Driving the alpine military track to Col de Saurel
Col de Saurel is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2,392 meters (7,847 ft) above sea level, located on the border between France and Italy.
| Road facts: Col de Saurel | |
|---|---|
| Location | Cottian Alps, France-Italy border |
| Elevation | 2,392 m (7,847 ft) |
| Length | 6.3 km (3.9 miles) from Sagna Longa |
| Average Gradient | 6.36% |
| Surface | Totally unpaved / Loose shale and rock fragments |
Where is Col de Saurel?
The pass is located on the border between the Hautes-Alpes department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of southeastern France and the Metropolitan City of Turin, in northern Italy.
Why is there a road to Col de Saurel?
The road to the summit is a military track that connects the Sagna Longa sector with the Lago di Sette Colori (Lago dei Sette Colori) and the Capanna Mautino refuge lines. It’s part of the old "Clavierissima" mountain circuit.
How long is the road to Col de Saurel?
Starting from Sagna Longa, the road to the summit is 6.3 km long and the average gradient is 6.36%.
Is the road to Col de Saurel unpaved?
The road is totally unpaved and features loose gravel and rocky parts. The surface is heavily eroded by alpine snowmelt, leaving deep ruts and sharp limestone blocks. The blind corners are frequently shared with mountain bikes and local forestry vans. A four-wheel-drive vehicle with high ground clearance is required.
Is the road to Col de Saurel open year-round?
Set high in the Cottian Alps, heavy snow blocks the pass completely throughout the winter months, typically keeping the road closed until mid-June. During the summer season, the dry alpine limestone dust turns into a sticky, slippery mud slurry during sudden afternoon thunderstorms.
Pic: Paolo Balzarotti