The best gravel rides around Exilles

Gravel biking around Exilles primarily features challenging alpine terrain and historic military roads within the Susa Valley. You'll encounter a diverse mix of surfaces, from well-maintained dirt roads to more technical, bumpy mule tracks, often involving significant elevation changes. The region is known for its rugged charm and unpaved paths.

Yes, there are over 25 gravel bike routes around Exilles listed on komoot. These routes are generally considered difficult, offering a rewarding challenge for experienced riders.

The Susa Valley is rich in both history and natural beauty. You can explore the imposing Forte di Exilles, a historic fortress dominating the skyline. Many routes incorporate sections of the famous Strada dell'Assietta, known as Europe's highest vehicular dirt road, offering mesmerizing views. For natural sights, consider routes that pass near the Waterfalls Behind Rifugio Scarfiotti or the Novalesa Waterfall.

The best time for gravel biking in Exilles is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally more stable, and the high-altitude military roads, such as the Strada dell'Assietta, are usually free of snow and accessible. Always check local conditions before heading out, especially for higher passes.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, you can try the Blegier Pass – Strada dell'Assietta loop from Sauze d'Oulx, which incorporates sections of the renowned Strada dell'Assietta, or the challenging Colle dell'Assietta – Blegier Pass loop from Chiomonte, leading through high alpine passes.

The gravel biking routes around Exilles are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 30 reviews. Riders often praise the dramatic alpine scenery, the historical significance of the military roads, and the challenging nature of the climbs and descents.

The gravel routes directly around Exilles are generally classified as difficult due to significant elevation changes and technical sections, making them less suitable for young families or beginners. However, the broader Susa Valley and nearby natural parks like Parco Naturale Gran Bosco di Salbertrand might offer easier paths for family cycling, though these may not be specifically gravel-focused.

While many outdoor areas in Italy are dog-friendly, it's essential to consider the difficulty and terrain of these specific gravel routes. The challenging nature and potential for remote sections mean your dog should be fit and accustomed to long distances and varied surfaces. Always keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected areas like Parco Naturale Orsiera Rocciavrè, to protect wildlife. Carry enough water for both yourself and your pet.

Parking is generally available in the villages that serve as starting points for these routes, such as Sauze d'Oulx or Chiomonte. Look for designated parking areas within these towns. For specific route starting points, it's advisable to check the individual tour descriptions on komoot for parking recommendations.

While the high-alpine military roads can be quite remote, you'll find opportunities for refreshments in the villages at the start and end of routes, such as Sauze d'Oulx, Bardonecchia, or Usseaux. Some routes might pass by mountain huts (rifugi) like Rifugio Scarfiotti or Assietta Refuge, which often offer food and drink during the open season. Always carry sufficient supplies, as services can be sparse on longer, more remote sections.

The gravel rides around Exilles are characterized by significant elevation changes. For instance, the Colle dell'Assietta – Blegier Pass loop from Chiomonte involves over 2300 meters of ascent, while the Col Basset – Col Basset (Sestriere) loop from Sauze d'Oulx features over 2100 meters of climbing. Be prepared for demanding ascents and rewarding descents.

Generally, no specific permits are required for gravel biking on the public roads and trails around Exilles. However, if you plan to cycle through protected natural parks like Parco Naturale Gran Bosco di Salbertrand or Parco Naturale Orsiera Rocciavrè, always adhere to park regulations, which may include staying on marked trails and respecting wildlife. No specific external links are provided for permits, indicating they are not typically required for general use.