Colle Delle Finestre: That Epic Bucket List Climb and Why You Should Do It on Your Road Bike
There are cols whose reputations precede them. They are iconic, fabled, talked about over coffee stops. And even in all sorts of online rabbit holes. And Colle delle Finestre is one of those. Yet, despite its mythical status, it’s the type of climb you might swear you’d only ever tackle once. Brutally steep, rough gravel, no respite. A sufferfest to be survived, not savoured.
At least, that’s what I thought after ticking it off in 2022. I vowed never again. Then, in June 2025, I went back. And it was glorious. Again.
Two Times Up
In September 2022, I first took on the Finestre as part of a RAW Cycling Magazine event. We set off from Montgenèvre. An international peloton of mixed levels. Men and women. Seasoned climbers and hopeful grimpeurs. The road wound upwards, the air thinned, and the chatter died off. I hit the switchbacks. Then the gravel. And once we reached the top, it appeared we all fell in love with the cruelty of the Finestre.
Fast forward to 2025. A different crew. Maats Cycling Culture members this time. Fewer kilometres. Starting from Cesana Torinese. But the climb hadn't softened. Two rides, two flavours. Same reverence.
Why You Should Ride Colle Delle Finestre on a Road Bike
Let’s settle this early. Leave the gravel bike at home. Yes, it’s easier. Yes, it’s more forgiving. But if you want to taste the real Colle delle Finestre experience, you need to ride it roadie style. Go 25 or 28mm tyres. It’s how the Giro intended.
The lower section lures you in a bit. Tarmac and pine-sheltered switchbacks. Steady 9 to 14% gradients. Silence but for your breathing.
Then, just when you’ve found your rhythm, the surface disappears. Gravel, chunky and indifferent, stretches out for the final eight kilometres. And that’s where the magic is. The mythology. The madness.
Tactics for the Top
Before you enter the gravel, fill your bottles. Because just where tarmac gives way to dust, you’ll find a fountain on your right-hand side. Don't miss it.
Tyres & Pressure
I would say that 25mm will do, 28mm is comfier. I’ve ridden both. Always with inner tubes. Not a single puncture in two trips. Same for the other thirty-odd riders. Tubeless is a bonus to prevent a snake bite.
Gearing & Cadence
Compact or sub-compact is your alley. I used SRAM’s 34/33T, and wouldn’t have traded it for the world. As on many climbs, cadence is your metronome. Keep it smooth, stay seated on the steeps, and don’t waste watts fighting for grip.
Gravel & Technique
Line choice matters. The surface is inconsistent. Ride smart, then hard. Keep your balance. Don’t tumble over in one of those tight switchbacks. On the flatter sections, look up, take it in. Make sure you don’t miss the views.
The Descent is like A Civilised Return
From the summit, the road all the way to Sestriere is mercifully paved. The descent is narrow and winding, but smooth and manageable. No gravel panic. Just old-fashioned descending with some tight turns, switchbacks and the odd Fiat Panda. Be wise. Use your skills. And relax. You've earned it.
Finestre Route options
I got two route options for you. Curated by me. Whichever you choose, both routes include the Finestre and Colle del Sestriere, with the Briançon loop throwing in an extra climb back into France over Montgenèvre. Traffic there is moderate, but you’re gifted a cyclist-only tunnel with views to steal your breath.
Option 1: FINESTRE FROM BRIANÇON
Start: Park des Sports, Briançon, France
Distance: 152 km
Elevation: 3,800 m
Route: Briançon – Susa – Colle delle Finestre – Sestriere – Montgenèvre – Briançon
Option 2: FINESTRE FROM Cesana Torinese
Start: Despar Express, Cesana Torinese, Italy
Distance: 94 km
Elevation: 2,500 m
Route: Cesana – Susa – Colle delle Finestre – Sestriere – Cesana
Eat Well, ride Better
Some might say I overrate coffee and food stops. But I’d argue they’re the beating heart of any great ride. Moments of local flavour and stories shared over carbs and caffeine. So if that sounds like you, here’s where to refuel.
Pasticceria Pietrini, Susa (IT)
A classic Italian café, unpretentious and perfect, called Pasticceria Pietrini. Espresso, cornetto, and a moment’s calm before the ascent.
Rifugio Alpe Pintas, finestre (IT)
Halfway down from the summit, this cosy mountain hut called Rifugio Alpe Pintas serves hearty fare and panoramic views. A table with a tale to tell.
Mastro Gelataio, Briançon (FR)
The best gelato in town, Mastro Gelataio. Your post-ride indulgence awaits right here.
The Historical Spine of the Finestre
I’m sorry to say, but the Colle delle Finestre wasn’t just built in the 90s for the Giro d’Italia. Those roads were built in the 1700s instead. It once linked the valley to the Forte di Fenestrelle. An arterial military route. When you go up here, you pedal not just in the tracks of Giro champions, but in the ghostwheel ruts of history.
And if you want more of that, the nearby Strada dell’Assietta offers further gravel glory. Though, approach this on a proper gravel rig. There’s no tarmac descent to save you.
When to Ride the Finestre
Like many mountain roads, the Finestre is also a seasonal climb. Usually closed from November to late May. The sweet spot lies between late June and early October. July and August offer predictability and sunshine, but also the biggest crowds. In case, aim for early mornings and weekday starts.
Last but not least, avoid rain if you can. Although I have no experience with this, I tend to think that the gravel literally can turn into a slippery slope.
Colle delle Finestre: FAQ’s
For those landed here mid-Google, searching for intel on the Finestre, here’s your shortcut to clarity.
Can I ride the Finestre on a road bike?
Yes. A set of 25mm tyres or wider will do just fine.
Should I ride tubeless or tubes on the Finestre?
Tubes are fine. I had no issues. But yes, tubeless is the safer option.
Is the Finestre risky for flats?
Only if you're careless or with under-inflated inner tubes.
How is the Finestre descent?
Sketchy? Not at all. All tarmac in the direction of Pourrieres. It’s just narrow. Normal caution and skills apply.
What are the best Finestre routes?
Cesana is the classic one. Go over Briançon and Montgenèvre for the full cinematic experience.
Final Thoughts
The Colle delle Finestre is something special. Almost a pilgrimage. Also, a paradox. Both savage and stunning. Famous and forgotten in places. Ridden once, yet unforgettable.
At least ride it like the pros. On your road bike. Embrace the challenge. Earn the view. And maybe, just maybe, you'll find yourself coming back for more.