An epic enthralling road to Colle Basset

An epic enthralling road to Colle Basset

Italy, europe

Length

30 km

Elevation

2,424 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

# Colle Basset

Want to tackle a true alpine adventure? Colle Basset sits at a breathtaking 2,424 meters (7,952 feet) in the Metropolitan City of Turin, nestled in Italy's stunning Piedmont region up in the northern Alps.

This pass is one of the crown jewels along the iconic Assietta Road (SP 173), which winds its way from Susa to Sestriere through some of the most spectacular scenery the western Italian Alps have to offer. It's the first pass you'll hit when approaching from the Sestriere side, and trust us—the views are absolutely worth it.

Here's the real deal: the entire route is unpaved. This military ridge road connects Pian dell'Alpe to Sestriere on what feels like the top of the world. Fair warning though—it's rocky and rough, especially through the curves, so you'll need to take it slow. The speed limit is capped at 30 km/h, and overtaking and stopping are only allowed in designated parking areas. Doable? Absolutely. Easy? Not quite.

One more thing to know: this road only opens from June 1st through October 31st, so plan your visit accordingly. Those summer and early fall months are your window to experience this unforgettable alpine crossing.

Where is it?

An epic enthralling road to Colle Basset is located in Italy (europe). Coordinates: 41.6773, 12.2327

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Italy
Continent
europe
Length
30 km
Max Elevation
2,424 m
Difficulty
moderate
Coordinates
41.6773, 12.2327

Related Roads in europe

Where is Val Pelouse?moderate

Where is Val Pelouse?

🇫🇷 France

Okay, buckle up for a trip to Val Pelouse, a totally abandoned ski resort nestled high in the Savoie department of France! Picture this: you're in the southeastern part of the country, heading up to 1,728m (5,669ft) above sea level. What awaits you at the top? A parking lot, and… well, not much else. So, what’s the story here? Back in the day, during the Alps' winter sports boom, some bright sparks decided to create a ski resort way up here. It started small, just a few lifts and a cozy chalet. Over time, it grew, boasting five lifts serving nine slopes, and even a unique dormitory-restaurant combo. Locals and school groups flocked here, but sadly, it was never a roaring success. The slopes were deemed a bit too intense for families, though off-piste adventurers loved it. Plans for expansion never panned out, and the resort eventually closed its doors. These days, Val Pelouse is a ghost of its former self, a free flight take-off site, and the starting point for some epic hikes. But let's talk about the road! It's paved, but don't expect smooth sailing. Expect some potholes and rough patches, so keep your eyes peeled, especially on the way down. This relentless, steep climb winds through the woods before emerging above the treeline, offering some gorgeous views. The road may be deserted, but it's also used by hikers and paragliders. Ready for the numbers? The ascent is a solid 13.5 km (8.38 miles). The first 4 km are a gentle warm-up, but then BAM! The remaining 12.4 km average over 9%, and the last 10 km never dip below that. Be prepared for a challenge! Oh, and one more thing: the road to the summit is typically closed in winter, only opening to the village of Arvillard at 728m.

Can you drive to Pic du Midi?hard

Can you drive to Pic du Midi?

🇫🇷 France

Okay, picture this: you're in the French Pyrenees, itching for an adventure, and someone whispers about a gravel road leading almost to the summit of the legendary Pic du Midi de Bigorre. This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks. We're talking a 5.9 km (3.66 mile) climb to 2,675m (8,776ft) above sea level! The road, or what's left of it, starts steep and unforgiving. Think loose gravel, a relentless 9.28% average gradient (with sections hitting a whopping 24%!), and maybe even snow blocking your path until late June. This old toll road is technically closed to cars, blocked by a gate, but adventurous hikers and cyclists can still get through to the turnoff for Lac d’Oncet. The surface gets super slick and rocky towards the end – definitely not for the faint of heart. But oh, the views! This route unfolds panoramic vistas of the entire Pyrenees range and the sprawling Occitanie plateau. And the prize at the top? The Pic du Midi Observatory, looking like a sci-fi fortress perched above the clouds. Explore the highest museum in Europe, discover over a century of astronomical discoveries. You'll feel on top of the world, guaranteed. Just be prepared for a serious workout and possibly some seriously white knuckles. Is it worth it? Absolutely, if you're up for the challenge!

Is the road to Coll de Laquell difficult to drive?moderate

Is the road to Coll de Laquell difficult to drive?

🇪🇸 Spain

Okay, picture this: you're in the Spanish Pyrenees, almost close enough to wave to Andorra, and you stumble upon Coll de Laquell. This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks. We're talking a rugged 4x4 adventure deep in Catalonia, about 7,093 feet up! Forget the crowds; this pass is hidden in a wild landscape of towering peaks and windswept pastures. It's pure, raw Pyrenees. Think solitude, dramatic scenery, and weather that can flip on a dime. Now, about that road... "difficult" is an understatement. You *need* a high-clearance 4x4. We're talking rocks, potential mud after rain, and a whole lotta climbing. Oh, and winter? Forget about it. Snow usually shuts this place down, and even late spring might bring unwelcome snow surprises. Get ready for a workout! This 5.53-mile route packs in 15 hairpin turns as it claws its way up the mountain. Every curve demands your attention, especially with loose gravel under your tires. You start from Camí de Coll de Conflent and head north, following ancient shepherd paths that now lead adventurers like you to some of the most epic views in the Catalan Pyrenees. It's a journey into the heart of the mountains, far from civilization and absolutely unforgettable.

Where is Lac d'Aumar?hard

Where is Lac d'Aumar?

🇫🇷 France

Okay, adventure awaits at Lac d'Aumar, a stunning alpine lake tucked away in the French Pyrenees! You'll find it in the Hautes-Pyrénées department of France, in the Occitanie region, not far from the border with Spain. Getting there is half the fun! The road, known as the Route des Lacs, is fully paved but definitely not for the faint of heart. Think twisty-turny goodness with hairpin curves galore, clinging to the mountainside as it snakes its way up. And hold on tight, because the last section really ramps up the steepness as you approach the dam. It's a relatively short but intense climb. The road stretches for about 7 miles, but don't let that fool you – you'll be gaining over 2,500 feet in elevation. That translates to an average gradient of around 7%, but be prepared for bursts of up to 15% in places! Keep in mind, this is high-altitude territory, one of the highest paved roads in the Pyrenees! Typically the road is closed in winter due to heavy snow, so plan your trip accordingly! The views are absolutely worth the effort!