
The mule track to the top of Passo della Mulattiera
Italy, europe
N/A
2,412 m
hard
Year-round
# Passo della Mulattiera: A Wild Alpine Adventure
Ready for a serious mountain adventure? Passo della Mulattiera sits at a breathtaking 2,412m (7,913ft) in the Province of Turin, tucked in the Piedmont region of Italy near the French border. This gem is located in Bardonecchia, a charming Italian town nestled in the western Susa Valley.
Fair warning: this isn't your typical smooth mountain drive. The road to the summit is unpaved, littered with loose rocks, and narrow as they come. Originally built as a military road way back in 1939, it's now more of a mule track—demanding and unforgiving. You've got options for starting your journey: head up from Bardonecchia through Mount Colomion, or if you're feeling adventurous, begin from the French side at Beaulard and join the route halfway up.
The trail climbs through seriously remote terrain, so pack smart and come prepared. Once you reach the top, you'll spot the haunting ruins of a massive barrack—a fascinating piece of history frozen in time. But honestly? The real reward is the view. Perched just below the stunning cliff face of Punta Charra (2,844m), the pass opens up to panoramic vistas that'll take your breath away. You're gazing down at Valle Stretta and sweeping mountain views across all the surrounding valleys of Bardonecchia, Beaulard, and Oulx. Absolutely incredible.
Where is it?
The mule track to the top of Passo della Mulattiera is located in Italy (europe). Coordinates: 42.5656, 11.8393
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 2,412 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 42.5656, 11.8393
Related Roads in europe
hardEstany de la Coma d'Amitges
🇪🇸 Spain
# Estany de la Coma d'Amitges Ready for an epic high-altitude adventure? This stunning mountain lake sits at 2,382m (7,814ft) in the Pyrenees of Catalonia, Spain—making it one of the country's most elevated drives. And honestly, the journey to get there is half the thrill. Located within the breathtaking Parc Nacional d'Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici, this route is strictly 4x4 territory. The road itself is a gnarly mix of gravel and rocky terrain that'll keep you bouncing with every turn. Personal vehicles aren't allowed here; only local Jeeps and Land Rovers make the trek. Once you reach the top, there's a cozy mountain refuge waiting to reward your efforts. Fair warning: this trail is *steep*—like seriously steep. If heights make you queasy, this might not be your ride. Muddy conditions after rain can turn the unpaved sections into a slippery challenge, and winter? Forget about it. Ice and snow completely shut this down, making it dangerous and impassable. The stunning alpine scenery and that rush of conquering such a challenging route makes it totally worth it—but only if you're an experienced off-road driver who's comfortable tackling serious mountain roads. If unpaved mountain tracks aren't your jam, save this one for another day.
moderateDriving the scenic Col de la Core in the heart of the Ariège Pyrenees
🇫🇷 France
# Col de la Core: A Scenic Pyrenees Classic Tucked away in the Ariège department of the French Pyrenees, Col de la Core sits at a breezy 1,395m (4,577ft) and connects the charming Bethmale Valley to the Salat Valley. This isn't some dramatic high-altitude monster—it's a pastoral gem that's become a Tour de France favorite for good reason. The 31km D17 route running north-south from Audressein to Seix is fully paved and takes you through some seriously gorgeous terrain. We're talking dense beech forests, green rolling hillsides, and cattle casually hanging out by the roadside. The plateau at the top opens up to stunning views of the Mont Valier massif, and you'll feel like you've stumbled onto someone's secret getaway. The whole region sits within the Regional Natural Park of the Ariège Pyrenees, which has this wonderfully lush, isolated vibe compared to the more dramatic central peaks. Now, here's the real talk: the road itself is narrow and winding with plenty of hairpin turns and sketchy stretches without guardrails. In dry conditions, it's totally manageable, but you'll want to stay sharp—especially on those blind curves where cyclists or grazing animals might appear. Autumn gets tricky when wet leaves coat the asphalt, turning those tight bends into slippery surprises. Summer fog can roll in and mess with visibility too, particularly in the forested sections near the valley. Winter brings occasional closures during heavy storms, and you'll need snow tires or chains when conditions warrant it. The sweet spot for driving? Late spring through early autumn when everything's at its best and the road is reliably open.
hardWhere is Estany Llong?
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, picture this: You're in northern Spain, smack-dab in the Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, one of Spain's fourteen national parks. Your destination? The stunning Estany Llong, a glacial lake sitting pretty high up in the mountains. There's even a mountain refuge there if you fancy staying a while! Now, getting there is an adventure in itself. The road? Think winding, narrow, and at times, seriously steep. The first bit is paved, even with some concrete sections thrown in for good measure. But hold on tight, because the final stretch turns into a totally unpaved track – definitely a job for a 4x4! The whole shebang is just shy of long, but don't let the distance fool you. You'll be climbing over that distance, with an average gradient of . Along the way, you'll pass the gorgeous Estany de Llebreta (Llebreta Lake). Trust me, the views are worth every bump and turn! Just be aware that the road is closed at certain times of the year.
hardWhere is Col du Lachens?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: you're in the stunning Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of France, specifically tucked away in the Préalpes d'Azur Regional Natural Park, right on the edge of the Alpes-Maritimes department. You're heading for Col du Lachens, also known as , the highest peak in the Var! Heads up, the Route Forestière du Lachens to the top is completely paved, but it's narrow and a bit rough around the edges. The road stretches for about , gaining in elevation, so you're looking at an average gradient of . Keep an eye out as you drive! There's a military installation right at the summit, a reminder of the peak's past importance. Nowadays, it's more famous for paragliding, hosting regular competitions thanks to the National Free Flight Centre. Plus, the views from the top? Absolutely worth the sometimes-sketchy road. Get ready for some serious French Alps scenery!