When is the best time to travel for a Western Alps motorcycle tour?

The ideal time for a Western Alps motorcycle tour is between June and September, when the high mountain passes are free of snow and open. During this time, Assietta, Sommeiller & Maira-Stura offer the best conditions, moderate temperatures, and clear views of the Alpine passes. Spring and autumn are often still prone to weather variations or closures.

What requirements does the Western Alps motorcycle tour place on my enduro experience?

This Western Alps motorcycle tour is aimed at experienced enduro riders with solid off-road experience. Gravel, loose rocks, and steep turns demand good balance and vehicle control. Those who regularly ride on unpaved roads will find the perfect mix of technique and riding fun here.

Is the Western Alps motorcycle tour suitable for beginners or only for experienced riders?

Beginners with a street focus should first choose an easier enduro trip. The Western Alps motorcycle tour leads over challenging gravel roads and passes up to almost 3,000 meters in elevation. However, those who have already gained enduro experience can safely grow with our guides and learn something new every day.

Which passes and highlights are included in the Western Alps motorcycle tour?

Highlights of this Western Alps motorcycle tour include legendary routes such as the Assietta Ridge Road, the Col de Sommeiller (2,995 m), Monte Jafferau, Col du Parpaillon, and the Maira-Stura Ridge Road. Each stage combines spectacular views, off-road flow, and alpine history.

How much asphalt vs. gravel do you ride on the Western Alps motorcycle tour?

The Western Alps motorcycle tour consists of about 70% gravel and 30% asphalt. Asphalt is mainly used for connecting sections between the off-road segments. The focus is clearly on alpine terrain, with varying surfaces from solid natural stone to loose gravel.

Which passes in the Western Alps can be legally traversed with a motorcycle?

Most legendary routes of this Western Alps motorcycle tour are legally accessible. This includes Assietta, Sommeiller, Parpaillon, and Maira-Stura. Individual sections may be seasonally closed. Overcross checks all permits in advance and always chooses legal, approved paths.

Do you need a permit or toll for the Western Alps motorcycle tour?

Some sections such as the Alta Via del Sale or the Sommeiller require a small toll or day permit. This can be paid on-site or online and is usually included in the tour price. Overcross takes care of all necessary permits for your Western Alps motorcycle tour.

What equipment (tires, protective clothing, fuel reserve) do you recommend for the Western Alps motorcycle tour?

Studded tires (e.g., TKC 80 or Anakee Wild) and complete protective clothing with armor are recommended. A hydration bladder, thin gloves, and rain protection should also be included in your luggage. For longer stages, a fuel reserve of > 250 km is helpful. You will receive a detailed packing list before the tour begins.

What are the daily riding distances and elevation gains on the Western Alps motorcycle tour?

The daily stages of the Western Alps motorcycle tour average 130-180 km and 1,500-2,500 meters of elevation gain. Depending on the weather and group, the off-road proportions vary. Regular breaks and lunch stops are firmly scheduled to ensure the fun never falls short.

How dangerous is riding on off-road tracks in the Western Alps?

With caution and the right technique, the Western Alps motorcycle tour can be handled safely. Our guides ride proactively, maintain radio contact, and adjust the pace. The risks mainly lie in weather changes, loose stones, or oncoming traffic. We provide daily briefings for safety.

Can I bring my own motorcycle on the Western Alps motorcycle tour, or are rental bikes available?

Both options are possible. You can arrive with your own machine or book a Yamaha Ténéré 700 Rally as a rental motorcycle. All bikes are suitable for off-road riding, well maintained, and optionally combined with luggage transport. Ideal for a stress-free Western Alps motorcycle tour.

What accommodations and overnight options are available on the Western Alps motorcycle tour?

We stay in hotels, auberges, and mountain lodges along the route. Each accommodation offers secure motorcycle parking, good food, and alpine charm. Camping or nature spots can be optionally integrated into individual stages.

What does the travel and logistics look like for the Western Alps motorcycle tour?

The meeting point is near Turin. Arrival by motorcycle or plane is possible. Your rental bike is ready. Alternatively, Overcross can transport your motorcycle directly to the starting point. This ensures the Western Alps motorcycle tour begins for you stress-free and organized.

Is single room or camper/tent accommodation possible on the Western Alps motorcycle tour?

