Off-road route in the WESTERN ALPS
Description
Off-road route in the Western Alps (1350 km)
This is a tourist route on the Italian-French border. It is 1350 km long, which we recommend spreading over 14 days. This will allow you to spend no more than six hours a day in the car. The rest of the time can be spent exploring numerous alpine attractions and relaxing. We recommend camping accommodations based on your own equipment. It is also possible to use hotels or guesthouses.
Last updated: July 2024.
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Why is it worth going off-road in the Western Alps?
Contrary to popular belief, there are places in so-called Western countries where off-road enthusiasts can really have a good time. One of them is the Western Alps. There is a network of old military roads there that are available for off-road vehicles. And the local authorities treat their users as valuable customers, providing income for the tourism industry in the summer, on par with hikers, cyclists, and motorcyclists.
The route can be covered by a factory off-road vehicle. Generally, there are no traction problems. However, we warn that sharp stones, steep slopes, narrow, rocky shelves over cliffs, which are often driven on, cause even very experienced crews to tremble. It’s better to skip a few sections if you’re afraid of heights…
We set up camping accommodations based on your own equipment because wild camping is officially prohibited (but not impossible). We also plan to prepare our own breakfasts and dinners there. Lunches can be eaten on the route, using local gastronomy. You can also use numerous hotels or guesthouses that you find yourself, for example, on booking.com.
The photos were taken by the Alka Wychota crew, who were the first to complete this route in July 2020.
You can earn 210 points in the Never-Ending Rally.
The off-road guide is available online. You will receive an email with a link to download the package of files immediately after purchase.
The package includes a detailed description of the route (PDF file) and 14 KML files (one for each stage) for GPS navigation in the recommended MAPS.ME application. It also includes 14 GPX files (one for each stage) for those using GARMIN devices.
What will you find in the PDF file?
In the general information, I present the requirements for travelers in Italy and France. You will learn what equipment is necessary and what documents you need for the car and crew members. I also describe the rules for using roads and where and how to pay for them. I also provide emergency phone numbers.
In the detailed descriptions of each stage, I inform you about their length, road character and difficulties, restrictions that apply or may occur, and dangers. I present attractions to visit, suggest where to shop, eat, and refuel your car. I indicate campsites for accommodation. I also provide data for making reservations.
How to use GPS navigation files?
You can use GPX files on GARMIN devices. However, I recommend using KML files and the free and very simple MAPS.ME application. It works works online and offline on smartphones, tablets, etc. with Android and iOS systems.
Start by installing this application on your device. Then simply send the KML files by email to the mailbox on the device with MAPS.ME and open them. Android immediately installs the route and it is visible on the screen. The system for Apple mobile devices (iOS) requires opening the file (an incomprehensible text will appear) and clicking on the “share” icon in the upper right corner. On the displayed list, select the Maps.Me program.
The MAPS.ME application is compatible with CarPlay and Android Auto. This means that if you connect your phone to a car radio with a display that supports these systems, your route will also be visible on the car screen.
Please do not distribute our Off-Rroad Guide illegally!
If you are going on the route with other crews, encourage each one to purchase our Off-Road Guide. Only then will we have the money to update and create new guides. And if you encounter a place on the route that requires updating, please send us a description of the problem.
See the most frequently asked questions (FAQ)
And if you don’t find the information you need there, feel free to write e-mail: kontakt@polskioffroad.com