Dear 4×4 off-road enthusiast,
Since you’re here, you’re probably looking for an exciting adventure and considering a trip to the Western Alps. I assure you that it’s a great idea! On this website, you will find a ready-made off-road route in the Western Alps that you can take advantage of.
Discover and buy our off-road guide!
I first visited the Western Alps in 2019 and had one of the most beautiful adventures of my life, since I started exploring the world by off-road vehicle twenty years ago.
I managed to drive up to almost 3000 meters above sea level and conquer the highest military roads and tunnels in Europe from the late 19th century. I reached abandoned forts and enjoyed breathtaking views. I visited famous French and Italian ski resorts, as well as amazing medieval towns and villages full of unique monuments. I drank French wines and ate delicious, authentic Italian pizza and spaghetti…
Watch a movie from the route in the Western Alps:
This film was edited from fragments of other authors’ films. We invite you to watch those films:
You probably know that planning a route for such a trip is not easy. It took me a few weeks to gather information. I visited many travel websites and local tourist services. But it didn’t save me from a few surprises, not all of which were pleasant.
- On the films, well-equipped off-road vehicles are shown, but I assure you that factory SUVs also conquer alpine routes. That was the first surprise.
- Wild bivouacs were also shown in the films, but unfortunately, wild camping is not officially allowed in the Western Alps. Fines are imposed for this, but I saw many crews from all over Europe who ignored this. That was the second surprise.
- The third surprise was also related to this because it turned out that without reservation, it is difficult to find a place in the campsites.
- The fourth surprise was the ban on driving cars on some routes on certain days of the week. This is a local way of sharing trails with hikers and cyclists, who are spared from inhaling exhaust fumes and noise.
- Another surprise was the fees for entry to the most popular trails and the restriction on the number of cars that can enter.
- The last surprise was my wife’s fear while driving on narrow rocky ledges over the abyss. Surely, the ride there did not give her pleasure. And I was very tired and regretted not shortening the route.
I have gathered all my experiences in the Offroad Guide, and now you can take advantage of a ready-made off-road route in the Western Alps.
In the Offroad Guide, I present the entire route.
It is 1300 km long and is divided into 14 daily stages. It starts in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, at the foot of the highest peak in the Alps, and ends in Menton on the French Riviera.
The route includes, among others: visiting the French resorts of Chamonix, Val d’Isere, and the Italian Bardonecchia, driving to the famous Sommeiller Pass (the highest place in Europe where you can drive an off-road vehicle – almost 3000 meters above sea level), the old military road to Fort Jafferau, passing through the Le gallerie del Seguret tunnel, Fort Fenestrelle, the historic Briancon, Lake Serre-Poncon, the Col du Parpaillon pass with a tunnel, the towns of Vinaldo and Vernante, and the mountain forts of Marguerie, Pernante, and Central…
All stages have been planned so that you don’t drive for more than 6 hours a day. Some stages are much shorter, as they are just commutes to beautiful places where I recommend taking a break in the beautiful surroundings. Stages can be combined, shortened, or skipped.
The off-road guide is available online. You will receive an email with a link to download the package of files immediately after purchase.
The package includes a detailed description of the route (PDF file) and 14 KML files (one for each stage) for GPS navigation in the recommended MAPS.ME application. It also includes 14 GPX files (one for each stage) for those using GARMIN devices.
What will you find in the PDF file?
In the general information, I present the requirements for travelers in Italy and France. You will learn what equipment is necessary and what documents you need for the car and crew members. I also describe the rules for using roads and where and how to pay for them. I also provide emergency phone numbers.
You will also find an invitation to participate in the Never Ending Rally.
Join the largest amateur off-road car competition in Europe. The winner is the crew that completes the most of our routes. You can ride whenever you want! More information is available on this website.
In the detailed descriptions of each stage, I inform you about their length, road character and difficulties, restrictions that apply or may occur, and dangers. I present attractions to visit, suggest where to shop, eat, and refuel your car. I indicate campsites for accommodation. I also provide data for making reservations.
How to use GPS navigation files?
You can use GPX files on GARMIN devices. However, I recommend using KML files and the free and very simple MAPS.ME application. It works online and offline on smartphones, tablets, etc. with Android and iOS systems.
Start by installing this application on your device. Then simply send the KML files by email to the mailbox on the device with MAPS.ME and open them. Android immediately installs the route and it is visible on the screen. The system for Apple mobile devices (iOS) requires opening the file (an incomprehensible text will appear) and clicking on the “share” icon in the upper right corner. On the displayed list, select the Maps.Me program.
The MAPS.ME application is compatible with CarPlay and Android Auto. This means that if you connect your phone to a car radio with a display that supports these systems, your route will also be visible on the car screen.
You will receive detailed instructions in an email after purchase, along with a link to download the files. I provide assistance if needed.
I invite you to purchase and assure you that the offered off-road route in the Western Alps is currently the most up-to-date. It was checked and updated in September 2024.
