The Susa Valley has always been a privileged area for international connections, thanks to the Montgenèvre and Mont Cenis passes. The Middle Ages enshrined its leading role as a transit route for merchants, armies, nobles, churchmen and pilgrims who had to reach Rome, the heart of Christianity, or Santiago de Compostela, a centuries-old religious destination. Thus was born the Via Francigena, which crosses the entire Susa Valley, today rediscovered as both a pedestrian and bicycle route
The area is a strong attraction for Italian and European skiers, with its hundreds of kilometres of ski slopes and a rich offer of winter sports such as downhill, snowboarding, cross-country and ski mountaineering.
Unspoilt landscapes form the backdrop, in summer, to hikes, climbs and walks to discover the area's historical and artistic heritage. Among the most demanding trekking routes are the Great Traverse of the Alps (GTA), the Balcony Trail and the Trail of the Franks, which retraces the route that Charlemagne and his troops are said to have followed in 773 to outflank the Longobard army.
Mountain biking is definitely the best way to discover these mountains, which offer many dirt tracks, mule tracks, paths and military roads. In particular, the upper valley is a true paradise for bikers, who can try their hand at numerous disciplines such as downhill, free ride and cross country.
