Ascent to the highest cycling pass in the Alps
Passo del Madriccio (3123 m) is said to be the highest pass in the Alps that can be cycled. The reality is, of course, that you can overcome on a bike if you carry it on your back for the last hundreds of meters. In any case, one way or another, it is a very simple three-thousander that even a small child can climb without any danger – if he (or his parents) has the physical strength to climb 514 meters high from the cable car and 3.3 km long.
Starting point of the hike to Passo del Madriccio
The starting point for the hike to the Madriccio pass is the upper station of the Funivia di Solda cable car. Of course, you can start directly in Solden, but then count on 1,200 meters of elevation gain. There is a large restaurant right in the area of the cable car, so you can have refreshments here before or after the hike.
View of the valley
Right at the end of the hike, a distant view of the valley opens up to you. You won't see them there on this hike.
View back to the Königspitze
The ascent route is very comfortable at this altitude – a wide footpath. Cyclists use the second route leading directly under the poles of the ski lift (does not work in summer). Basically, the entire ascent is about a single interesting view back to the main ridge of the Ortles
Looking up
The surrounding landscape itself is not that interesting, let alone beautiful. It climbs through barren terrain where there used to be a glacier. So, first the strips will be covered with grass, then only debris around the road. Along the path there are many benches and play elements for children, many of whom walk here.
Above the Madritschhütte
About halfway there is the Madritschhütte, which is the second place on this hike where you can get refreshments. The cottage is located by the lake, so you can try some photo creations here. Now the second half of the ascent to the pass awaits you.
The Madriccio Pass in sight
Finally, you reach places where you can already see the shallow saddle, but in alpine conditions at a decent altitude
The lake below the pass
Probably the biggest attraction on this hike is the small lake directly below the pass.
In the passo del Madriccio (3123 m)
After an hour and a half of leisurely climbing with breaks, you are at the Madriccio pass
View of the Martelltal valley
From the saddle, you will have a wide view of the Martelltal valley on the other side
View of Hintere Schöntaufspitze (3325 m)
If you still have a bit of energy, as you certainly do, climb the Hintere Schöntaufspitze (3325 m), directly above the pass. The ascent is not difficult at all and you will also have views to the north.
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