Cycling the Pian del Re

The one and only climb that leads to the base of Monviso, the iconic pyramidal peak visible from across Piedmont. A journey to the source of the Po River, Italy’s longest and most legendary waterway.

Monviso is the defining landmark of Piedmont, rising majestically above the surrounding mountains to an elevation of 3,841 meters. This iconic peak is the source of the Po River, Italy’s longest waterway, which crosses nearly all of northern Italy from west to east before emptying into the Adriatic Sea near Venice.

The climb to Pian del Re—“The Plain of the King”—at the base of Monviso was featured in two consecutive editions of the Giro d’Italia, in 1991 and 1992, with victories by Franco Chioccioli and Miguel Indurain, respectively. The road ends at an altitude of 2,010 meters, directly facing Monviso’s imposing north face.

It’s a place of wild beauty, with steep slopes and jagged peaks that inspire awe.

Details

Length

18.9km

Base Elevation

650m

Summit Elevation

2,010m

Elevation Gain

1,360m

Gradient (avg)

7.2 %

Max Gradient

17 %

Gearing Suggestion

34/28

The Climb

- From Paesana -

With the base of a massive mountain as its ultimate goal, this climb stands out for its unique layout: just 16 switchbacks spread over 18.9 km of road. This design results in long, straight, and often steep sections that demand both endurance and determination.

About halfway along the route lies the charming mountain village of Crissolo, an ideal spot for a break, with a cozy coffee shop and bakery, or simply to refill your water bottle.

The most challenging stretch comes at the 14th kilometer, just before Pian della Regina—“The Plain of the Queen”—where the gradient averages a punishing 11%. By this point, you’ll be cycling well above the tree line, surrounded by a wide-open and breathtaking alpine landscape.

The final 4–5 kilometers include a few ramps exceeding 15%, but the gradient gradually eases as you approach the summit. Take back your breath and enjoy the stunning beauty of the views that await you at the top.

Climbing up to the base of Monviso provides a true alpine full-immersion, in the presence of steep slopes, rocky peaks, sources of fresh crystal-clear water and open-wide landscapes.

Points of Interest

Mountaneering

Monviso was first climbed in 1861 by William Matthews, William Jacomb, and French guides Michel and Jean-Baptiste Croz. Matthews also founded the world’s first national mountaineering club, the Alpine Club of London, in 1857.

Natural Park

The Monviso Natural Park was established in 2016 to protect the iconic mountain and the Po River’s source. It is part of the UNESCO Transboundary Biosphere Reserve, spanning nearly 300,000 hectares across Italy and France.

Il Buco di Viso

“The Monviso Hole,” completed in 1481, was the first tunnel excavated in the Alps, easing commerce between France and Piedmont. At 2,900 m.a.s.l. and 75 m long, it’s accessible via a 3-hour hike from Pian del Re.

Ostana

The smallest municipality in the Po Valley with fewer than 100 residents, Ostana is a model of smart architectural redevelopment. It proudly belongs to the exclusive club of the “Most Beautiful Villages in Italy.”

Batiaje Cookie

Batiaje is a traditional cookie from Barge and the Po Valley, dating back to 1850. These festive, corn-flour biscuits take their name from the Piedmontese word for the rounded treats made for baptism celebrations.