Passo Giau (2,236 m) links Cortina d'Ampezzo with the Val Fiorentina, and many people rate it one of the most scenic, photogenic passes in the Alps. Cyclists and photographers love it.
Its 29 hairpin bends and the ring of peaks around it (from the Ra Gusela to the Nuvolau) make it worth the trip, whether you drive up or use the summit as a base for hikes.
It's become an icon of road racing, and the queen stages of the Giro d'Italia come back to it again and again thanks to its long, even gradient. At sunset the light hits the surrounding peaks just right, and it's one of the most photographed scenes in the Dolomites. That alone is why a lot of visitors plan their climb for the evening.
Frequently asked questions
Is Passo Giau suitable for drivers who are sensitive to mountain roads?
The road is well kept but very twisty, with nearly 30 hairpin bends. If you get carsick, take it slow and use the scenic pull-offs along the way.