Passo delle Erbe and Furcia Pass: the quiet loop from Brixen

The loop at a glance

This route links three valleys: the Eisack Valley, Val Badia and the Puster Valley. It starts in Brixen, climbs Passo delle Erbe (Würzjoch), drops into Val Badia, continues to San Vigilio di Marebbe and crosses the Furcia Pass to Valdaora (Olang). You return through the Puster Valley. At around 130 kilometres there is room left in the day package for detours.

The road to Passo delle Erbe is narrow in places and has no centre line. That is exactly what makes it special – but it calls for attention to oncoming traffic, cyclists and grazing cows.

The route

1. Brixen – St. Andrä – Afers: Up from Brixen past the Plose into the Afers valley.
2. Passo delle Erbe (approx. 2,000 m): At the top the Sass de Putia stands right in front of you. The car park at the pass is worth a photo stop.
3. Descent into Val Badia: Via Antermoia down to San Martino in Badia.
4. San Vigilio di Marebbe: Through Val Badia to Longega and up into Marebbe – a good place for a break.
5. Furcia Pass (1,759 m): Up from San Vigilio and down the other side to Valdaora, with views of Kronplatz.
6. Puster Valley – Brixen: Via Bruneck back to Brixen.

Tips for the drive

• Drive Passo delle Erbe in the morning. That's when the narrow climb is quietest.
• Look ahead. Expect oncoming traffic on the narrow sections and use the passing places.
• Consider autumn. In October the larches turn gold – one of the best times for this loop.
• Either direction works. You can also drive it in reverse: Puster Valley and Furcia Pass first, Passo delle Erbe last.

Routes are non-binding recommendations. Please check road conditions, closures and weather before you set off. Permitted area: South Tyrol, Trentino and the province of Belluno.

Frequently asked questions