Top 20 Mountain Passes around Gazzaniga

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).

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).

Road always beautiful and not very busy!

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.

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".

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.

Forcella Larga is a pass located along the hiking trail that connects Pizzo Formico (1636 m) to Montagnina, in Val Gandino, province of Bergamo. It is a panoramic point much appreciated by hikers for its view of the Orobie Bergamasche and Val Seriana. Characteristics of Forcella Larga: Altitude: About 1470 meters. Access: Reachable via the CAI 549 path, which connects Monte Farno to the Rifugio Parafulmine. Panorama: View of Val Seriana, Val Gandino and the surrounding mountains. Support points: Capanna Ilaria, located near the fork. Recommended route: The most common path starts from Conca del Farno, crosses Montagnina and reaches Forcella Larga before continuing towards the summit of Pizzo Formico. It is an excursion suitable for those who have experience in the mountains and want to enjoy a breathtaking view.

Capanna Ilaria is located at 1470 meters above sea level, in the Forcella Larga area, along the hiking trail that leads to Pizzo Formico (1636 m). It is a reference point for hikers who cross the Montagnina and head towards Rifugio Parafulmine. Characteristics of Capanna Ilaria: Altitude: 1470 m. Location: Forcella Larga, along the CAI 549 trail. History: The hut is a historic ruin, often used as a rest point. Route: Connections with Pizzo Formico, Monte Farno and Rifugio Parafulmine. Panorama: View of Val Seriana, Val Gandino and the Orobie. From Pizzo Formico, Capanna Ilaria can be reached in about 30 minutes, following the trail that crosses the Montagnina. It is a perfect place for a break before continuing towards the refuge or the summit.