The best gravel rides around Susa

Susa and the Val Susa region are known for their diverse gravel biking terrain. You'll find an extensive network of 'authentic white roads' and former military roads, often promoted as 'Vie Storiche di Montagna'. These routes typically combine both paved and dirt sections, offering a mix of surfaces from dense forests to high Alpine environments, and even 'lunar panoramas' in areas like the Monti della Luna.

Yes, Susa offers many challenging gravel routes. The region is home to legendary climbs like the Colle delle Finestre, which features a significant dirt road ascent. Another highlight is the Strada dell'Assietta, considered the highest vehicular dirt road in Europe, consistently staying above 2,000 meters in elevation. Routes like the Assietta gravel ring from Susa - Salbertrand variant involve nearly 2,500 meters of elevation gain over 74 kilometers.

The Susa Valley is rich in history. You can explore Roman heritage sites within Susa itself, such as the Arena Romana and the Arch of Augustus. The Arch of Augustus in Susa – Susa loop from Susa is a great way to experience this. Many routes also pass by ancient fortifications, remnants of the military roads now used by gravel bikers. The symbolic Sacra di San Michele monastery is also accessible via the Colle Braida ascent.

Yes, the Susa region features several beautiful waterfalls. You might encounter the Gravio Waterfall, Novalesa Waterfall, or the Villaretto Waterfall. Some routes even offer unique features like a Stone Bridge and Waterfall View or a Rope-Assisted Waterfall Crossing.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.48 stars from 29 ratings. Reviewers often praise the combination of breathtaking landscapes, challenging climbs on historic military roads, and the rich cultural heritage found along the routes. The diverse terrain, from dense forests to high Alpine environments, also receives frequent positive mentions.

Yes, there are several excellent loop routes available. For a challenging ride, consider the Strada dell'Assietta – Colle dell'Assietta loop from Susa, which covers 64 kilometers with over 2,500 meters of elevation gain. Another option is the Arch of Augustus in Susa – Susa loop from Susa, a 38-kilometer route that explores the local historical sites.

The Val Susa region offers varied conditions depending on the season. While specific route conditions can change, the warmer months from late spring through early autumn generally provide the most favorable weather for exploring the higher altitude military roads and passes like the Assietta Road. Some routes may require a high level of training and even bike-pushing in certain parts, especially in less favorable conditions.

Many gravel routes in the Susa Valley sit at the foothills of the Orsiera-Rocciavrè Natural Park, providing a stunning backdrop of peaks and natural beauty. While specific routes might not entirely be within the park boundaries, they often offer panoramic views and access to the diverse mountain environments characteristic of the area, including dense forests and high Alpine sections.

The Susa Valley is famous for its high-altitude gravel roads. The Strada dell'Assietta is particularly renowned, considered the highest vehicular dirt road in Europe. It's a 32-kilometer stretch that consistently stays above 2,000 meters in elevation, connecting high-altitude fortifications and offering breathtaking views across the Susa and Chisone valleys.

There are 10 gravel bike trails available around Susa in this guide. These routes range from moderate to difficult, with 8 of them being classified as difficult, offering a variety of challenges for gravel cyclists.

Yes, the Susa Valley is dotted with historical fortifications. Routes often incorporate or pass near sites like the Borello Castle or the impressive Fort of Exilles. Many of the 'Vie Storiche di Montagna' (Historic Mountain Roads) were originally military roads, so you'll frequently encounter remnants of this history along your ride.