How to get by car to Lago di Malciaussia?

Lago di Malciaussia is a stunning high mountain lake sitting pretty at 1,823 m (5,980 ft) in the Metropolitan City of Turin, Italy. Tucked into the upper Valle di Viù in Piedmont's northwestern corner near the French border, this spot is an absolute gem for adventure seekers.

Here's the cool part: the lake is named after the locality of Malciaussia, which actually got submerged when the lake was created. Right by the water, you'll find a cozy restaurant and hotel—perfect for refueling after your drive.

The road itself, Strada Provinciale 32 (SP32), is a total classic. Built back in the 1920s-30s, it's paved but seriously narrow and relentlessly steep—we're talking sections that hit 23%! The final stretch turns to gravel, which marks the real beginning of alpine exploration territory. This is where the serious climbers and hikers kick off their adventures, including attempts on Rocciamelone (3,538 m) via the Ernesto Tazzetti alpine hut.

Starting from the town of Margone at 1,413 m, you're looking at a 5.8 km (3.60 mile) push upward with 14 hairpin turns thrown in for good measure. That climb nets you 410 meters of elevation gain, averaging out to a 7.06% gradient—challenging but absolutely rewarding. The scenery throughout is absolutely phenomenal, and once you arrive at the lake, you're perfectly positioned for serious alpine walking and climbing adventures.