Top 15 Mountain Passes around Novalesa
Best mountain passes around Novalesa are situated in the Susa Valley, an area known for its alpine landscape and historical routes. This region features passes that connect Italy with France, offering diverse terrain from high-altitude routes to natural parks. The passes are characterized by their historical significance, including ancient trade routes and military fortifications. The surrounding environment provides opportunities to explore varied ecosystems and geological formations.
Best mountain passes around Novalesa
- The most popular mountain pass is Clapier Pass, a historic Alpine pass that connects Italy and France. It is known for its elevation of 2,491 meters and its historical significance as a possible route for Hannibal's crossing of the Alps.
- Another must-see spot is Colle della Croce di Ferro, an intermediate mountain pass and historical site. This pass connects the Susa Valley with the Viù Valley and features a mule track used for military purposes during World War II.
- Visitors also love Mont Cenis Pass, a historical site and cycle way at an altitude of 2,085 meters. This pass is notable for Napoleon's road, an artificial lake, and several military forts.
- Novalesa is known for historical, intermediate, and challenging mountain passes. The region offers a variety of mountain passes to see and explore, catering to different activity levels and interests.
- The mountain passes around Novalesa are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 170 upvotes and 79 photos contributed by users.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
Mont Cenis Pass
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Near Mont Cenis there is a pyramid that houses a museum, where it is possible to appreciate the history of this famous Alpine pass.
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Colle delle Finestre — ascent from Susa
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Ascent to Col du Mont Cenis from Susa
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Clapier Pass
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Colle della Croce di Ferro
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Tips from the Community
Always a wonderful climb in all seasons... :)
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A wonderful climb, take it at the right pace (everyone has their own) because it's long and worth enjoying!
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Here is the route for the ascent of the Col du Mont-Cenis starting from Susa, the variant via Giaglione, the classic and official version. An alternative route is possible via Venaus.
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One of the most beautiful hills I've ever tackled: long, challenging, majestic with the mist rising from the lake making everything more evocative... unmissable.
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Colle Croce di Ferro is an Alpine pass in the Graian Alps that connects the Susa Valley with the Viù Valley. Administratively, it marks the border between the municipalities of Bussoleno and Usseglio.
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The climb gets better as you pedal. Yesterday, the wind was freezing and blowing against you...
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The climb to the Colle del Moncenisio from Susa is a historic climb. The spectacular hairpin bends offer magnificent views of the Val di Susa as you gain altitude. The climb is regular but decidedly challenging in length and altitude. After crossing the French border just before the pass, you will reach the plateau dominated by the incredible blue of the Lac du Mont Cenis.
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Colle Clapier, located in the Cottian Alps, is a historic Alpine pass that connects Italy and France. At 2,491 meters above sea level, it offers breathtaking views and a route full of history, considered by some scholars to be one of the possible passages crossed by Hannibal during his famous crossing of the Alps.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some historically significant mountain passes near Novalesa?
The region around Novalesa is rich in history. The Mont Cenis Pass (Mont Cenis Pass) is particularly notable, featuring Napoleon's road built between 1803 and 1810, and having served as a crucial route along the Via Francigena. The Clapier Pass (Clapier Pass) is also historically significant, considered by some scholars as a possible route for Hannibal's crossing of the Alps. Additionally, Colle del Lys holds importance as a "place of memory" for the Resistance during World War II.
Which mountain passes offer the best views around Novalesa?
Many passes in the area provide stunning panoramas. The Mont Cenis Pass (Mont Cenis Pass) is highly recommended for its breathtaking views, especially of the vibrant blue artificial lake set against the alpine backdrop. The ascent to Colle delle Finestre (Colle delle Finestre — ascent from Susa) also offers magnificent views, particularly during the final gravel section.
Are there any mountain passes known for unique natural features?
Yes, the Mont Cenis Pass (Mont Cenis Pass) is famous for its large, cobalt-blue artificial lake, created for hydroelectric purposes, which significantly enhances the landscape. Colle del Lys is a Natural Park spanning 360 hectares, preserving a diverse ecosystem with coniferous forests, stony areas, and beautiful spring blossoms of gentians, lilies, and orchids.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around the mountain passes near Novalesa?
The mountain passes around Novalesa offer a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the "Rifugio Ca' d'Asti – Rocciamelone loop" or the "Via Alpina Blue Trail: Stage D33" (Hiking around Novalesa). For cycling, challenging routes like the "Assietta gravel ring from Susa" or the "View of Lake Mont Cenis – Col de Sollières loop" are popular (Gravel biking around Novalesa). During winter, Colle del Lys transforms into a paradise for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
When is the best time of year to visit the mountain passes around Novalesa?
The best time to visit the mountain passes for hiking and cycling is generally during the summer months when the weather is mild and the passes are clear of snow. For winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, the winter months are ideal, particularly at locations like Colle del Lys.
Are there challenging cycling routes over these passes?
Absolutely. The region is well-known for challenging cycling. The ascent to Colle delle Finestre (Colle delle Finestre — ascent from Susa) from Susa is an epic climb, about 18km long with a consistent slope, including a final 10km gravel section. The ascent to Col du Mont Cenis from Susa (Ascent to Col du Mont Cenis from Susa) is also a historic and challenging climb, offering magnificent views.
Can I find easy walking trails near the mountain passes?
While many passes offer challenging routes, areas like Colle del Lys Natural Park feature an ancient network of paths and mule tracks suitable for various fitness levels, including easier walks. These trails offer panoramic views and are ideal for nature lovers seeking tranquility.
Are there opportunities for winter sports near Novalesa's mountain passes?
Yes, Colle del Lys is an excellent destination for winter sports. It offers a 15-kilometer forest trail perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, transforming into a winter wonderland during the colder months.
Are there any family-friendly options among the mountain passes?
Colle del Lys Natural Park is a good option for families. Its well-maintained trails cater to various fitness levels, making it suitable for family walks. The diverse ecosystem and opportunities for birdwatching can also be engaging for children.
Where can I learn more about the history of the Mont Cenis Pass?
Near the Mont Cenis Pass (Mont Cenis Pass), there is a pyramid housing a museum where visitors can delve into the rich history of this famous Alpine pass. You can also find more information on its historical significance, including Napoleon's road and military forts, through resources like Wikipedia or Visit Val di Susa.
What do komoot users say about the Mont Cenis Pass?
Komoot users describe the Mont Cenis Pass (Mont Cenis Pass) as one of the most beautiful hills they've tackled, majestic with mist rising from the lake, making it very evocative. They highlight the spectacular hairpin bends offering magnificent views of the Val di Susa and the incredible blue of the Lac du Mont Cenis after crossing into France. It's praised for being a long, challenging, yet rewarding climb.
What do komoot users say about Colle delle Finestre?
Komoot users consider the ascent to Colle delle Finestre (Colle delle Finestre — ascent from Susa) an "epic climb" that has left its mark in cycling history. They particularly enjoy the final 10km gravel section, describing it as "amazing" and the "best long unpaved Italian climb," urging others to "enjoy the views" in the last 3 km.
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