The best cycling routes in Champlas - Colle Sestriere

Returning from Susa-Susa (direction Monginevro-Cesana) on 07/26/2004, we found ourselves, as we knew, in front of the tunnel forbidden to bicycles and with the entrance to the old road that crosses the avalanche protection tunnels closed by a municipal ordinance. Passage prohibited for pedestrians and cyclists for safety reasons. Given the late hour, the many km already covered, and the open barrier, probably forced by some other cyclist who found themselves in a similar situation, we passed anyway. Unfortunately, however, the situation is this, meaning you shouldn't pass by bike. As of today, I recommend that those arriving from Briancon take the detour to the Colle della Scala (direction Nevache) and descend to Bardonecchia.

A beautiful stretch that allows you to reach the Argentera Valley more easily, or with more effort Cima del Bosco

A section of the SP24 road closed to motorized traffic after the opening of the new tunnel just before Cesana, and now reserved for cyclists and hikers. Ideally divided into two sections: the lower section, almost entirely within a man-made avalanche tunnel, features large windows along the valley side that provide sufficient natural light for safe travel; the upper section, almost vertically overlooking the valley below, offers breathtaking views. This is a mandatory route, as the new road tunnel is off-limits to bicycles, but since you have to pass through it, it's worth enjoying it thoroughly.

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.

Freed by the construction of the new tunnel (which is closed to bicycles), the old tunnel is now the undisputed realm of pedestrians and bicycles. The atmosphere inside is lovely, and the views of the valley are stunning when you exit.

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?).