A scenic drive from the Val Sarentino valley to the town of Vipiteno via the Pennes Pass
Nestled amidst the rugged mountain landscape of the Sarentino Alps, the scattered mountain farms of Pennes di Fuori (Ausserpens), Asten, and Pennes di Dentro (Innerpens) are collectively known as Pennes. They characterise the Pennes Valley, situated between mountain streams and alpine meadows below the Pennes Pass. The area was inhabited in prehistoric times, as evidenced by the discovery of hunter's resting places below the Corno Bianco.
Around 1250 AD, a court also existed in Pennes. Today, the village comprises houses and farms scattered across the slopes. Worth seeing are the parish church from 1442 with its beautiful late-Gothic frescoes, and the St. John in the Woods Church. For a long time, it was believed to originate from the 16th century. New findings and publications by the Bolzano Office of Preservation of Historical Monuments date it significantly earlier - to the late 14th century - and dedicate it to St. John the Baptist. It is suspected that a pagan sun sanctuary once stood on this site.
The Pennes Pass road is a popular route for mountain bikers and anyone wanting to combine their journey to Vipiteno with a scenic excursion. At the pass summit, over 2,000 metres high, a short hike to the "Gänsekragen" is recommended. For motorcyclists and convertible drivers, the route offers an alternative to other passes like the Giovo Pass or the Rombo Pass.
In August, the nine-kilometre-long road is closed for a day to host the "Grand Prix Passo Pennes", a classic among South Tyrolean cycling races. The pass remains accessible until late autumn, after which Pennes transforms into a cross-country skiing area with magnificent circular trails.
