Best mountain peaks around Venaus are found in the Val Cenischia in Piedmont, Italy, serving as a base for exploring the Cottian and Graian Alps. The region features a diverse range of hiking experiences, from challenging alpine ascents to scenic walks. Each route provides unique features and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Venaus offers access to various mountain destinations, combining natural beauty with historical elements.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more peaks around Venaus.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
After the Sacra di S. Michele, the abbey of Novalesa is the most important ancient center of Christianity in the Susa Valley. Dedicated to Saints Peter and Andrew, it dates back to the year 726 and was founded as a monastery of monks who followed a "mixed rule", partly Benedictines, partly followers of the doctrine of St. Columbanus. The abbey then passed to the Benedictine monks who held it until 1646, when the Cistercian monks took over, remaining here until 1798. Subsequently, it was controlled by French monks, during the Napoleonic era, until, returning to the hands of the Piedmontese government, it was transformed into a hotel. Only in 1972, therefore in recent times, did the abbey return once again under the control of the Benedictine monks, who still guard it today. It is located in a splendid position, elevated with respect to the nearby Novalesa, amidst meadows in front of the Rocciamelone, another center of spirituality, as on its summit is built the small sanctuary of the Madonna del Rocciamelone. To visit the abbey, it is advisable to book at the following e-mail address: by writing to visite@abbazianovalesa.org.
0
0
Cima Ciantiplagna (2,849 m) is the highest peak on the ridge between Colle delle Finestre and Sestriere. It is easily reached via the wide former military road. A large metal cross marks the highest point. From the summit, you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama.
1
0
in case of snow be careful not to lose the path
0
0
The Abbey of Saints Peter and Andrew, also known as the Abbey of (or of) Novalesa, is an ancient Benedictine abbey founded in the 8th century and located in the municipality of Novalesa, in the Susa Valley. Since 1972 the abbey complex has been publicly owned, having been purchased in a dilapidated state by the Province of Turin, now the Metropolitan City of Turin, which entrusted it back to the Benedictine monks. The agreement with the Sublacense Benedictine Congregation has made it possible to enhance the historical and artistic importance of the monument and to spread knowledge of the ancient spiritual, cultural and social tradition of the Benedictine abbey.[1] One of the chapels of the complex houses two important cycles of frescoes from the 11th century, one dedicated to the titular Saint Eldrado and the other, among the first known in the West, to Saint Nicholas of Bari.
0
0
It is practically located on top of the remains of the fort of the same name. From here it is possible to see other forts that make up the Assietta defensive line, as well as the usual panorama of the surrounding peaks. It can be reached very easily as the area is served by a series of military roads
0
0
does anyone know if the track from top of Colle dell Finestre to the Cima CIantiplagna is closed? Based on Giovanni's comment and by trying to draw on komoot seems the track may be closed (komoot does not allow you to set a trace there). Anyone in the know?
1
0
I knew that the restoration work on the path in question would begin, does anyone have fresher news than me?
0
0
Venaus offers access to several impressive peaks. Among them, Rocciamelone Summit is renowned as one of the highest pilgrimage sites in the Alps, offering expansive panoramic views. The Mont Cenis area features peaks like Signal du Petit Mont Cenis, known for its natural beauty and historical significance. Monte Giusalet is another substantial mountain, recognized for its rocky southern face and the Bard Glacier.
Yes, the region is rich in history. Rocciamelone Summit hosts the highest chapel in the Alps, a destination for an annual pilgrimage. The Mont Cenis area is dotted with ancient French and Italian military forts, such as Fort Variselle and Fort de Ronce, reflecting its strategic past. Additionally, Fort Gran Serin is a former military fortress from the 19th century, where you can still see the remains of its extensive layout.
The mountain peaks around Venaus offer breathtaking panoramic views. From Rocciamelone Summit, on clear days, you can see majestic peaks like Mont Blanc, Gran Paradiso, and Cervino. Peaks like Four Teeth Peak and Ciantiplagna Peak also provide spectacular vistas of the surrounding alpine landscape.
Absolutely. The ascent to Rocciamelone Summit, particularly its final section, is rated for 'Experienced Hikers' (EE) due to steep terrain and fixed ropes. Monte Giusalet also presents a significant challenge, often requiring crampons and an ice axe depending on the season, especially when crossing the Bard Glacier or snowy gullies.
While many peaks offer challenging ascents, the Mont Cenis plateau provides a range of hiking opportunities, including leisurely family walks. The area around Lac du Mont-Cenis is generally more accessible for those seeking less strenuous options, allowing enjoyment of the natural beauty without extreme difficulty.
Beyond summiting peaks, the Venaus area is excellent for various outdoor pursuits. You can explore numerous Mountain Hikes around Venaus. The Mont Cenis plateau is also an adventure playground for mountain biking and gravel cycling on its former military trails. For road cyclists, there are many Road Cycling Routes around Venaus, including challenging loops over alpine passes.
The best time to visit for hiking and mountaineering is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (June to September), when trails are generally clear of snow and weather conditions are more stable. However, for peaks like Monte Giusalet, depending on the season, you might still encounter snow and require specialized equipment like crampons and an ice axe.
Yes, the region boasts several unique natural features. The Mont Cenis area is home to the vast, turquoise Lac du Mont-Cenis, a dammed lake surrounded by mountain pastures. Monte Giusalet features the Bard Glacier on its northern side. The geology of Rocciamelone is characterized by calcareous rocks like dolomite and limestone, with outcrops of greenstone and gneisses at lower elevations.
For Rocciamelone, a popular starting point is La Riposa, which has a parking area. The road to Parcheggio La Riposa, accessible from the Susa est exit on the A32 Torino-Bardonecchia highway, can be narrow. For Monte Giusalet, starting points include Mulatera or Bar Cenisio, both accessible from Venaus. Always check local conditions and road access, especially during off-peak seasons.
Visitors frequently appreciate the diverse range of hiking experiences, from challenging alpine ascents to scenic walks, each offering unique features and breathtaking views. The combination of natural beauty with rich historical and cultural elements, such as the highest chapel on Rocciamelone Summit and the ancient forts in the Mont Cenis area, is also highly valued.
Yes, there are options available. For Rocciamelone, Rifugio Ca d'Asti can serve as an overnight stop during the ascent. For Monte Giusalet, Rifugio Avanzà is a key starting point. The Mont Cenis area also has alpine farms where you can taste local produce like Beaufort and Tomme cheeses. Venaus itself, as a base, offers various amenities.
Yes, Rocciamelone's geology is notable, characterized by steep slopes shaped by Quaternary glaciers. It is primarily composed of calcareous rocks like dolomite and limestone, with outcrops of greenstone and gneisses at lower elevations. This geological diversity contributes to the unique landscape of the peak.


See even more amazing summits around Venaus with these guides: