Maloja Pass
A technical GPX track from Vicosoprano to Sils im Engadin, over the hairpins of the Maloja Pass.
We rode the Maloja Pass from Vicosoprano towards Maloja and on to Sils im Engadin. The climb through the series of hairpins is what stuck with me most. Along the way we got caught in a huge downpour, which made the steep bends and the limited visibility of oncoming traffic extra challenging. Luckily, thanks to our Sena communication, we could react in time when a truck was coming the other way. At the top we first took some time for a coffee, after which the landscape opened up and the road towards the Silsersee became a lot flatter.
Elevation profile
Stops & viewpoints
- 1Maloja Pass viewpointThrough the trees you catch glimpses of a few bends of the Maloja Pass here and there, but not a full overview. Still, a lovely view over the mountains.
- 2Hotel-restaurant at the pass summitAt the top of the Maloja Pass you find a hotel-restaurant with a terrace, a great spot for a break after the hairpins.
Based on the GPX track. Small deviations are normal.
Things to know about the Maloja Pass
22 bends against the mountainside
The best-known hairpins of the Maloja Pass are on the southern side, between the Bregaglia and Maloja. The historic mountain road with 22 bends was built starting in 1827. From the valley you climb a series of sharp bends up to the village of Maloja.
The crossover between two Alpine worlds
The Maloja Pass forms the transition between the southern Bregaglia and the high-altitude Engadin. Along the way you notice not just a change in landscape, but also in vegetation and atmosphere: from a narrower, greener mountain valley to the wide, open high valley.
An old trade route
For centuries the pass was used to transport goods between northern and southern Europe. According to historical sources, as many as 12,000 horses a month crossed the pass at the end of the 19th century.
The Silsersee is right nearby
Once you reach the Engadin, the Silsersee lies right next to Maloja. The lake sits at around 1,800 meters and is surrounded by impressive peaks. On a clear day, it is a beautiful spot to stop and take in the landscape.
Practical info on the road
Take the uphill hairpins easy
From Vicosoprano you climb a series of sharp hairpins towards Maloja. The bends follow each other quickly, and the elevation difference between sections sometimes limits your view of oncoming traffic. Pick a steady pace, look well ahead and stay in your own lane.
Watch out for oncoming traffic
A truck or camper van can need quite a bit of room in a sharp bend. During our ride, the rider at the front of our group warned us over Sena that a truck was coming. That let us wait before the bend until there was enough room to continue safely. Good communication within your group really pays off here.
Treat yourself to a break at the top
After the series of hairpins you reach Maloja, where the road gives way to the much flatter landscape of the Engadin. At the top we had a coffee at a hotel or restaurant to recover from the bad weather and the steep climb. A nice break to warm up, reassess the weather, and then continue on, relaxed, towards Sils im Engadin and the Silsersee.
Open year-round
Unlike most Alpine passes, the Maloja Pass doesn't normally close for winter. It stays open all year, though it can be temporarily closed for a few hours or a day after heavy snowfall. Check whether winter tires or snow chains are needed in winter conditions.
Cara's tip
Rain makes the climb a lot more challenging
We rode the Maloja Pass during a huge downpour. The steep hairpins, limited visibility and wet road surface made it a real near-Stelvio experience for me. Ride extra smoothly in the rain, keep enough distance and never force a bend. If it doesn't feel right, pull over somewhere safe to catch your breath.