The west alps of italy
Why the west alps are such a great destination
The Western Alps of Italy are an offroad rider’s dream—and for those in Switzerland, they’re just a short six-hour highway ride away. This region is home to legendary trails like Colle del Sommeiller, the highest drivable mountain pass in Europe, and still offers legal offroad riding, a rarity in many parts of the Alps. Along the way, you’ll encounter a lively mix of offroad enthusiasts and crazy vehicles, from rugged 4x4s to fully loaded adventure bikes, adding to the excitement. And after a day of riding, nothing beats the cheap and delicious meals served in cozy Italian restaurants, where every bite feels like a reward for the day’s adventure.
A short Tourguide for a 3 day adventure to the italian alps
DAY 1
My day began at 6 a.m. with a strong cup of coffee, excitement buzzing in the air as I geared up and hit the road on a Ducati Desert X Rally. The highway route from Switzerland took me past Geneva and along the smooth French motorways, a scenic journey with rolling hills and mountain glimpses teasing the adventure ahead. By mid-morning, I reached the Fréjus Tunnel, a gateway to Italy that seamlessly transitioned me from highway cruising to Alpine exploration.
At 10:30 a.m., I rolled into Bardonecchia and headed straight to the base of Monte Jafferau, where I met up with my mates for the first offroad challenge. The climb up the ski pistes was steep and rugged, testing both skill and determination (fair warning: it’s not for the faint-hearted!). Unfortunately, the heavy snow near the summit forced us to turn back before reaching the top, but the thrill of the ascent made it all worth it.
Returning to Bardonecchia, we regrouped and took the charming small-town roads toward the entry of Colle del Sommeiller, one of Europe’s highest drivable passes. Although we couldn’t quite make it to the summit there either—no shame, as it’s a one-way trail—we soaked in the incredible views and savored every moment of the ride. By the time we checked into our Airbnb for the night, exhaustion had set in, but so had that unbeatable feeling of satisfaction from a day packed with adventure.
Day 1 set the tone: challenging, exhilarating, and full of stories to share. The Western Alps had already delivered, and we still had more trails to conquer.
DAY 2 - A FLAT A DAY KEEPS THE GYM AWAY
The second day began with excitement as we set off from Sauze d’Oulx, following the TET route deeper into the rugged beauty of the Western Alps. Our morning was spent climbing through the ski resorts around the area, with breathtaking mountain views and challenging trails keeping our spirits high.
The adventure took a turn when I hit a snag—literally—in Perreiro, where we planned to stop for lunch by a picturesque lake. My Ducati Desert X Rally suffered a flat tire, putting our progress on pause. Fortunately, we had a spare tube and the tools to get the job done. With a bit of teamwork and grit, we replaced the back tire and got back on track. As every rider knows, these hiccups are part of the journey, and they only make the ride more memorable.
With the bike patched up, we continued south, making our way through Angrogna on some stunning trails. The TET here didn’t disappoint, offering a mix of forested paths, technical sections, and incredible scenery that made the effort worthwhile. As the day wound down, we rolled into Bagnolo Piemonte, where we found a cozy spot to rest for the night.
Day 2 was all about resilience, camaraderie, and embracing the unexpected—just the kind of adventure you’d hope for in the Alps.
DAY 3 - SOUTHBOUND ALONG THE TET
Our third and final day of offroad riding was packed with stunning sights and unforgettable moments. We kicked off the day from Saluzzo, staying the night at Cascina Libra, a charming spot that set the tone for a memorable finale. From there, we rode toward Sanfront, where the open pastures stretched endlessly, offering smooth, flowing trails perfect for soaking in the breathtaking alpine scenery.
The journey continued through Elva, where we found more offroad trails that tested our skills and rewarded us with incredible views. A stop in Stroppo revealed a hidden gem—an old, abandoned church that stood in quiet defiance of time. It was a moment of serene reflection amidst the adrenaline of the ride.
The highlight of the day—and perhaps the trip—came in Canosio. Surrounded by rugged, towering mountains, we navigated gravel roads that felt like they were carved straight out of a dream. The combination of raw, untamed beauty and the thrill of the ride made this section unforgettable.
As the day came to a close, we arrived in Borgo San Dalmazzo, where our final Airbnb provided the perfect place to rest and reflect. Tired but deeply content, we shared stories and laughs, grateful for the memories we’d made over the past three days. The Western Alps had given us adventure, camaraderie, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of the ride.
Tipps for your adventure to be successful
🎒 Luggage
Keep it Light: Challenging trails can become slippery when wet, so avoid overloading your bike. Lightweight, waterproof luggage like Enduristan bags is ideal for keeping your gear secure without affecting your balance.
Bring the Essentials: Pack spare tubes, tire repair tools, and basic maintenance gear. These can save the day if you face issues like a flat tire mid-ride.
🧥 Clothing
Layer Up! The weather changes quickly, especially at higher altitudes where snow may still be present even in summer. Wear moisture-wicking base layers, an insulated mid-layer, and a waterproof outer shell.
Cold-Weather Essentials: Pack warm gloves, a neck warmer, and a windproof riding jacket. Don’t forget thermal socks—cold feet can ruin a great ride.
Be Prepared for Wet Trails: Waterproof pants and boots are a must, especially if you encounter snowmelt or rain.
📅 Travel Timing
Know the Seasons: Passes like Colle del Sommeiller and Monte Jafferau have specific opening times, often limited to summer months (July-September). Check the dates in advance.
Respect the Rules: Riding when trails are closed can result in fines, and local police are known to patrol the mountain tops to enforce these regulations.
🛏️ Accommodation
Plan Ahead: In summer, the region gets busy with travelers, so booking your Airbnbs in advance ensures you have a comfortable place to rest after a long day of riding.
Route Planning: Lay out your route ahead of time to decide where you’ll stop for the night. This makes your journey smoother and avoids unnecessary stress.
🛠️ Additional Must-Haves
A reliable GPS or GPX files for your route.
Snacks and water to stay fueled on long trails.
A camera to capture the incredible scenery you’ll encounter.