Yes, a single room can be booked for an additional fee. Those who love adventure can spend some nights in a tent or camper, if the terrain allows. Flexibility is part of this Western Alps motorcycle tour: comfort and freedom are not mutually exclusive.

What happens in the case of closures or bad weather on the Western Alps motorcycle tour?

In case of weather-related closures, our guides will flexibly adjust the route. The Western Alps motorcycle tour remains safe and legally traversable at all times. Rain, snow, or ice are part of the adventure. The team reacts with experience and alternative routes.

What are the overall costs for a guided Western Alps motorcycle tour?

The tour price starts at €1,549 per person, including guide, accommodation & breakfast. Additional costs may include rental bike, tolls, fuel, and single room surcharges. All services are transparently listed. No hidden fees.

How does the Western Alps motorcycle tour differ from other Alpine routes?

The Western Alps motorcycle tour is rougher, more authentic, and more off-road heavy than typical Alpine passes. Instead of asphalt and tourist traffic, you can expect old military roads, natural trails, and absolute freedom. Overcross takes you to where the Alps are still wild.

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Motorradreisen Europa, Assietta-Pass, Westalpen

MOTORCYCLE-TOURS · EUROPE

Alps Motorcycle Tour: Col de Sommeiller & Parpaillon

Name: Alps Motorcycle Tour: Col de Sommeiller & Parpaillon — 2026-07-27
Start: 2026-07-27
End: 2026-08-03
Location: Europe

Alps motorcycle tour through the Western Alps takes you along the Italian-French border on legendary gravel passes: the Col de Sommeiller at 2,995 m, the unlit summit tunnel of the Col du Parpaillon, and the Assietta Ridge Road.

How long? 7 Days

When? Jul 27, 2026

Price $ 1,853 / Person

The Journey

Guided enduro ride: Western Alps

This alps motorcycle tour covers 7 days between Italy and France on the most sought-after western alps enduro routes in Europe. Starting near Turin, you ride the Assietta Ridge Road, climb to the col de sommeiller at 2,995 m — the highest legally accessible point in the Alps — and tackle the col du parpaillon with its unlit summit tunnel before finishing on the Alta Via del Sale, 20 km from the Mediterranean coast. Duration: 7 days / 6 nights. Countries: Italy / France. Terrain: ~70% gravel / 30% asphalt. Season: June – September. Level: Expert enduro riders.

From $ 1,853 / Person

7 Days from 12 Expert

Select your date

27 Jul. 2026 to 03 Aug. 2026

Additional options

Motorradmiete Yamaha XTZ 700 Ténéré one-time

$706

Einzelzimmer Zuschlag one-time

$242

Key Highlights of the Trip

01 Assietta Ridge Road

Assietta Ridge Road

The assietta ridge road motorcycle section covers 40 km of gravel through the Cottian Alps on Day 2. You ride from Colle del Colombardo to Colle delle Finestre with views over the peaks — a classic western alps enduro opener.

02 Col de Sommeiller 2,995 m

Col de Sommeiller 2,995 m

The col de sommeiller motorcycle ascent reaches the highest legally drivable Alpine point. Rocky terrain and sharp turns lead to a wide panorama at the top. This is the standout day of the guided motorcycle tour alps.

03 Col du Parpaillon Tunnel

Col du Parpaillon Tunnel

The col du parpaillon features an unlit summit tunnel at 2,637 m with changing surfaces: gravel, mud, or ice by season. Crossing to the Stura Valley side is one of the best moments of this alps motorcycle adventure and rewards bold enduro riding.

04 Maira-Stura Ridge Road

Maira-Stura Ridge Road

The maira stura ridge road runs from Colle Valcavera to Marmora on a high gravel route with open views across the valleys. This motorcycle trip alps classic rewards riders with the isolation and rhythm of pure off-road riding.

05 Alta Via del Sale Finale

Alta Via del Sale Finale

The alta via del sale motorcycle route covers 60 km of historic military trail along the Italian-French border. It ends 20 km from the sea and closes this alpine enduro tour with a regional dinner at a Ligurian agriturismo in the mountains.

Italy / France

Seven days of alps motorcycle tour terrain across the Italian-French border, from Turin to the Mediterranean edge.

