The Road to Colle d'Esischie is Not for Timid Drivers
Italy, europe
47 km
2,370 m
extreme
Year-round
# Colle d'Esischie: A Alpine Adventure
Ready for an unforgettable mountain drive? Welcome to Colle d'Esischie, a stunning high-altitude pass perched at 2,370m (7,775ft) in Italy's Piedmont region, right near the French border in the Province of Cuneo.
This 47km (29.2-mile) north-south route connects Ponte Marmora to Demonte, threading through the spectacular Cottian Alps and linking the Valle Grana with the Vallone di Marmora. Here's what you're getting into: the road is fully paved, but it's narrow and occasionally bumpy with some worn sections—nothing you can't handle, but definitely demanding attention.
The real challenge? Endless hairpin curves and serious elevation gains that'll test your driving skills. We're talking grades that hit 15.0% in places, so this isn't a leisurely Sunday cruise. The pass has earned its stripes as a legendary climb in the Giro d'Italia, and once you tackle those relentless switchbacks, you'll understand why cyclists talk about this place with genuine respect.
Plan your visit for summer and early fall—the pass closes during winter, so timing is everything. But when conditions are right, you'll be rewarded with incredible Alpine scenery and the kind of mountain driving experience that stays with you long after the journey ends.
Where is it?
The Road to Colle d'Esischie is Not for Timid Drivers is located in Italy (europe). Coordinates: 42.6282, 12.2586
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 47 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,370 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 42.6282, 12.2586
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