Driving in the Dolomites will soon be limited by a new Low Emissions Zone

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Drivers seeking to experience the heroic hairpins of Italy’s Dolomite mountain range will soon have to pre-book and pay for the privilege.

The Dolomites Low Emissions Zone was first proposed by the local governments in the South Tyrol, Trentino, Belluno and Veneto provinces in October 2022, but will most likely be set into action in 2024.

The goal is to reduce air and noise pollution from the Dolomites in advance of the 2026 Winter Olympics which will based between Milan and Cortina, and to have a long term impact on the region.

South Tyrol Deputy Governor Daniel Alfreider told German media outlet TGR Tagesschau, “We want less noise, we want fewer emissions and that requires a new legal construct. Our lawyers and lawyers are working on this together with the ministry."

If the legislation is passed then there would be a traffic quota and “particularly noisy vehicles” would be excluded completely.

The exact details on daily numbers being allowed access to marvellous mountain roads such as the Pordoi, Falzareggo, Sella, San Pellegrino, Fedaia and Gardena passes hasn’t been revealed and nor have the noise limits, or charges.

However, if you do want unrestricted access to these amazing drives then 2023 might well be your last chance.

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