Linking the Sarntal valley above Bolzano to Vipiteno in the Wipptal, the Passo di Pennes (Penser Joch) is one of the most direct routes between South Tyrol and Austria, at the cost of a particularly demanding climb.
A sustained climb up to 2,211 m
From Vipiteno, it’s 15.5 km for 1,272 m of elevation gain, averaging 8.2%, with the steepest stretch around 10.2% and occasional ramps over 20%. The pass tops out at 2,211 m.
A historic route between Bolzano and Innsbruck
The Penser Joch forms the most direct link between Bolzano, via the Sarntal valley, and Innsbruck, via Vipiteno and the Brenner Pass, a role it has played for centuries in traffic between South Tyrol and the north side of the Alps.
Getting the ride right
The steady gradient above 8% leaves little room to recover over the whole climb: a measured pace from Vipiteno helps avoid blowing up in the final kilometres, which are the most exposed to wind.
When to go
May to October: the road closes in winter like most major South Tyrol passes, and its spring opening depends on residual snow at the summit.
Good to know
Vipiteno, the starting town in the Wipptal, has kept a distinctly Tyrolean historic centre and makes a handy base for exploring neighbouring passes such as the Jaufenpass.