COL DE TURINI BY MOTORCYCLE - TWO-WHEELED ITINERARY AMONG THE MARITIME ALPS

In this post we will talk about COL De TURINI, a cross-border escape that represents one of the most famous and spectacular motorbike itineraries in Europe. Famous in rallies for its hairpin bends and breathtaking curves, the Col de Turini extends along the Maritime Alps on the border with Italy, a destination particularly adored by all lovers of speed on 2 or 4 wheels. Although the name may initially suggest Piedmont (or some locality just outside Turin), this fun itinerary is located in the south of France. The Col de Turini enjoys great fame in rallies, as it is one of the stages of the historic Monte Carlo Rally (once a night stage then became a day stage). The same thing for cycling sportsmen, because it has been included a few times in the Tour de France. For all motorcyclists, on the other hand, it is a phenomenal experience circumscribed by suggestive views and simple roads, not too demanding, ideal for a motorcycle tour with friends.

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COL DE TURINI ITINERARY: THE ROADSITALIA ROUTE

For convenience, the route chosen by the Roadsitalia editorial team starts from Menton on the Cote d'Azur, the first French outpost after crossing the Italian border in Ventimiglia via the A10. From Menton, turn inland following the Route de Sospel (D2566): the road immediately begins to climb on the first curves that lead to the Col de Castillon and then drops slightly immediately afterwards and shows us the first suggestive views. Gradually eating the asphalt of the curves and hairpin bends, you pass the villages of Saint-Antonin, Le Muret, Saint-Paul and arrive in Sospel, a town in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region at 350 meters above sea level.

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This town, located just at the gates of the Mercantour National Park, is worth a short visit and is less than 10 km from the Italian border with Liguria. From here continue on the D2566 road towards La Torracca. At these points the climb towards the 1,610 meters of the Col de Turini begins, through sharp curves and ups and downs close to a unique and breathtaking scenery. Reached the top and made a small break to refresh and rest a bit, we leave again (this time downhill) following the direction of the Escarene, through the D2204, then La Verna following the R.te de la Grave (D21) and finally The Paran (D53).

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We are almost closing, but in the last few kilometers - still on the D53 towards La Turbie - we will face the last breathtaking panoramic curves before returning to our starting point (Menton). From this village, on clear and sunny days (if you are lucky), you can glimpse some glimpses of Montecarlo and the coast; it is therefore worth stopping for some souvenir photos before continuing and crossing the border to Italy.

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USEFUL ADVICE ON THE ROUTE COL DE TURINI

Just under 75Km, to discover an easily accessible area, even in a weekend. The average gradient is 7.2%, therefore suitable for those who are not very expert with the motorbike and are looking for a bit of a climb without overdoing it. If you choose to go on weekends pay attention to the timetables and traffic on the motorway, returning to Milan, Turin or Genoa. Not far from here - if you still don't have enough - you could hang up from Camerana, along the ancient Via del Sale that linked the Piedmontese hinterland to the Ligurian Riviera and tackle part of the motorcycle route between the Langhe and Roero. And you? Have you ever traveled the legendary COL De TURINI road on two wheels? Tell us in the comments or share your photos with us.