The best cycling routes in Oasi Xerotermica Di Puys
4.6
(101)
6,041
riders
93
rides
Touring cycling in Oasi Xerotermica Di Puys traverses a unique landscape in Italy's Susa Valley, characterized by a xerothermic microclimate with dry, steppe, and sub-Mediterranean conditions. This environment supports diverse botanical species, contrasting with extensive Alpine forests of Scots pine, larch, Swiss pine, and spruce at higher altitudes. The terrain features a calcareous substrate, impressive canyons carved by fluvial erosion, and elevations ranging from the Dora Riparia riverbed up to approximately 1,500 meters, including parts of Monte Cotolivier. The region…
Last updated: May 20, 2026
5.0
(3)
59
riders
23.6km
02:11
530m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
32
riders
18.6km
01:42
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(5)
185
riders
64.8km
06:29
2,020m
2,020m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(9)
151
riders
35.9km
03:19
1,050m
1,050m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
56
riders
119km
07:31
1,300m
1,300m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
A must-see for those arriving from the S. Ambrogio cycle path.
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A fortress worth seeing, unfortunately very busy.
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A very beautiful stretch to cycle which leads from the basins to the road to the Scarfiotti refuge and then to the Sommeiller pass.
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Right on the edge of the SP24, a beautiful masonry structure houses two reinforced concrete basins/washhouses, with large delivery pipes. The entire complex is practically abandoned, but very fascinating. Inside, you can still clearly see the delivery pipe system and a control panel—it's likely a tank for collecting drinking water, which was used both directly in the basins and sent to homes. From the materials and style, the structure appears to date back to the interwar period. It's in a truly infamous location, in the basin between the two opposing slopes between Salbertrand and the turnoff for Fenils, after a bend, so you have to be very careful. As you climb up, narrowing down, you can even stop to get a good look and take a few photos; as you descend, it's best to avoid it—unless, due to some extraordinary astral conjunction, the road is clear of traffic.
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Along the stretch of Via Roma that descends from the town onto the SP24 (going down), on one side we find a beautiful covered fountain with drinkable water; on the opposite side, an ancient house (currently [August 2025] undergoing restoration) with a wonderful carved stone portal and a beautiful wooden door.
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This church dominates Savoulx from above, clearly visible from a distance. Unfortunately, it's less visible up close: the entrance is protected by a closed gate. You can still glimpse the structure and the façade by peeking through the bars. It's worth paying attention when passing through Savoulx; getting close just to get a good look might be disappointing, but to each his own.
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The access to Exilles from the mountain via the old road, which branches off from the provincial road about a kilometer upstream, is spectacular. It begins with an inconspicuous little church, followed by a beautiful covered fountain and washhouse (with a separate drinking fountain). The next section of the road follows a sheer drop into the valley below, where you can see watermills originally powered by the water that also supplies the washhouse, which flows in a beautiful waterfall from below the road. Looking up, you can see the Dora Gorge near Exilles and the mountains of the Susa Valley in the background. A beautiful stretch of road, which not only allows you to avoid the traffic and tunnels of the provincial road, but also offers priceless views.
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Two notable buildings overlook the beautiful Piazza Martiri della Libertà. On the long side, the Town Hall (or rather, "Casa del Comune"), a modern Alpine-style building, blends well into the surrounding area. On the short side, facing downhill, is the Church of San Giovanni Battista, with a beautiful portico featuring a huge pointed arch and a Romanesque portal with a frescoed lunette; the bell tower is plastered, not made of exposed stone. From downstream, it can be reached by turning right off the Provincial Road; from upstream, take the central (and interesting) Via Roma. It's worth a visit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Oasi Xerotermica Di Puys?
There are nearly 90 touring cycling routes in Oasi Xerotermica Di Puys, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What makes Oasi Xerotermica Di Puys a unique destination for touring cyclists?
Oasi Xerotermica Di Puys is unique due to its 'xerothermic oasis' – a plateau with dry, steppe-like meadows featuring splendid orchid blooms, contrasting with lush Alpine forests and the Dora di Bardonecchia river. This blend creates a diverse and scenic cycling experience.
What are the difficulty levels of touring cycling routes in Oasi Xerotermica Di Puys?
The routes vary significantly in difficulty. You'll find 9 easy routes, 20 moderate routes, and 60 difficult routes, ensuring options for beginners to experienced touring cyclists.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, the region offers several family-friendly options. The 'cross-country track' connecting Oulx with Beaulard and extending to Royeres is largely flat and scenic, making it ideal for leisurely rides with family.
Are there circular touring cycling routes available?
Many routes in Oasi Xerotermica Di Puys are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Pian del Colle – Re Magi Mountain Hut loop from Royeres, which offers a scenic circular journey.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Oasi Xerotermica Di Puys?
The best season for touring cycling is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when the weather is mild, and the unique flora of the xerothermic oasis is in bloom. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see while cycling?
You'll encounter a striking contrast of landscapes, from the dry, steppe-like meadows of the xerothermic oasis with their unique botanical species, to extensive pine forests along the Dora di Bardonecchia river. As you ascend, these forests transition to larch, Swiss pine, and spruce.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest along the routes?
While cycling, you can explore charming Alpine villages and towns like Oulx and Beaulard. Routes like the Madonna del Cotolivier Chapel – Charming Alpine Villages loop from Beaulard lead through such areas, offering glimpses into the regional culture.
What do other cyclists say about touring cycling in Oasi Xerotermica Di Puys?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Oasi Xerotermica Di Puys, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 130 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from unique dry meadows to refreshing Alpine forests, and the variety of trails available.
Are there any longer, more challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Forte Pramand Junction – Seguret Tunnel loop from Beaulard offer extensive views and significant elevation changes over nearly 65 km.
Can I expect to see wildlife while cycling in Oasi Xerotermica Di Puys?
The diverse ecosystems, including the xerothermic oasis and Alpine forests, provide habitats for various wildlife. While not guaranteed, you might spot local bird species, small mammals, and unique insects, especially in quieter sections of the trails.
Are there viewpoints along the touring cycling routes?
Many routes offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Alpine landscape and the unique xerothermic oasis. For example, the View of Fort of Exilles – View of the Fort of Exilles loop from Beaulard provides scenic vistas, including historical landmarks.
Most popular routes in Oasi Xerotermica Di Puys
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