Strada dei Cannoni – Varaita-Maira Ridge Road | Off-road

The Strada dei Cannoni (also known as the Varaita-Maira Ridge Road) is a former military road in Piedmont (Cuneo province) that is approximately 55 km long. It runs along a ridge between the Varaita and Maira valleys and crosses a total of eight Alpine passes, reaching an altitude of up to 2,300 metres.

Some facts:

Condition: Following repair work in mid-2025, the gravel route has reopened and is easily navigable with basic off-road skills. It features only gentle gradients (max. 10%).

Regulations: Since 2025, motorised vehicles have been permitted to use the route only on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but there is no toll.

Route: The route begins in the west at Colle della Bicocca and ends in the east; a signposted shorter alternative (35 km) lies between Colle di Sampeyre and Colle Birrone.

Access: The tarmac access roads run via Stroppo or Sampeyre.