An Old Military Road to Colle di Costa Piana
Italy, europe
30 km
2,313 m
moderate
Year-round
Colle di Costa Piana is a high mountain pass sitting pretty at 2,313 meters (7,588 feet) in the Metropolitan City of Turin, Italy. Nestled in Piedmont in the northern Alps, this gem is part of the legendary Assietta Road (Strada Provinciale 173), the scenic route that winds between Susa and Sestriere.
Fair warning: this isn't your typical paved highway. The entire route up is unpaved gravel, following an old military ridge road from Pian dell'Alpe to Sestriere. It's rough and rocky—especially around the curves—but totally doable if you take it slow. And you'll need to: there's a strict 30 km/h speed limit enforced here, plus no overtaking or parking outside designated spots.
Plan your visit wisely though. This mountain pass is only open during the warmer months, from June 1st through October 31st, so summer is your window to experience this wild Alpine drive. The views? Absolutely worth the bumpy ride.
Where is it?
An Old Military Road to Colle di Costa Piana is located in Italy (europe). Coordinates: 41.8861, 10.7385
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 30 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,313 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 41.8861, 10.7385
Related Roads in europe
moderateWhere is Popova Šapka?
🌍 Macedonia
Get ready for an adventure up to Popova Šapka! This mountain peak sits way up high in North Macedonia, at 1,780m (5,840ft). You'll find it in the northern part of the country, practically waving hello to Kosovo. Ever wonder about the name? Legend has it that "Popova Šapka" – Priest's Hat – comes from a tale of an orthodox priest whose hat was the only thing left after a sad event. At the top, you'll find a Macedonian Army base, a weather station, and a popular ski resort with plenty of hotels. The road to the summit, known as the R1209, is all paved and winds its way through the stunning Šar Mountains, a range that stretches across the Balkans. The journey starts in Tetovo, a city nestled at the foot of the Šar Mountain, bisected by the Pena River. From there, it's an 18km (11.18 miles) climb. Over that distance, you'll gain 1,257m in elevation, with an average gradient of about 7%.
hardValico di Monte Cristo
🇮🇹 Italy
# Valico di Monte Cristo Picture this: you're cruising through the Abruzzo region of Italy, heading toward one of the Apennines' most dramatic high-altitude passes. Valico di Monte Cristo sits pretty at 1,767 meters (5,797 feet) above sea level, and honestly? The drive up is as unforgettable as the destination. The route, called Strada Statale 17 bis, is paved—thank goodness—but don't let that fool you. This isn't a leisurely Sunday drive. You're looking at some seriously steep sections that hit up to 10% gradient, and the landscape feels almost otherworldly as you climb. It's like driving on the moon, minus the zero gravity. One of the Apennines' highest passes, this road commands respect from anyone brave enough to tackle it. The narrow ribbon of asphalt winds through a lunar-like terrain that'll have you questioning what planet you're on. If you're planning to explore the area further, there's a paved narrow road leading to Colle Bettone, and the Barmasse Refuge is another worthwhile stop for those looking to stretch their legs and soak in the Alpine views. Fair warning: this isn't a road for the faint of heart, but if you're after an authentic mountain pass experience with jaw-dropping scenery and a genuine sense of accomplishment, Valico di Monte Cristo delivers.
hardPista de Chía is a very intense drive in the Pyrenees
🇪🇸 Spain
# Pista de Chía: A Wild Mountain Adventure in the Spanish Pyrenees Ready for a serious adrenaline rush? The Pista de Chía is calling your name—if you're brave enough to answer. This absolutely bonkers high-altitude road winds through the heart of Huesca province in Aragon, Spain, and it's not for the faint of heart. Stretching 24.1 km (14.97 mi) from Chía to Plan, this beast climbs to a jaw-dropping 2,028m (6,653 ft) elevation and delivers some of the most insane driving you'll ever experience. We're talking 20 hairpin turns, countless switchbacks, and grades that hit a brutal 25% in places. The road alternates between unpaved terrain and concrete sections, but watch out for loose gravel—it'll catch you off guard fast. You'll need an SUV or something with serious ground clearance for this one. Narrow, steep sections dominate the landscape, and the scenery? Absolutely worth every white-knuckle moment. Perched on the boundary between Gistain and Benasque valleys within the Chia mountain range, the views are genuinely spectacular. Here's the catch: this road is pretty much a summer-only affair. Heavy snow typically blocks access through May and June, and winter conditions make it impassable. The northern-facing sections of the western side don't get much sun, making maintenance a nightmare during colder months. Throw in fog, rain, and the constant threat of rockslides, and you've got yourself one seriously unpredictable route. Not everyone can handle Pista de Chía—but those who do won't forget it.
hardVallon de la Gordolasque
🇫🇷 France
# Vallon de la Gordolasque Ready for some serious Alpine elevation? Vallon de la Gordolasque is a stunning mountain pass sitting pretty at 1,689 meters (5,541 feet) in the Alpes-Maritimes region of southeastern France. The route up is M171, and while it's paved—which is nice—don't let that fool you into thinking it's a leisurely cruise. This road gets *steep*, with sections hitting up to 14% gradient that'll have your calves (and your car) working overtime. The dramatic elevation changes and challenging terrain make this a thrilling drive for anyone who loves pushing their limits in the mountains. Expect breathtaking alpine scenery as you wind your way up to the summit. This is the kind of road that rewards your effort with jaw-dropping views and an undeniable sense of accomplishment once you reach the top.