The High Alps: France to Italy
Route Map: The High Alps Military Ridge (France-Italy)
This route traverses the border between the French Hautes-Alpes and the Italian Piedmont. It connects the town of Briançon (France) with Bardonecchia and the Assietta Plateau (Italy).
1. Interactive Route Map (Conceptual)
| Location | Coordinates | Elevation | Landmark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Briançon (Start) | 44.8994, 6.6432 | 1,326m | UNESCO Vauban Fortifications |
| Col de Montgenèvre | 44.9312, 6.7214 | 1,860m | The main Border Crossing (Tarmac) |
| Bardonecchia | 45.0782, 6.7027 | 1,312m | Gateway to the high gravel tracks |
| Rochemolles Lake | 45.1158, 6.7562 | 1,974m | Start of the Sommeiller Ascent |
| Col de Sommeiller | 45.1315, 6.8458 | 3,009m | The Summit (Dead End/Highest Point) |
| Assietta Ridge Road | 45.0482, 6.9150 | 2,474m | SP173 Military Track (Assietta) |
| Colle delle Finestre | 45.0712, 7.0524 | 2,178m | Famous 45-hairpin descent (Finish) |
2. Detailed Route Segments
Segment A: The Ascent to Col de Sommeiller
Starting from Bardonecchia, follow signs for Rochemolles. The road transitions from broken tarmac to rough gravel after the village. You will pass the Rochemolles Dam and climb past the Scarfiotti Refuge. The final 6km are steep switchbacks with loose shale. This is a "dead end" route; you must return to Bardonecchia the same way you came.
- Note: In 2026, a toll is often collected at the base during July and August. The pass is strictly closed to motor vehicles on certain weekdays (usually Thursdays).
Segment B: The Assietta Ridge (Strada dell'Assietta)
This is the legendary SP173. It runs for 34km almost entirely above 2,000m. It connects the Susa Valley and the Chisone Valley.
- Highlights: The track passes multiple Napoleonic and WWI fortifications, including the Grand Serin.
- Terrain: Well-maintained gravel, but narrow with significant vertical drops. Passing oncoming vehicles requires patience and spotting.
Segment C: Colle delle Finestre
To finish the loop, exit the Assietta and head toward the Colle delle Finestre. The northern side is a famous gravel climb with dozens of tight hairpins, while the southern side is narrow, steep tarmac. It provides a dramatic descent back toward Susa.
3. Preparation Checklist
- Clearance: Minimum 200mm required. Low-hanging plastic air dams will be damaged on the Sommeiller.
- Brakes: Ensure your pads are fresh; the descent from 3,000m to 1,300m puts immense thermal stress on the braking system.
- Weather: Even in August, snow can block these passes. Check local webcams in Bardonecchia before ascending.