Days 1–7

Motorradreisen Westalpen, Tourgruppe in den Bergen auf Schotterpiste

Turin — Arrival & Briefing

The alps motorcycle tour begins near Turin, where riders arrive by plane or on their own machine. The rental Yamaha Ténéré 700 Rally is ready at the meeting point. The evening kick-off dinner at the hotel covers route briefing, logistics, and introductions — a calm start before the western alps enduro stages begin the following morning.

Motorradreisen Westalpen, schöner Ausblick über die Alpen

Assietta Ridge Road & Sestriere

The first riding day opens this guided motorcycle tour alps with the assietta ridge road motorcycle classic: 40 km of gravel from Colle del Colombardo (1,889 m) through the Susa Valley to the Colle delle Finestre. Surfaces are firm gravel with loose patches. The day ends in Oulx with a BBQ after the altitude-heavy opening stage of the western alps motorcycle tour.

Motorradreisen Westalpen, Motorrad durch den Schnee

Col de Sommeiller — 2,995 m

Day 3 targets the col de sommeiller, the highest legally accessible point in the Alps at 2,995 m. The ascent is steep, rocky, and technical — a defining moment of the col de sommeiller motorcycle experience and the venue of the Stella Alpina meeting. After the summit and lunch break, the group descends to the valley. An optional bonus pass is available for those with energy remaining.

Motorradreisen Westalpen, Motorrad auf dem Berggipfel

Monte Jafferau & Border Forts

Monte Jafferau (2,805 m) is today’s target, reached via enduro motorcycle tour tracks past historic border forts. Some forts can be entered and offer panoramic views over Bardonecchia. The ski slopes of Monte Jafferau form an unusual natural trail in summer. A short asphalt link returns the group to the French side, with an optional mountain lake detour depending on group energy.

Questions about the tour itinerary?

Our tour guide is happy to answer any questions about the day-by-day route, stops, and details.

Motorradreisen Westalpen, Serpentinen Straße am Berg

Col du Parpaillon Tunnel

The col du parpaillon is the most technically unpredictable day of the alps motorcycle adventure: its unlit summit tunnel at 2,637 m sits above a gravel surface that can range from solid stone to mud and ice. After the tunnel crossing, the far side drops into the wide Stura Valley — a strong contrast to the summit conditions. A paved link stage connects to the overnight stop in Demonte.

Motorradreisen Westalpen, serpentinen Straße in den Alpen

Maira-Stura Ridge Road

The maira stura ridge road from Colle Valcavera to Marmora is a high-altitude gravel route and one of the most satisfying stretches of the france motorcycle tour border crossing. Open views across both Italian and French valleys accompany the ride throughout. This motorcycle trip alps day rewards consistent riders with long rhythm sections and a quiet finish in Demonte.

Motorradreisen Westalpen, Motorradgruppe auf dem Berg

Alta Via del Sale to the Sea

The final day runs the alta via del sale motorcycle route — 60 km of historic military trail along the Italian-French border, finishing 20 km from the Mediterranean coast. The most demanding day of this alpine enduro tour, with sustained off-road sections and altitude changes. The tour closes with a regional dinner at a Ligurian agriturismo before riders depart the following morning.

Want a detailed description of all tour days?

Our expert will walk you through the full itinerary and answer all your questions.

Verified Reviews

What participants say about Motorcycle-tours in Europe

5.0

3 reviews

Peter H.

The guided Western Alps motorcycle tour stretches across the impressive gravel tracks between Italy and France, with the main stages on the Assietta-Kammstraße...

Jan H.

The organization of the guided motorcycle tour in the Western Alps was consistently well-structured. Daily briefings before the stages, especially before the de...

Marc K.

The Western Alps motorcycle tour over Assietta, Sommeiller and Parpaillon in Italy and France offers demanding gravel roads that impose real physical demands. T...

PRICE

from

$ 1,853 / person

Additional Options

Motorcycle rental Yamaha XTZ 700 Ténéré $ 706

Single room surcharge $ 242

Trip includes

Professional English-speaking tour guide
Support vehicle from 10 motorcycles including luggage transport
All overnight stays in hotels and inns including breakfast
Interactive route guidance across the Alps (varies from year to year)
Tour folder including packing list and hotel description
Guaranteed execution from 4 participants
Travel protection certificate (insolvency protection according to BGB §651r) is mandatory for all OVERCROSS trips.
Motorcycle tour guide from a group size of 8 people

