シャティヨンのおすすめライド

Passing under the imposing covered viaduct that leads to the tunnel marks the beginning of the toughest part of the climb: the gradients become more demanding (though never prohibitive), the fatigue accumulated over the previous 20 km takes its toll, and the winds from Switzerland begin to lash you... you're officially in the high mountains, after all, that's why you came here. If the day is one of the worst, with strong winds from the pass, these last 10 km will be a nightmare, but the beauty and majesty of the landscape will more than make up for even the most intense of efforts.

The highest road pass in the Aosta Valley and a place that has always fascinated the writer for its thousand-year history, the austere Mauritian hospice and the profound beauty of the landscape.

Hotel Italia is highly recommended

Mandatory passage for the Valle de Clavaritè from Fenils...

Hill with gentle slopes and a short climb

This stretch of cycle path that runs along a stretch of river (Dora Baltea) is very special.

The Arco di Augusto was built in 25 BC in honour of Emperor Augustus after the Roman victory over the Salassi. This impressive arch marks the northern entrance to the city and is located in line with the decumanus maximus. It is made of conglomerate blocks and has a single arch with a height of 11.40 metres. The ten half-columns on the facades and sides are decorated with Corinthian capitals. The Doric frieze, with metopes and triglyphs, adds a classical touch. In the Middle Ages it was known as Saint-Voût because of an image of the Redeemer that was placed there. During the 12th century it served as a residence for a local noble family and later as a fortress for the balestrieri. In 1716 the roof was replaced with slate due to water damage. The current appearance is the result of restoration work in 1912. Under the arch is a wooden cross, a copy of the original placed in 1449 as a votive offering against flooding from the Buthier River.

One of the most characteristic monuments of Aosta that tells of its Roman origins: built in 25 BC. by Aulo Terenzio Varrone Murena, not far from the eastern entrance of the walls.