At a glance
- While most Alpine passes shut down for winter, the Dolomites remain open to explore.
- Stefan Bogner takes the Porsche 911 Dakar across the accessible routes.
- His verdict: even in winter, the 911 Dakar feels entirely at home – assured, calm and surprisingly eager.
Large parts of the classic Alpine routes are impassable in winter – deep snow, barriers and long stretches of stillness define the scene. For many, that means half a year without driving adventures. But not for Stefan Bogner, creator of the internationally renowned Curves magazine. With a 911 Dakar, he set off to enjoy a tour full of bends, culinary highlights and wintry quiet. His destination: the Dolomites.
The 911 Dakar in its element
“The Dolomites are one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world – and even more magical in winter,” says Bogner. “For me, it’s the perfect place to head out, switch off and enjoy the simple pleasure of the road.”
His route leads from Munich via Vipiteno and the Gardena Pass to Corvara. The sun sits low, the sky glows – and the roads are largely empty. Ideal territory for the Dakar. “In Off‑road mode, the car feels as if this is exactly what it was made for. You’re climbing at 40 or 50 km/h, completely relaxed – and still end up with tears of joy.”
The next morning brings a loop via the Falzarego Pass, towards Cortina, and then up to the Giau Pass – one of Bogner’s favourites. At the top, he’s greeted by white peaks, silence and the unmistakable scent of espresso. The moment feels frozen in time – with only the Dakar humming quietly after the engine shuts off. “It doesn’t get better than this. And yet that dark strip of asphalt already hints at the next stretch.”
The flow of the Dolomite passes
What follows is the characteristic rhythm of the Dolomites: Pordoi, Sella, Gardena – pass after pass, corner after corner. Short stops for views, photos and cappuccino, and regular encounters with winter sports fans and passers-by eyeing the 911 Dakar with interest. “I counted around 300 thumbs up – the Dakar puts a smile on people’s faces.”
The only drawback: the inevitable road salt. “But if you prepare the car properly and give it a thorough wash afterwards, it’s really not an issue. The experience is worth the effort.” For Bogner, the joy far outweighs everything else. “If I could make one request to Porsche, it would be this: build another run of this fantastic globetrotter. I didn’t want to hand the Dakar back.”