FAQS

The ideal time for a Western Alps motorcycle tour is between June and September, when the high mountain passes are free of snow and open. During this time, Assietta, Sommeiller & Maira-Stura offer the best conditions, moderate temperatures, and clear views of the Alpine passes. Spring and autumn are often still prone to weather variations or closures.
This Western Alps motorcycle tour is aimed at experienced enduro riders with solid off-road experience. Gravel, loose rocks, and steep turns demand good balance and vehicle control. Those who regularly ride on unpaved roads will find the perfect mix of technique and riding fun here.
Beginners with a street focus should first choose an easier enduro trip. The Western Alps motorcycle tour leads over challenging gravel roads and passes up to almost 3,000 meters in elevation. However, those who have already gained enduro experience can safely grow with our guides and learn something new every day.
Highlights of this Western Alps motorcycle tour include legendary routes such as the Assietta Ridge Road, the Col de Sommeiller (2,995 m), Monte Jafferau, Col du Parpaillon, and the Maira-Stura Ridge Road. Each stage combines spectacular views, off-road flow, and alpine history.
The Western Alps motorcycle tour consists of about 70% gravel and 30% asphalt. Asphalt is mainly used for connecting sections between the off-road segments. The focus is clearly on alpine terrain, with varying surfaces from solid natural stone to loose gravel.
Most legendary routes of this Western Alps motorcycle tour are legally accessible. This includes Assietta, Sommeiller, Parpaillon, and Maira-Stura. Individual sections may be seasonally closed. Overcross checks all permits in advance and always chooses legal, approved paths.
Some sections such as the Alta Via del Sale or the Sommeiller require a small toll or day permit. This can be paid on-site or online and is usually included in the tour price. Overcross takes care of all necessary permits for your Western Alps motorcycle tour.
Studded tires (e.g., TKC 80 or Anakee Wild) and complete protective clothing with armor are recommended. A hydration bladder, thin gloves, and rain protection should also be included in your luggage. For longer stages, a fuel reserve of > 250 km is helpful. You will receive a detailed packing list before the tour begins.
The daily stages of the Western Alps motorcycle tour average 130-180 km and 1,500-2,500 meters of elevation gain. Depending on the weather and group, the off-road proportions vary. Regular breaks and lunch stops are firmly scheduled to ensure the fun never falls short.
With caution and the right technique, the Western Alps motorcycle tour can be handled safely. Our guides ride proactively, maintain radio contact, and adjust the pace. The risks mainly lie in weather changes, loose stones, or oncoming traffic. We provide daily briefings for safety.
Both options are possible. You can arrive with your own machine or book a Yamaha Ténéré 700 Rally as a rental motorcycle. All bikes are suitable for off-road riding, well maintained, and optionally combined with luggage transport. Ideal for a stress-free Western Alps motorcycle tour.
We stay in hotels, auberges, and mountain lodges along the route. Each accommodation offers secure motorcycle parking, good food, and alpine charm. Camping or nature spots can be optionally integrated into individual stages.
The meeting point is near Turin. Arrival by motorcycle or plane is possible. Your rental bike is ready. Alternatively, Overcross can transport your motorcycle directly to the starting point. This ensures the Western Alps motorcycle tour begins for you stress-free and organized.
Yes, a single room can be booked for an additional fee. Those who love adventure can spend some nights in a tent or camper, if the terrain allows. Flexibility is part of this Western Alps motorcycle tour: comfort and freedom are not mutually exclusive.
In case of weather-related closures, our guides will flexibly adjust the route. The Western Alps motorcycle tour remains safe and legally traversable at all times. Rain, snow, or ice are part of the adventure. The team reacts with experience and alternative routes.
The tour price starts at €1,549 per person, including guide, accommodation & breakfast. Additional costs may include rental bike, tolls, fuel, and single room surcharges. All services are transparently listed. No hidden fees.
The Western Alps motorcycle tour is rougher, more authentic, and more off-road heavy than typical Alpine passes. Instead of asphalt and tourist traffic, you can expect old military roads, natural trails, and absolute freedom. Overcross takes you to where the Alps are still wild.

OVERCROSS note on itinerary

The above travel description is a non-binding online proposal and does not represent a binding travel itinerary. We expressly reserve the right to make changes to the route, schedule, and accommodations (§ 651d BGB in conjunction with Art. 250 EGBGB). The terms and conditions of OVERCROSS apply.
Terms and Conditions of OVERCROSS