Colle dell’Assietta — Ridge-Crest Pullout Bivouac

Colle dell’Assietta is the crown of the Strada dell’Assietta, a 1700s military road that runs the ridge between the Val Chisone and the Val di Susa. It’s wide-open alpine grass, stone markers from the 1747 battle, and no trees to hide behind. Gravel pullouts near the pass and the Rifugio Assietta give overnighters a flat-enough spot. Expect cold, wind, and a sunset worth the climb. By day you share the road with motorbikes, cyclists, and Sunday drivers. After dark it empties out.

Know the rules before you park. Italian and Piedmont wild camping law is strict and enforcement varies. Staying overnight in a vehicle at a pullout is often tolerated for a single night, but pitching a tent or setting up camp is a different matter. The road sits inside protected-area jurisdiction, so check current rules, seasonal and weekend vehicle restrictions, and any access fees with Parchi Alpi Cozie or the Città Metropolitana di Torino before you go. Leave no trace, no fires, and pack out everything. Snow keeps the road shut until around June, and weather turns fast up here. Have a dirty day.

Ridge-top bivouac on a 1700s military road.