Gampen Pass: Panorama, history & excursion tips
Between the Etschtal valley in South Tyrol and the Nonstal valley in Trentino, the road winds its way up to the Gampen Pass, which, at 1,518 metres above sea level, is one of the lower Alpine passes. Travellers here can enjoy a relaxing journey through history and nature to surprising destinations – ideal for explorers.
Interesting facts about the Gampen Pass
- Italian name: Passo (delle) Palade
- Altitude: 1,518 m above sea level
- Location: between Lana and Fondo (Trentino)
- Road: SS238 – connects the Nonstal valley, Deutschnonsberg and the Etschtal valley, well-developed and open all year round
- Suitable for: cars, motorcycles, bicycles (even gradient, few hairpin bends)
- Panorama: Nonsberg group, Mendelkamm and Laugen
- History: former boundary line, customs post (from 1562), part of the Italian Alpine Wall
Location, accessibility & special features
Just beyond the summit of the Gampen Pass is one of the largest bunker complexes in South Tyrol.
TV DeutschnonsbergThe Gampen Pass is nestled between the striking Laugenspitze peak and the Mendelkamm ridge, and it connects the South Tyrolean Etschtal valley with the Nonstal valley in Trentino. The road runs through forests, meadows and gentle hills, with few hairpin bends and plenty of peaceful scenery.
Starting from Lana, you reach the top of the pass after about 19 km, passing small hamlets, old farms, and views of the Nonsberg group. The route offers relaxed driving pleasure and is ideal for those who want to experience South Tyrol's diversity away from the major traffic routes.
Historically, the Gampen Pass was a border for centuries – politically, culturally and economically. Today, the Gampen bunker and an old boundary stone bear witness to this past, which can be explored with a short stopover.
Public transport
Even without your own car, the Gampen Pass is easy to reach: Bus line 246 connects Meran and Lana with the Gampen Pass and continues to Unsere liebe Frau im Walde, St. Felix and Fondo.
Activities & excursions
Cycling or mountainbiking in the Alps
ARochau / Fotolia.comThe Gampen Pass is ideal for anyone who wants to experience South Tyrol in an active and relaxed way. The gentle gradient (approx. 6-7% from Lana) makes it particularly popular with cyclists – either as a single tour or as part of a challenging circular tour via the Mendel Pass. Motorcyclists also appreciate the quiet route with its wide bends and alpine panorama.
Hiking tips starting at the Gampen Pass
Hiking enthusiasts will find numerous trails through meadows and forests around the Gampen Pass, including:
- Laugenalm: leisurely hike to a mountain hut | approx. 2-3 hours, 340 m elevation gain
- Laugenspitze: moderately difficult, rewarding summit tour | approx. 4 hours, 920 m elevation gain
- Tillwiesen & Schönegg: easy hike | approx. 3-4 hours, 310 m elevation gain
The Gampen Bunker is usually open to visitors from April/May to October.
TV Deutschnonsberg
South Tyrol's largest mineral collection awaits you in the long tunnels of the Gampen Bunker.
TV Deutschnonsberg
The exhibition at the entrance tunnel of the Gampen Bunker tells the story of the Gampen Pass in pictures.
TV DeutschnonsbergGampen Bunker
The Gampen Bunker, a relic from the time of the Italian Alpine Wall and one of the largest bunker complexes in South Tyrol, is located directly at the top of the pass. Today, it houses an interesting exhibition of minerals from all over Europe, supplemented by historical photos and information on the history of the pass.
The bunker is usually open from April to October (with varying opening hours). Guided tours are available. The combination of nature, history and geology makes it a fascinating visit for families too.
Unsere Liebe Frau im Walde is a popular pilgrimage site.
Internet Consulting - Patrick Kammerlander
This special church was built on a prehistoric settlement site on a hill in Tisens near Lana.
Patrick Schwienbacher - TV Lana und Umgebung
The castle is situated on a hill and is visible from very far.
Internet Consulting - Patrick Kammerlander
At the Rainguthof farm in Gfrill near Tisens, children can enjoy a small animal paradise with a petting zoo, outdoor enclosures and animal adventures.
Internet Consulting - Patrick K.Other attractions in the area
- Unsere liebe Frau im Walde: small village with pilgrimage church and hiking trails
- St. Hippolyt: mystical viewpoint near Naraun, with church and archaeological significance
- Katzenzungen Castle: historic residence in Prissian, largest and probably oldest vine in Europe
- Rainguthof farm: mountain farm with an animal paradise as a highlight for children in Gfrill
Frequently asked questions
Is the Gampen Pass open all year round?
Yes, the road is usually passable all year round. However, heavy snowfall may cause temporary closures.
Are there places to stop for refreshments directly at the pass?
Yes, there is a small inn directly at the top of the pass.
Is the Gampen Pass suitable for motorhomes?
The road is wide and well maintained. Nevertheless, careful driving is recommended, especially when coming from the south.
How long does the drive over the pass take?
The drive from Lana to Fondo takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Can you cycle over the Gampen Pass?
Yes, the steady gradient and relatively low traffic density make it particularly popular with cyclists.
Is there parking available at the Gampen Pass?
Yes, there are several parking spaces along the road directly at the top of the pass.
