Day Trip · Susa Valley
Sestriere &
Forte di Fenestrelle
Mountains, panoramic roads and the "Great Wall of Piemonte"
A perfect full-day trip from Turin combining Alpine scenery, mountain villages and one of the most impressive fortresses in Europe. The route between Sestriere and Fenestrelle Fortress offers some of the most scenic landscapes around Turin, especially during summer and autumn.
This experience combines mountains, history, panoramic drives, authentic Alpine atmosphere and military heritage — all within easy reach of Turin.
Destination 1
Sestriere
The iconic Olympic mountain resort
Located at over 2,000 metres above sea level, Sestriere is one of Italy's most famous mountain destinations and a symbol of the Alps around Turin. Originally developed by the Agnelli family in the 1930s, it became internationally famous during the 2006 Winter Olympics. Today it is a year-round destination for skiing in winter, hiking and biking in summer, and a panoramic Alpine escape all year long.
Why Tourists Love Sestriere
- Dramatic mountain scenery
- Olympic ski atmosphere
- Cool temperatures in summer
- Beautiful panoramic roads
- Perfect Alpine landscapes
Best Things to Do
Panoramic Walks
Even non-skiers can enjoy:
- Panoramic terraces
- Mountain cafés
- Easy scenic walks
- Alpine viewpoints
Explore the Via Lattea Area
Sestriere is part of the Via Lattea — one of the largest ski areas in Europe. Perfect for skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking and summer hiking.
Summer Escape from Turin
During summer, temperatures are dramatically cooler than Turin, making Sestriere a perfect escape from the city heat.
Insider Tip
The drive itself is part of the experience. The mountain roads between Oulx, Sestriere and Fenestrelle are incredibly scenic, especially in June, September and October.
Destination 2
Forte di Fenestrelle
The "Great Wall of Piemonte"
One of the most extraordinary fortifications in Europe. Stretching for almost 5 kilometres across the mountainside, the fortress is often called the "Great Wall of Piemonte." Built during the 18th century to defend the Savoy kingdom from France, it remains the largest Alpine fortress in Europe.
Why Tourists Love It
- Massive and dramatic architecture
- Incredible mountain setting
- Fascinating military history
- Unique guided tours
- One of the most underrated attractions near Turin
Curiosities
4,000 Covered Steps
The fortress contains a legendary internal staircase with around 4,000 covered steps connecting different sections of the complex.
Never Truly Besieged
Despite its enormous defensive structure, the fortress was never involved in major military battles.
One of the Largest Masonry Structures in Europe
It is often considered the second-largest masonry structure after the Great Wall of China.
Visitor Information — Guided Tours Only
Visits are generally possible only through guided tours. Options usually include:
- Short tours (~1 hour)
- Medium tours (~3 hours)
- Full-day experiences for hiking enthusiasts
Insider Tip
Wear comfortable shoes. Even shorter visits involve stairs, uphill paths and uneven surfaces.
Suggested Day Trip Plans
Option 1
Mountains + Fortress
Perfect full-day itinerary.
- Morning departure from Turin
- Late morning in Sestriere
- Lunch with mountain views
- Afternoon visit to Fenestrelle Fortress
- Scenic drive back to Turin
Option 2
Summer Scenic Road Trip
Ideal for photographers, couples and nature lovers. Focus on panoramic drives, mountain villages, Alpine landscapes and local food.
Option 3
Winter Alpine Experience
During winter, snow-covered scenery, ski atmosphere, warm mountain restaurants and dramatic fortress landscapes create a completely different experience.
Food & Local Experiences
Recommended local specialities:
- Polenta
- Mountain cheeses
- Wild game dishes
- Handmade pasta
- Genepy liqueur
- Piemonte mountain wines
Visitor Information
Travel Time from Turin
Approx. 1h45–2h15 depending on destination and weather
Very scenic and easy by car.
Premium Experience
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