Testa Rima

The Testa Rima summit with its 19th century fortifications is perfectly nestled in the Maritime Alps near Vinadio near Valle Stura and offers one of the longest trail descents in the entire region.

Description

The starting point is the picturesque village of Vinadio near the huge fortifications. From here, you pedal comfortably along the cycle path parallel to the Stura di Demonte and then up the old military road to the Casermata Forest Balota. A relatively rough and moderately steep path rides up to this building. It ends at around 1350 meters above sea level. From here, you push and pedal your bike up to the summit of Testa Rima. Don't give up is the motto here. An eternally long uphill is finally rewarded with a breathtaking panorama. Monte Viso to the north and the Mediterranean Sea to the south in good weather.

The trail descent is exquisite. For what feels like half an eternity, you surf down the entire ascent variant along the ridge. Initially at difficulty levels S2 to S3, there are a few hairpin bends and a somewhat exposed traverse on the way down. Once you reach the tree line, countless hairpin bends lead down to the Casermata Forest Balota and finally the Batteria Serziera. Between Casermata Forest Balota and Batteria Serziera, the difficulty increases to S3. After the Batteria Serziera, the route briefly climbs to S4 and then continues on S2 and S3 before you reach the valley floor and cycle back to the starting point on a side road.

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