Driving the historic military road to Colle Ciarbonet in the Piedmont Alps
Colle Ciarbonet is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2,290m (7,513ft) above sea level, located in the Province of Cuneo, in the Italian region of Piedmont. This ancient military track offers a technical and scenic driving experience through the rugged Unerzio Valley.
| Road facts: Colle Ciarbonet | |
|---|---|
| Location | Province of Cuneo, Italy |
| Starting Point | Chialvetta |
| Length | 6.8 km (4.2 miles) |
| Elevation Gain | 646 m |
| Average Gradient | 9.5% |
| Surface | Unpaved (Gravel & Dirt) |
Where is the road to Colle Ciarbonet located?
The pass is located in the southern part of the Piedmont region, near the border with France. It connects the Maira and Stura valleys, running through the heart of the Unerzio Valley, a destination famous for its preserved Alpine architecture and wild landscapes.
Is the road to Colle Ciarbonet paved?
No, the road to the summit is entirely unpaved. It is an old gravel military route that can be bumpy and rocky in several sections. As seen in the local area, the track is narrow and winds its way up the mountain, often following the natural contour of the slopes.
How long is the drive to Colle Ciarbonet?
Starting from the small village of Chialvetta, the road is 6.8 km long. It is a concentrated climb that requires careful driving due to the hairpin turns and the sometimes washed-out surface of the track.
What is the elevation gain on the road to Colle Ciarbonet?
The ascent from Chialvetta involves an elevation gain of 646 meters. This results in a fairly steep average gradient of about 9.5%, with some specific sections reaching a maximum gradient of 12.7% near the summit.
Is a 4x4 vehicle required for Colle Ciarbonet?
Yes, a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended. The track is steep, narrow, and full of hairpins. In some parts, the road is partly washed away by mountain weather, making it a challenge for vehicles with low ground clearance.
When is the road to Colle Ciarbonet open?
The road is usually impassable from September to June due to heavy snow. Sitting at nearly 2,300 meters, the pass remains covered for a large part of the year. The best time for driving this route is during the peak summer months when the gravel is dry.
What are the views like from Colle Ciarbonet?
The drive offers spectacular Alpine views, particularly of the surrounding limestone peaks and the lush green valleys of Cuneo. The summit provides a sense of isolation and peace, far from the busier paved passes of the Italian Alps.