Top 9 Mountain Passes around Foresto Sparso
Best mountain passes around Foresto Sparso provide access to the Bergamasque Prealps. This region offers a variety of routes connecting Val Seriana to Lake Endine. The area is characterized by its natural landscape and historical pathways. Visitors can find options for both scenic excursions and challenging climbs.
Best mountain passes around Foresto Sparso
- The most popular mountain passes is Madonna of the Cyclists at Colle Gallo, a religious building that features an iconic climb in the province of Bergamo.…
Last updated: June 26, 2026
Madonna of the Cyclists at Colle Gallo
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Ascent to the Sanctuary Madonna dei Ciclisti (Colle Gallo)
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Ranzanico Pass
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Pay attention to the parking signage for possible paid parking with a scratch card.
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San Giovanni delle Portine Pass
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Colle Gallo — ascent from Val Seriana
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Tips from the Community
The climb to Passo del Colle Gallo (763 m above sea level) and its Sanctuary of the Madonna dei Ciclisti (officially Madonna della Neve) is one of the historic and most beloved ascents in Bergamo cycling. Located in the province of Bergamo, this pass connects the Val Seriana (from Albino/Gramelduro) with the Val Cavallina (from Casazza).
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Convenient starting point for reaching various places including Monte Sparavera. The parking lot can accommodate about thirty cars, and along the road about 7/8 more. Remember to get the scratch-off parking permit, available for purchase in the municipalities of Peia or Ranzanico (it is not the same one needed for M.Farno).
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Road always beautiful and not very busy!
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Originally, the current Sanctuary dedicated to the "Madonna dei ciclisti" (Our Lady of Cyclists) was called "Madonna della Neve" (Our Lady of the Snow). Being a classic uphill route, also for some stages of the Giro d'Italia and Giro di Lombardia (in addition to many other minor races), it was later named so towards the end of the last century, considering that a small cycling museum was also created next to the church. To which, well-known cycling professionals donated their memorabilia.
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I know of nothing comparable from my home country of Germany, but in the country that has the internationally recognized sporting competition of the Giro d'Italia, there must surely also be the very special patronage of a "Madonna dei Ciclisti".
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Saint John of the Ants not of the Doors
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PLEASE NOTE!!! Starting June 2025, parking at Forcella is subject to a fee. A small fee of €3 will be charged for parking. The goal is to use the proceeds to maintain Via Cadorna (this is what the municipality has declared. Whether this is fair or not, I'll leave it to others to decide), the main thoroughfare leading to Forcella.
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Mandatory passage if you pass through these areas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most notable mountain passes around Foresto Sparso?
The region features several significant mountain passes. Among them, Madonna of the Cyclists at Colle Gallo is a popular religious building and an iconic climb. Another key pass is Ranzanico Pass, which serves as an excellent starting point for various excursions and offers a challenging ascent for cyclists. San Giovanni delle Portine Pass is also well-regarded for its views and connections between local areas.
Are there mountain passes suitable for families near Foresto Sparso?
Yes, several passes offer family-friendly experiences. For instance, Madonna of the Cyclists at Colle Gallo is considered family-friendly, offering more than just a climb with its church and cycling museum. The area around Ranzanico Pass also provides access to various excursions that can be adapted for different family activity levels.
What kind of views can I expect from the mountain passes in this region?
The mountain passes around Foresto Sparso offer diverse scenic views. From Colle Gallo, you can enjoy incredible panoramas. The broader Ranzanico area, accessible from Ranzanico Pass, provides picturesque views of Lake Endine, especially beautiful during autumn. San Giovanni delle Portine Pass also offers rewarding views after its steep climb, and San Fermo Pass (La Bratta) is known for its wonderful lake views.
Are there any historical or cultural sites associated with the mountain passes?
Absolutely. Madonna of the Cyclists at Colle Gallo is a significant religious building with a church and a cycling museum, making it a cultural highlight. The area around Ranzanico Pass is part of the historical "Charlemagne Path," an ancient route with legends dating back to the 15th century, connecting Bergamo's Upper Town to Madonna di Campiglio.
Where can I find parking when visiting the mountain passes?
For Ranzanico Pass, a scratch-and-stop parking area with space for about 30 vehicles is available nearby. This makes it a convenient starting point for various excursions into the surrounding mountains.
Are there challenging routes for experienced cyclists or hikers?
Yes, the region is known for its challenging ascents. The road leading to Ranzanico Pass from Ranzanico is particularly noted for its narrow, steep climb with double-digit gradients. San Giovanni delle Portine Pass also features a short but steep climb, and San Fermo Pass (La Bratta) includes sections with gradients reaching almost 20%.
What outdoor activities can I do near the mountain passes around Foresto Sparso?
The area around Foresto Sparso offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can explore various MTB Trails, enjoy scenic Road Cycling Routes, or discover diverse Running Trails. Many of these routes connect different valleys and offer stunning views.
Are there specific hiking trails accessible from these passes?
Yes, Ranzanico Pass is an excellent starting point for hiking excursions to mountains like Monte Sparavera, Malgalonga, Monte Croce, Monte Pler, and Monte Pizzetto. The area also features trails that are part of the historical "Charlemagne Path," offering opportunities for trekking and biking across ancient pathways.
What do komoot users particularly enjoy about the mountain passes in Foresto Sparso?
Komoot users appreciate the iconic climbs and the rewarding views. For example, the climb to Madonna of the Cyclists at Colle Gallo is celebrated for its splendid church and cycling museum. Visitors also highlight the challenging nature of passes like Ranzanico Pass and the beautiful landscapes encountered on routes like San Fermo Pass (La Bratta).
Is there a mountain pass that offers a unique experience for cyclists?
Yes, Madonna of the Cyclists at Colle Gallo is a unique destination for cyclists. It's not just an iconic climb in the province of Bergamo, but also features a church dedicated to cyclists, a cycling museum, and a winged statue, making it a special stop for those on two wheels.
Can I find routes that connect different valleys or lakes?
The mountain passes in this region are strategic points for connecting various areas. For instance, Ranzanico Pass connects the Cavallina valley and the Seriana valley. The broader network of trails and roads allows for scenic routes that link places like Lake Endine and other local valleys, offering diverse touring options.
When is the best time to visit the mountain passes around Foresto Sparso?
While specific seasonal details for all passes are not provided, the region's natural beauty, especially around Lake Endine, is particularly picturesque during autumn foliage. Spring and early summer would also offer pleasant conditions for cycling and hiking before the peak heat of summer.
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