The best cycling routes in Pendici Del Monte Chaberton

In the diary of his pilgrimage on the Way of St. James, which was published later, the German entertainer Hape (Hans-Peter) Kerkeling also writes about the meditative experience of praying the Rosary together, which he experienced himself in the “grandiose village church, which has the makings of a cathedral” of Castildelgado (Castile). Under the date June 21, 2001, he notes: “I simply must see the only tourist attraction in town! (…) She is all the more pleased that I want to see the jewel of Castildelgado and accompanies me inside. Our tour quickly ends in front of the altar, and so the woman asks me to take a seat in one of the wonderfully cool pews. Gradually, other people enter the church. The older lady begins to pray the rosary. The monotonous chanting has a calming effect, and the constantly repeating lament gives strength, security, and peace! So, after I can recite the words along with her, I join in the mantra…” (Hape Kerkeling in “I’m Off Then: My Journey on the Camino de Santiago”)

Church dedicated to the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is located in the center of Claviere, slightly off the provincial road. In front is a pedestrian plaza with several benches; to the side is a park with a beautiful fountain (drinking water). All around are bars and restaurants. In the background, the stunning mountains of the Susa Valley. The portal is remarkable, with a beautiful fresco depicting the Nativity.

It is located at the top of the Chiesa hamlet, just inside the town. The roads leading to it are mostly pedestrianized, but accessible by bicycle. The church has a rather intricate façade, with a beautiful portal; the rectory, which overlooks the churchyard at a 90° angle to the church, is also very beautiful. Next to the church is a fountain nestled among the trees. The stone bell tower is also noteworthy. In front, a stunning view of the Susa Valley awaits. To reach the churchyard, you have to do a bit of portage, but it's worth it.

Whether Europe is united or not, crossing a border always has a special feeling.

Alpine watershed between the Dora and Durance valleys, and a historic crossing point between Italy and France.

Leaving Cesana toward Sauze, there's a dedicated bike path (strictly speaking, a pedestrian and cycle path) on the right, which runs alongside the stream for about a kilometer before rejoining the provincial road. The route actually continues as a regular path, then descends onto the bridle of the stream a little further upstream. However, it's not advisable to continue on the path, as it's separated from the road by a guard rail, and once you get off the bridle, it's impossible to get back onto the road. Along the bike path, you can pedal calmly, looking around without fear of getting hit.

A small village on the road from Cesana to Sestriere. The town itself, home to the town hall, is slightly off the main road; it requires a short detour, but it's worth it. The church, typically Alpine, is interesting. Equally interesting are the houses, all renovated and in use. Also noteworthy are the at least four fountains, very beautiful, but with a caveat: at least two have signs stating that the water is not monitored (in English it's more terse: "non-potable water"), so refill your water bottles at your own risk.

The Town Hall (or rather, "Casa del Comune") is a beautiful building overlooking Cesana's main square, just beyond the roundabout between the roads to Sestriere, Sauze di Cesana, and Oulx. Beautiful views, a bar, and a drinking fountain: a nice place to stop before climbing up (or down, why not?).