Colle delle Finestre Climb from Susa

This climb is considered one of the toughest in the Italian Alps, rated as 'difficult'. It features a relentless average gradient of 9.1% to 9.9%, with sections reaching 12-14%. The route starts with approximately 10.5-11 kilometers of narrow, paved road winding through a dense forest with many hairpin turns. The final 8 kilometers transition to a challenging unpaved gravel or dirt surface, which can vary from compact small pebbles to looser sand with larger stones and potholes.

While demanding, the gravel section is generally manageable for road bikes. It's highly recommended to use 25mm or 28mm tires for better grip and comfort on the unpaved upper half of the climb.

The route offers stunning scenery throughout. You'll pass through a magnificent, shaded forest in the lower sections. As you climb higher, the landscape opens up to provide expansive views of the valley and the surrounding Cottian Alps. Key points include the Last Water Fountain and Start of the Colle delle Finestre Gravel Road, and of course, the summit of Colle delle Finestre itself, known for its iconic status in the Giro d'Italia.

The estimated duration for this 39.5 km racebike route, which includes an elevation gain of approximately 1880 meters, is around 3 hours and 39 minutes. However, actual time can vary significantly based on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

No, this route is not suitable for beginners. It is classified as 'difficult' due to its sustained steep gradients and the challenging unpaved gravel section. It requires a high level of fitness and good bike handling skills.

The best time to cycle this route is typically from late spring to early autumn (June to September) when the pass is clear of snow and weather conditions are generally more favorable. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially for mountain passes.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Colle delle Finestre route itself. The pass is located within the Parco Orsiera Rocciavrè, which is a natural park, but general access for cycling on the public road does not typically require a fee.

Susa offers various public parking options within the town. It's advisable to find parking near the start of the climb to ensure easy access to the route. Specific parking details can often be found on local Susa tourism websites or by checking for public parking signs upon arrival.

While the route is a public road, it is primarily a challenging cycling climb. Bringing a dog along for this specific racebike route is not generally recommended due to the strenuous nature, traffic, and the unpaved sections. If you plan to visit the area with a dog, consider other, more suitable trails within the Susa Valley or Parco Orsiera Rocciavrè that are designed for hiking with pets.

Yes, sections of this route overlap with several official trails. You'll find it intersects with parts of the Via Verde Valsusa, SICAI Ciclo, Ciclostrada Segreta Del Diacono Martino, Via Francigena - Monginevro variant, Sentiero dei Franchi, Aida, GTA: Il Truc - Susa, Via Pacifica, and various segments of the Sentiero della Cumba.

There is a notable water fountain, the Last Water Fountain and Start of the Colle delle Finestre Gravel Road, which is a crucial stop before the unpaved section. It's always wise to carry sufficient water for the entire climb, as other reliable water sources may be scarce, especially on the upper parts of the pass.