The best gravel rides around Venaus

There are 10 gravel bike trails around Venaus, offering a variety of experiences in the Susa Valley. Most of these routes are considered difficult, with one moderate option available.

The best time for gravel biking in Venaus is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. High-alpine routes like the Strada dell'Assietta are usually accessible from July to September, when snow has melted and weather conditions are more stable. Some sections of the Strada dell'Assietta are even closed to motorized traffic on Wednesdays and Saturdays in July and August, making it ideal for cyclists.

Yes, Venaus offers several excellent circular gravel bike routes. A popular choice is the Assietta gravel ring from Susa - Salbertrand variant, which is a challenging 74.1 km loop. Another option is the Colle dell'Assietta – Blegier Pass loop from Chiomonte, covering nearly 60 km with significant elevation changes.

Gravel bike trails near Venaus are characterized by diverse Alpine terrain. You'll encounter unpaved old military roads, significant elevation changes, and surfaces ranging from smooth gravel to rougher sections. The region is part of the Graian and Cottian Alps, providing a mix of challenging climbs and scenic descents through rugged mountains, deep valleys, and dense forests.

While most routes around Venaus are rated difficult, there is a moderate option available: the Refuge du Petit Mont Cenis – View of Lake Mont Cenis loop from Barrage du Mont Cenis. This 19.3 km route offers a less strenuous experience with beautiful views, making it more accessible for those seeking a moderate challenge or a family-friendly ride.

The Venaus area is rich in historical and natural attractions. Many routes utilize the historic Strada dell'Assietta, an old military road lined with 19th-century forts. You can also explore the Orsiera-Rocciavrè Natural Park, known for its diverse Alpine flora and wildlife. Nearby attractions include the ancient Fort de Ronce, the impressive Fort of Exilles, and various scenic lakes like Lake Malciaussia and Lago Grande.

The gravel trails around Venaus are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 50 reviews. Riders frequently praise the stunning Alpine landscapes, the challenging nature of the old military roads, and the panoramic views, especially from high-altitude sections like the Strada dell'Assietta and Col du Sommeiller.

Venaus is situated in the Susa Valley, which has some public transport options. While direct access to all trailheads by public transport might be limited, you can often reach towns like Susa, which serve as starting points for several routes, via regional trains or buses. From there, you might need to cycle to the specific trailhead.

Yes, the View of Lake Mont Cenis – Col de Sollières loop from Tagliata de la Cassa is a 37.8 km route specifically designed to offer stunning views of Lake Mont Cenis. Another route, the Refuge du Petit Mont Cenis – View of Lake Mont Cenis loop from Barrage du Mont Cenis, also provides excellent vistas of the lake.

The Strada dell'Assietta is a significant gravel biking highlight. It's important to note that during July and August, specific sections of this road are closed to motorized traffic on Wednesdays and Saturdays, making these days ideal for cyclists to enjoy the route without vehicle interference. Always check local regulations before planning your ride, especially regarding access and conditions at high altitudes.

Gravel routes in Venaus are known for significant elevation gains due to the Alpine terrain. For example, the Strada dell'Assietta – Colle dell'Assietta loop from Susa involves over 2,500 meters of ascent, while the Assietta gravel ring from Susa - Salbertrand variant has nearly 2,500 meters of climbing. Even the moderate Refuge du Petit Mont Cenis loop still includes over 430 meters of elevation gain.