Where is Sant'Anna di Vinadio?
Italy, europe
17 km
2,012 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Sant'Anna di Vinadio, a sanctuary perched way up in the Italian Alps (Cuneo province, to be exact). We're talking seriously high altitude – like, 2,000 meters (6,600 feet) high! It's tucked away in the Stura Valley, north of everything.
This isn't just any old church, it's the highest Christian worship place in Europe. Pilgrims have been trekking here for ages. You'll find it at the head of the Orgials valley, a sidekick to the main Stura di Demonte Valley. Once you get to Vinadio, it's a straight shot up to Colle della Lombarda. Plus, there's a huge parking lot at the top, and even a guesthouse and hostel nearby in an old military building.
Now, the drive. It's about 17 km from Vinadio (at 900m), and you're gaining 1,100 meters in elevation. The road's paved, but get ready for a mix of twists, turns, climbs, and flat sections. Just when you think you're there, BAM! The last three hairpin turns hit you with slopes up to 20%. Oh, and did I mention it's narrow?
Heads up though, this place is only accessible during the summer months. It's way up there in the Maritime Alps, so snow's a real issue. Also, the road is paved and can handle vehicles up to 10 meters long. The views? Totally worth it!
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 17 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,012 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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