parafulmine (Il percorso delle malghe) trail.
What do visitors enjoy most about the mountain passes around Gandino?
Visitors highly appreciate the diverse landscape, from the natural beauty and panoramic views to the historical significance of sites like the Third Millennium Bell. The variety of outdoor activities, especially hiking and cycling, is a major draw. The community has contributed over 190 upvotes and 70 photos, highlighting the region's appeal for exploration and scenic enjoyment.
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