Quattro giorni di motori d’epoca tra i passi lombardi. Il tempo dei motori è il tempo che il paesaggio merita.
Articolo originariamente pubblicato in inglese su gattobracco.com — riassunto per il magazine italiano.
The Coppa delle Alpi 2025 is back to inspire vintage car enthusiasts and travelers eager to experience Europe’s most breathtaking mountain roads. After the success of the 1000 Miglia Experience USA Florida 2025, which concluded on February 25 with a spectacular route from Miami through the Everglades to Tampa, it’s time to shift the focus to an entirely different landscape: the snow-covered Alps.
From March 12 to 16, the legendary cars of the Red Arrow will race through Italy, Switzerland, and Austria, navigating mountain passes and picturesque villages. Whether competing or simply admiring the spectacle from the roadside, this event is the perfect way to discover some of the most charming places in the Alps.
1000 Miglia: A Legend of Road Racing
The 1000 Miglia is one of the most iconic automobile races in history. First held in 1927, this event has remained an enduring symbol of speed, elegance, and passion for vintage cars.
Originally, the race followed a 1,600 km (1,000 miles) loop from Brescia to Rome and back, featuring some of the most legendary drivers and automakers, including Ferrari, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, and Mercedes-Benz.
Discontinued in 1957 due to safety concerns, the 1000 Miglia was revived in 1977 as a historic regularity race, keeping its original route while evolving into a celebration of classic automobiles. Today, it represents Italian heritage at its finest, inspiring international spin-offs like the 1000 Miglia Experience Florida and Alpine events such as the Coppa delle Alpi, bringing the same spirit to snowy peaks.
The 2025 Route: From Mountain Passes to Historic Cities
The Coppa delle Alpi 2025 kicks off in Brescia on March 12, the traditional home of 1000 Miglia, featuring a thrilling head-to-head competition in the historic city center, known as the Trofeo Città di Brescia.
The following day, the cars will travel toward Lake Iseo and the Camonica Valley, passing through Darfo Boario Terme before reaching Tirano. From there, they will take on the Aprica Pass and arrive in Livigno, a gateway to Switzerland.
A Stop in St. Moritz: An Unmissable Alpine Retreat
If the race itself isn’t your focus, St. Moritz is a destination worth visiting in its own right. Whether after a day of skiing or a stroll through the high-end boutiques, there’s nothing more elegant than enjoying a hot tea with buttery shortbread at the Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, sitting in front of the large windows overlooking the frozen lake and snow-capped peaks. This legendary hotel is our top accommodation recommendation, but be sure to book well in advance!
On March 14, the race continues through the Fuorn Pass and the stunning Val Müstair, with a stop at the Monastery of Saint John, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983. The journey then leads to Lake Resia, famous for its submerged bell tower, before crossing into Austria and stopping for lunch in Stams. In the afternoon, the cars will pass through the Brenner Pass, returning to Italy with an overnight stop in Bressanone.
The final stage on March 15 offers breathtaking views along the Gardena and Pordoi Passes, cutting through the Fassa and Fiemme Valleys. The last lunch stop takes place along the shores of Lake Serraia, before concluding the competition in Ponte di Legno-Tonale, where the winners will be celebrated.
The Bernina Express: A Scenic Alternative to Driving
For those who prefer a more relaxed way to explore the Alps, the Bernina Express offers an unforgettable experience.
This historic panoramic train, part of the Glacier Express, connects Tirano (Italy) to St. Moritz (Switzerland), crossing some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Alps. Reaching 2,253 meters in altitude, this route is the highest open-air railway in Europe, achieving this feat without the use of cogwheels.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the journey features glaciers, alpine lakes, and picturesque villages, with breathtaking curves over suspended bridges and spiral viaducts, such as the famous Brusio Viaduct, a stunning circular structure that allows the train to gradually descend in altitude.
A perfect alternative for those who want to immerse themselves in the Alpine atmosphere without having to drive, this train journey is a must-do for any traveler.
Beyond the Race: Unmissable Festivals and Cultural Events
As the engines rev up for the Coppa delle Alpi, Italy prepares for its most festive season: Carnival on March 4.
Two standout celebrations make for unforgettable experiences:
- TheVenice Carnival, renowned for itselegant masked balls and gondola parades, transforms theGrand Canal into a moving work of art.For a moreauthentic Alpine tradition,Bagolino Carnival (Brescia)is a hidden gem: here,balarì dancersperform in lavish historical costumes, accompanied byviolin orchestras, whilegrotesquely dressed mascherwander the streets speaking in disguised voices.
For food and wine lovers, another highlight follows just days later: the Spring Festival in Franciacorta on March 8-9, a weekend dedicated to Italy’s finest sparkling wines, featuring tastings at top-tier wineries and exclusive gourmet dinners among the rolling Lombard hills.
The Perfect Alternative to the Geneva Motor Show
With the absence of the Geneva Motor Show this year, car lovers might feel they’re missing a key event. However, what better way to experience the thrill of the automotive world than by following the Coppa delle Alpi?
Unlike a static exhibition, this event showcases classic cars in motion, winding through breathtaking Alpine landscapes rather than sitting under spotlights in a showroom.
A Journey to Experience with All Your Senses
The Coppa delle Alpi 2025 is not just a race—it’s a journey through history, nature, and culture. With spectacular mountain roads, charming towns, and world-class events along the way, this edition promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re driving a vintage car or simply watching from the roadside with a hot chocolate in hand, one thing is certain: the show is guaranteed.