Where is Genova-Figari Refuge?
Italy, europe
N/A
4.5 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: You're in Italy, in the Province of Cuneo, heart of the Piedmont region. You want something epic, right? Then you NEED to check out Rifugio Genova-Figari! This high mountain refuge sits pretty at the foot of the Alpi Marittime's highest peak.
The first refuge was built way back in 1898, but the modern one was inaugurated in 1981, replacing the original after the creation of Lago del Chiotas and Lago Colle Laura. It's open from June 15th to September 15th. You'll find a restaurant and bar on the ground floor, ready to refuel you for your adventures.
Getting there? It's an adventure in itself! The road is about
long from Entracque, and it's completely unpaved! You'll need a
to even attempt this super steep climb. But trust me, it's worth it.
You're in the Natural Park of the Maritime Alps here. Think stunning views, lush pastures, and two incredible lakes: Lago Brocan, a glacial beauty, and Lago del Chiotas. The latter actually feeds one of Europe's biggest pumped-storage hydroelectric plants! It's a feast for the eyes. Just be prepared for a bumpy, but unforgettable ride.
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 4.5 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in europe
hardThe military road to Colle delle Chaberton
🇫🇷 France
# Colle delle Chaberton: A Rough Alpine Adventure Perched at a breathtaking 2,674 meters (8,772 feet) in the French Alps, Colle delle Chaberton is one seriously impressive mountain pass. Located in the Hautes-Alpes département, this spot draws adventurous drivers looking for something genuinely off the beaten path. The journey starts in the charming Italian village of Fénils in the Susa Valley, following what locals call the Strada militare dello Chaberton (also known as the Strada militare di Val Morino or Fenils-Chaberton road). Here's the thing though—this route is completely unpaved, and it's not for the faint of heart. Beyond 2,300 meters, conditions deteriorate significantly, making the upper sections impassable for most vehicles. The road has serious historical credentials. Italian troops constructed this carriage route between 1896 and 1898, building an artillery battery at the summit aimed straight at the French town of Briançon and the Col de Montgenèvre pass. It's one of the highest mountain roads in the entire country, and it once held the title of the Alps' highest unpaved road. Today, the condition is pretty rough—you'll only find certain sections occasionally driveable, and only for authorized vehicles since 1987. But if you're the type who loves exploring where few roads venture, this high-altitude military relic offers an unforgettable Alpine experience with incredible views and serious bragging rights.
hardA very narrow road to Chew Reservoir in Greater Manchester
🇬🇧 England
Okay, adventure awaits in Greater Manchester! Let's talk about Chew Reservoir. Perched way up high at 1,600 feet, this beauty was England's highest reservoir for ages. You'll find it nestled at the top of Chew Valley. The road? Mostly paved, but keep an eye out for a bit of gravel thrown in for good measure. It's known as Chew Road, but here's the thing: private cars aren't allowed all the way up. Park up near Dovestone Reservoir and enjoy the final leg on foot. Trust me, the views of Saddleworth Moor are worth it! This climb, starting from the A635 near Greenfield, clocks in at just under 3 miles, but don't let the short distance fool you. You'll gain over 900 feet, making for a pretty solid 6% average gradient. Get ready for those legs to feel it!
moderateRoad trip guide: 26 hairpin turns to Pas de l’Escous
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: Pas de l’Escous, a hidden gem nestled in the French Alps-Maritimes, not far from Italy. This paved beauty, also known as the D21, clocks in at just over 6 miles, stretching from Lucéram to the D2566. What's the payoff? Seriously stunning views of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. Reaching 3,320 feet, you can hit this route year-round. Just a heads up, thrill-seekers: it's got 26 hairpin turns and some seriously steep sections, hitting almost 10% grade in places. Best part? You'll likely have the road almost entirely to yourself. Total bliss!
extremeWhere is Mont Janus?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: Mont Janus, a seriously epic peak way up in the French Alps near the Italian border. We're talking Hautes-Alpes region, overlooking this cute town. The big draw? It’s an old-school military road that climbs up to a fortress on top. This isn’t your Sunday drive! Starting from Montgenèvre, you're looking at a 5.2 km trek, but don't let the short distance fool you. This gravel track gains some serious altitude, climbing over 700 meters, which means an average gradient of 13.5% – ouch! The road itself is narrow, steep, and can be slick. We're talking proper exposed sections and mega drop-offs. You’ll need a 4x4 with some serious clearance and mad off-road skills to tackle this one. This thing was built for army vehicles, not your average hatchback. At the top, you'll find Ouvrage du Janus – the old military fort. Think fortifications from the late 1800s and the 1930s (Maginot Line era). Word of warning: exploring the ruins is a no-go because they're super unsafe. The route winds past abandoned forts, gun emplacements, and barracks. The panoramic views are unbelievable. Keep in mind this road is closed in winter. Snow can shut it down anytime.