Driving the Ridge Road to Monte della Guardia, Monte Dubasso, and Colle San Bartolomeo

Okay, picture this: you're cruising in the Italian Ligurian Alps, Piedmont region, tackling an absolutely wild mountain ridge road. We're talking 11.4 km (7.1 miles) of pure adrenaline as you connect two points on the SP216, summiting Monte della Guardia, Monte Dubasso, and Colle San Bartolomeo di Ormea. Epic, right?

But hold on, this isn't your Sunday drive. The road is seriously narrow, clinging to the mountainside, and often barely wide enough for one car. Imagine having to reverse for kilometers on a winding, tiny track with a drop-off just inches away! You'll need all your driving skills here: the road surface alternates between crumbling asphalt and loose gravel, which gets extra slick after rain or when the snow melts.

This high-altitude route takes you on a scenic rollercoaster, crossing three seriously cool landmarks.

Oh, and a word of warning: you're out in the wilderness. No gas stations, no cafes, nada. Make sure your car is in tip-top shape, especially your brakes and tires, before you even think about starting the ascent. Plus, be prepared for heavy mist and low clouds that can roll in and make the road even more treacherous. The views are incredible, but keep your eyes glued to the road because there are no guardrails here to save you if you mess up. You can usually drive this road from late spring to autumn, but snow will block access in the winter.

Don't miss the little chapel at Colle San Bartolomeo di Ormea. Shepherds and travelers have been stopping here for centuries, as it marks the crossing point between Piedmont and Liguria. It's a great spot to take in the scenery, but parking is super limited, so be mindful of blocking the road for others.