Strada dell’Assietta Western Circuit

The Strada dell’Assietta traces a 35-kilometer ridgeline between the Susa and Chisone valleys, following the exact route where French and Italian alpine troops faced off during World War I. This military road was built in 1928 to supply border fortifications and still passes through abandoned bunkers, artillery positions, and mountain refuges at elevations exceeding 2,500 meters. The technical challenge lies in exposed sections where the narrow gravel track hugs steep mountainsides with no guardrails, while weather can change from sunshine to snow squalls within minutes above treeline.

Rated Difficult for high altitude exposure and technical sections requiring steady nerves on narrow mountain shelves. High-clearance 4WD essential for rocky sections and loose gravel. Accessible only July-September due to snow, with afternoon thunderstorms common. No fuel available on route – fill up in Susa or Sestriere. Camping restricted in some military zones but excellent bivouac sites exist at Col Basset. Delivers stunning views of Mont Blanc massif and insight into mountain warfare history few tourists ever experience.