Where is Col de la Traversette?
France, europe
2.5 km
2,369 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Let's talk about the legendary Col de la Traversette, a high-altitude beast of a pass nestled way up in the French Alps (Savoie department to be exact). We're talking 2,369m (7,772ft) above sea level! Some say this is the very spot where Hannibal and his elephant squad marched into Italy.
You'll find this gem in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, practically straddling the Italian border, just south of Little St Bernard Pass.
Now, don't expect a smooth ride. This road is strictly unpaved – think old military track territory, built for 4x4s and enduro bikes only.
Why brave it? Well, the climb is surprisingly doable, and the views are simply breathtaking. Plus, you're standing on a piece of history! Imagine Hannibal himself leading his army, elephants and all, through this very pass into Italy back in 218 BC. Plus, it's on the way to Le Fort de la Redoute, an old mountain fort with some stunning history of its own. Heads up, the fort is sadly closed due to collapse danger.
Keep in mind, winter is a no-go. This road, set high in the Cottian Alps, becomes totally buried in snow.
Ready for a challenge? Starting from the D1090 road, it’s a 2.5km climb to the top. But hold on tight, because you’re gaining 324m of elevation along the way! The average gradient is a leg-burning 12.96%, with some sections hitting a crazy 30%.
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 2.5 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,369 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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