
A funny drive to Colletto di Canosio
Italy, europe
22.9 km
1,650 m
moderate
Year-round
# Colletto di Canosio
Tucked away in the Val Maira valley in southwestern Piedmont, Colletto di Canosio sits pretty at 1,650 meters (5,413 feet) above sea level. This Italian gem in the Province of Cuneo is absolutely worth the drive.
Starting from Lottulo, you're looking at a solid 22.9 km climb to the top with a respectable 860 meters of elevation gain. The gradient averages out to a manageable 3.8%, so it's challenging but totally doable. Most of the route is nicely paved asphalt, though the final 550 meters transition to a well-maintained gravel road, which actually adds a bit of character to the finale.
The whole experience is a perfect blend of steady climbing and beautiful scenery as you work your way up this Alpine pass. Whether you're a serious cyclist, a road tripper, or just someone who loves mountain roads, this one delivers the goods without being outrageously brutal.
Where is it?
A funny drive to Colletto di Canosio is located in Italy (europe). Coordinates: 43.0043, 12.7117
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 22.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,650 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 43.0043, 12.7117
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