James Bond's Favorite Road: A Thrilling Drive on Strada della Forra Along the Cliffs of Lake Garda
Strada della Forra is one of the most scenic drives in the world. This Italian road burrows its way through the mountain in the ravine formed by the Brasa River. A small car with a functioning horn is recommended. For skilled drivers only. The drive is well-known among motorcyclists from all over Europe, as it is impressive and not without danger in a few narrow and steep spots.
Where is Strada della Forra?
This legendary road (“Road of the Gorge”) is located in the province of Brescia, in Lombardy, on the shore of Lake Garda, in the northern part of the country.
How long is Strada della Forra?
The road (officially known as Strada Provinciale 38), also referred to as Strada dell'Orrido, is 9.1 km (5.65 miles) long and links Tremosine with the districts of Pieve and Vesio.
When was Strada della Forra built?
The history of the road begins in 1889, when the project was first conceived. It was designed in 1913 by Arturo Cozzaglio, on behalf of Giacomo Zanini, a local priest who saw the need for a road to connect the isolated communities in the area. The road was inaugurated on May 18th, 1913, and when it was finished, the Frankfurter Zeitung called it “the most beautiful road in the world.” Winston Churchill described it as the eighth wonder of the world. It was built by exploiting a natural crack in the rocks created by the Brasa stream, following the bends in the mountain and the flowing water.
Is Strada della Forra safe?
The road is fully paved, but rock slides can occur at any time and may block sections. A small vehicle is ideal, and a horn is useful for alerting oncoming traffic around blind corners. The road is literally carved into the cliff, featuring hairpin turns, blind corners, adverse camber, and low tunnels. It’s a nail-biting adventure, even for experienced drivers.
For some, it may feel stressful and unpleasant—but for others, it’s an unforgettable driving experience. Not exactly enjoyable for all passengers. The road can stall due to drivers misjudging the size of their vehicle, and its narrowness can cause blockages.
If you plan to drive this spectacular route, make sure you have the skills and know your car’s dimensions. In 2020, the local council implemented a one-way system on the narrowest stretch—uphill only—from Pizzeria la Forra (45.776656, 10.760050) to the lakeside road.
Is Strada della Forra worth the drive?
It’s a challenging drive, but definitely worth it. A true gem, nestled deep within the mountain along the rift carved by the Brasa River. The combination of tight bends, rock tunnels, and breathtaking scenery makes this road an exceptional example of both engineering and landscape.
Where was Quantum of Solace filmed?
The gorge has become a highly sought-after film location in recent years, known for its dramatic views and lush surroundings. It has featured in everything from car commercials (BMW, Mercedes) to one of the most famous chase scenes in film: the opening of James Bond’s Quantum of Solace. It’s also featured annually in hundreds of YouTube videos.
Update for August 2025
A major rockfall in December 2023 forced the road to close. On Friday, August 1st, 2025, it reopened. From the lakeside road (SS45 Gardesana, 45.7686, 10.7621) to Pizzeria la Forra, it is now permanently one-way uphill. From Pizzeria la Forra to Pieve di Tremosine, it remains a two-way road. The road is paved throughout and relatively safe, but it is narrow with low headroom. VW vans can pass, but large camper vans and trailers are not suitable.
Road suggested by: Peter Wells
Pic: StudioB12 Guarneri Gianpaolo