Driving the high military road to Col de la Roubine in the Mercantour
Col de la Roubine is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2,304m (7,559ft) above sea level, located in the Alpes-Maritimes department of southeastern France. This pass is a key point along the rugged ridge that separates the Tinée Valley from the Italian border, offering one of the most immersive 4x4 experiences in the Mercantour National Park.
The track to the summit is a classic example of the high-altitude military infrastructure built during the 1930s. As part of the defensive network of the Southern Alps, the road served as a strategic link between various outposts. Today, the surface remains gravelly and rocky, winding through a stark, lunar-like landscape of grey shale and jagged peaks. The silence of the high mountains is only broken by the whistling wind, which remains a constant presence at this elevation throughout the year.
| Road facts: Col de la Roubine | |
|---|---|
| Location | Isola 2000, Mercantour (France) |
| Elevation | 2,304 m (7,559 ft) |
| Surface | Rocky and Loose Gravel |
| Max Gradient | Approx. 20% |
| Hazard Level | High (Isolated and Steep) |
What is the climb to Col de la Roubine like?
The ascent begins from the upper levels of the Isola 2000 ski resort. The road is essentially a ski-station service track that doubles as a technical off-road challenge. High-clearance 4x4 vehicles are a strict requirement, as the trail is notoriously bumpy and "tippy" in several of the tighter hairpins. While slightly lower than its neighbors, the Roubine features a relentless gradient of around 20% on its steepest ramps. The loose stone surface makes traction difficult, especially during the descent where careful engine braking is mandatory.
When is the best time to visit?
Like most passes in the Mercantour, Col de la Roubine is impassable from October to June due to heavy snow accumulation. The most reliable window is between late July and September. It is a high-risk area during storms; the rocky surface becomes extremely slippery when wet, and the exposure to high winds makes it a dangerous place to be caught in adverse weather. Always verify the status of the military tracks with the Isola resort staff before attempting the full circuit to Col Mercière or Col de la Vallette.
Pic: Francis JÖNSSON