The 20 Most Amazing Peaks around Montgenèvre

For a deep dive into history, Mont Chaberton Fort is a must-visit. Often called the "Fort of the Clouds," it features the impressive ruins of an Italian fort constructed at its summit starting in 1892, once considered the highest in the world. The fort became French in 1947. You can also find remnants of military installations from the Vallo Alpino near Rocca Clarì.

Yes, Rocca Clarì is a prime destination for rock climbers. It features an imposing northwest face with two large pillars of contrasting limestone rock, offering various routes of differing difficulty. A notable feature is the Via Ferrata (Ferrata Rocca Clarì or Ferrata Perona-Saglia) on the wall overlooking the Gorge di San Gervasio, considered one of the best and most challenging in the Alta Valle di Susa.

Many peaks around Montgenèvre boast exceptional views. From the summit of Mont Chaberton Fort, you can see the Écrins, Queyras, Italian Piedmont, Viso, and Montgenèvre itself. Grand Charvia / Monte Gimont provides 360-degree panoramas of surrounding peaks like the Izoard, Ecrins, and Cerces. Additionally, Col du Granon (2,413 m) offers beautiful views of the Écrins.

While many peaks involve challenging ascents, some areas offer more accessible experiences. Grand Charvia / Monte Gimont offers sympathetic hikes, and some routes involve discovering beautiful lakes like the turquoise-blue Lac Gignoux, which can be enjoyable for families. The area around Punta Colomion Summit and Bar is also described as a place for walking in summer, with an easy dirt road from Bardonecchia.

The region is rich in diverse natural features. You'll encounter high-mountain atmospheres, striking pyramid-shaped peaks like Mont Chaberton, and impressive rock formations such as the imposing northwest face of Rocca Clarì. Many routes also lead to beautiful alpine lakes, like Lac Gignoux near Grand Charvia / Monte Gimont, and offer views of vast alpine meadows and scree slopes.

Beyond hiking, the Montgenèvre area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find excellent cycling routes, including challenging ones like the "Briançon – Footbridge over the Guil loop." For runners, there are numerous running trails, such as "The viewpoint – Rue de l 'Eglise Fountain loop." Mountain biking is also popular, with routes like the one from Col Basset along the Strada dell'Assietta. You can explore more options in the Cycling around Montgenèvre, Running Trails around Montgenèvre, and Mountain Hikes around Montgenèvre guides.

Absolutely. Col du Granon (2,413 m) is a notable mountain pass offering beautiful views of the Écrins and even features a small restaurant with a sun terrace. Another significant pass is Col Basset, a panoramic point along the ridge separating the Susa and Chisone valleys, where the famous Strada dell'Assietta begins.

The summer months are generally the best time for ascents to the mountain peaks around Montgenèvre, as routes are more accessible without snow. For example, Grand Charvia / Monte Gimont is accessible for summer ascents. However, always check local conditions and weather forecasts, as high-altitude environments can change rapidly. Some routes, especially those on steep slopes, should be avoided in winter due to snow.

For challenging experiences, the ascent to Mont Chaberton Fort offers total immersion in a high-mountain atmosphere. Pointe des Rochers Charniers also offers routes described as challenging for both skiing and hiking. Additionally, the path to Aiguille Rouge Summit is not easy and is not recommended for those suffering from vertigo. Many difficult routes are available, such as the "Fort de la Turra – Col du Chaberton loop" for mountaineering.

Yes, some peaks and passes provide convenient amenities. At Col du Granon (2,413 m), you'll find a small restaurant, Buvette du Granon, with a sun terrace. Punta Colomion Summit and Bar also features a small bar at its 2,054-meter peak, which is a popular spot in summer.

Visitors frequently praise the exceptional panoramic views, the immersion in a high-mountain atmosphere, and the unique blend of natural beauty with historical sites. The impressive ruins of the fort on Mont Chaberton Fort are a particular highlight, as are the 360-degree vistas from peaks like Grand Charvia / Monte Gimont. The komoot community has highly appreciated these peaks, contributing over 250 photos and more than 170 upvotes to the guide's highlights.

Peaks like Pointe des Rochers Charniers, with its high elevation of 3,063 meters, offer a true high-altitude summit experience, providing a sense of remoteness. The ascent to Mont Chaberton Fort also offers total immersion in a high-mountain atmosphere, far from typical crowds. The wild northwest face of Rocca Clarì, plunging into the Piccola Dora valley, also contributes to a rugged, untamed environment.