Colle di Sampeyre
Legendary Climbs
Perched between the Maira and Varaita Valleys, Colle di Sampeyre reaches 2,284 metres above sea level and is one of the most fascinating and scenic inter-valley connection cycling routes in the area. It’s a real challenge for amateur cyclists, who find themselves facing a significant elevation gain in just a few kilometres. It requires considerable exertion and the climb is regular in its gradient but does not include any resting areas: it is no coincidence that it is considered one of the most demanding cycling climbs in the entire western Alpine area. The effort involved is alleviated by the abundant presence of trees, guaranteeing pleasant stretches in the shade on the hottest and sunniest days.
The pass can be climbed from two different sides.
From the Varaita Valley, the maximum gradient is 13% with a total elevation gain of 1,250 m over a 16 km route. The meeting place for participants is in Sampeyre, near the tourist office; the road will be closed to motor vehicle traffic in Sampeyre, upstream of the ski lift car park; from here onwards the road will be reserved for cyclists only.
From the Maira Valley, the maximum gradient is 15% with a total elevation gain of 1,200 m over a 16 km route. The meeting point for participants is at Stroppo in the hamlet of Paschero; the road will be closed to motor vehicle traffic in the hamlet of San Martino (elevation gain 916 m and a 9.40 km route).
