Driving the steep military track to Col de la Vallette in the Mercantour
Col de la Vallette is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2,349m (7,706ft) above sea level, located in the Alpes-Maritimes department of southeastern France. Perched within the Mercantour National Park, this pass is part of a complex network of former military roads overlooking the Italian border.
The road to the summit is a classic Alpine military track: gravel, rocky, and significantly "tippy" in several sections. These routes were originally constructed to service the Maginot Line fortifications during WWII, and today, visitors can still explore the crumbling military constructions that stand as silent sentinels at the summit. The landscape is alpine and rugged, offering panoramic views of the Tinée Valley and the high peaks of the Southern Alps.
| Road facts: Col de la Vallette | |
|---|---|
| Location | Isola 2000, Mercantour (France) |
| Elevation | 2,349 m (7,706 ft) |
| Max Gradient | Up to 30% (on access ramps) |
| Access | Via Isola 2000 Ski Station |
| Hazard Level | High (Very steep & loose stones) |
How to reach Col de la Vallette by 4x4?
The ascent to Col de la Vallette typically begins from the Isola 2000 ski resort. The track follows the service roads used by the ski station, which are notorious for their extreme steepness. Driving here requires a low-range 4x4 vehicle, as the slope consists of loose stones and shale that make traction difficult. Some sections of the climb, especially those shared with the track to Tête de Pévelos (2,451m), hit brutal gradients of up to 30%. This is not a road for the faint of heart or those scared of heights; the drops are significant and the track is often bumpy and narrow.
When is the best time to drive this Alpine pass?
Due to its high altitude and the northern exposure of some slopes, the road is usually impassable from October to June. Snow can linger on the track well into the summer, and a very narrow window—often starting at the end of August—is the best time to ensure a clear path to the summit. High winds are a constant factor in the Mercantour peaks all year long, and even in mid-summer, temperatures can drop rapidly if a storm rolls in. Always check the local weather forecast from the Isola station before attempting the climb, as the track can become dangerous and slippery during heavy Alpine rains.
A network of high mountain cols
Col de la Vallette is strategically connected to other nearby passes, such as Col Mercière (2,346m) and Col de la Roubine (2,304m). This entire ridge was a hotbed of military activity during the 1930s and 40s. While Col de la Vallette is slightly higher, all these passes share the same rugged DNA: rocky trails, historical ruins, and 360-degree views. For off-road enthusiasts, linking these passes in a single expedition provides one of the most technical and historically rich 4x4 experiences in the Alpes-Maritimes.
Pic: Francis JÖNSSON