A natural border between Switzerland and Italy since antiquity, the Splügen Pass tops out at 2,115 m in the Lepontine Alps. Its Swiss side, shorter than the Italian one, offers an accessible and spectacular climb in the heart of Graubünden.
A compact pass with a rich past
From the village of Splügen, the road climbs 8.8 km for 650 m of elevation gain, averaging 7.4%, with occasional stretches over 13%. The route, more regular and shorter than the Italian side, rises quickly through a stark high-Alpine landscape, with a series of tight hairpins in the upper section offering clear views over the Rheinwald valley.
A trade route turned cycling playground
Used since Roman times as a crossing between the north and south of the Alps, the Splügen Pass long rivalled the nearby Gotthard as a major trade route. The current road, built in the early 19th century, kept its original winding layout. The Italian side, from Chiavenna, extends the climb to nearly 30 km for around 1,800 m of elevation gain, a considerably tougher variant favoured by cyclists looking for a challenge comparable to the nearby Stelvio.
Getting the ride right
The shorter Swiss side lends itself well to a day ride from Chur or the Rheinwald valley, while the Italian side demands more sustained preparation given its length. A compact or triple crankset is recommended on both sides to handle the steepest sections.
When to go
June to September, as the road is generally closed outside that window due to snow at this altitude. July and August offer the best conditions, with longer days for combining both sides.
Good to know
Splügen, a small mountain village with well-preserved architectural heritage, offers convenient access to other iconic Graubünden passes such as the San Bernardino, less than an hour’s drive away, for extending a col-hunting trip in the region.
