Assietta gravel ring from Sestriere

The itinerary I propose for gravel bikes is almost entirely on a dirt road. This "high mountain gravel" requires excellent familiarity with the vehicle because you will often find loose and irregular gravel.

I recommend this Tour to those who have adequate physical and technical preparation on high mountain off-road routes; Furthermore, it is important to have enough repair kits, food and water because the areas affected are poorly urbanized.

The departure is from Sestriere, a historic mountain town located at 2,000 meters above sea level. Once you have left the city center, follow the trail towards Col Basset, along the ridge that separates the Susa and Chisone valleys. Without realizing it you are already cycling at high altitude, along the famous Assietta military road, the landscape that surrounds you is typical of the Alps and with a bit of luck you will be able to spot some marmots in the distance, a typical rodent of the area.

The route along the Assietta road is also called "the ride of the two thousand" precisely to indicate that it runs almost entirely at altitudes between 2,000 and 2,600 meters above sea level.

Near the Alpe plain, the descent becomes steeper up to Usseaux, a small and charming Alpine village that has almost entirely been renovated: here you can refuel and rest a bit before continuing the climb towards Sestriere.

Returning to Sestriere, follow the dirt path along the banks of the Chisone stream. Expect some more tears and technical passages! You'll see, this last part will also give you its fair share of adventure!