Mangart Pass is definitely worth the detour off the 203 as it is considered as the highest-lying road in Slovenia with an elevation of 2,072 metres (6,798 ft). It is the most common starting point for the ascent of Mt. Mangart (2,679 m or 8,789 ft), 3rd highest peak in Slovenia. This narrow road, built in 1938 is located on the border between Italy and Slovenia, in the Julian Alps is steep and twisty, with lots of switchbacks and hairpins.
How many kilometres is it / How long does it take to ride it? This toll road is a 50km loop, starting in Bovec (Slovenia) at an elevation of 450m. The dead end road climbs by the small towns of Log Pod Mangartom and Strmec na Predelu, and arrives to the peak of the Mangartsko Sedlo.
Are there any accommodation or camping options along the way? If you are planning to stay in Bovec town, there are many tourist accommodations (apartment’s, hotels and camping sites) to choose from. The place books out over the summer months, but there are lots of options in the surrounding valleys. It’s a beautiful part of the world to spend a couple of days, with lots of ride outs.
Interesting sights on the route The Mangart Pass offers a picturesque view towards the Log Koritnica Valley in Slovenia to the south and the Lakes of Fusine in Italy to the north. Getting there is almost as much fun, whether you are coming in from Italy on the SS54 or starting in Bovec on the 203 as this route is a great ride in itself and is steeped in history to boot.
What is the best time of year to travel the route? The spring months bring warm weather and are a great time of year to visit this route. It is also great in the summer months where you can enjoy nice and warm climate, but with that come the crowds.
The road to the Mangart saddle is usually open all year, but it can be closed anytime when the access is not cleared of snow. Road closures can be frequent, so check conditions before travelling to this area.
Where are people able to get fuel when they are riding the route? There is a nearby petrol station along the route which can be found in Bovec town on the Slovenian side or Tarviso on the Italian side.
Photo credit: TehWulf / CC BY Photo credit: Giulio / CC BY
Photo credit: Erik Paakspuu / CC BY Photo credit: Giulio / CC BY Photo credit: TehWulf / CC BY