CESANA T.SE San Gervasio Gorge

The route begins from the large parking area at about 1,530 m elevation, located near the bridge over the Piccola Dora, at the entrance of the first tunnel on the state road from Cesana Torinese going up towards Claviere/Monginevro. From here, you start to follow the Piccola Dora flowing on the right, traveling a gentle ascent on dirt road among broadleaf trees and willows; after passing a first debris cone, the road gives way to the trail which soon passes beside the first walls equipped for climbing at the Rocca Clarì Crag where you walk on walkways close to the rock and where on the right is the small metal bridge crossing the river. The trail, sometimes stony and at times steeper and more rugged but never difficult, passes near some debris cones until it reaches the start of the via ferrata leading to the summit of Rocca Clarì on the left, as well as other climbing routes. Along the path there are various explanatory panels on flora, fauna, and geological features. After a debris zone, about 1.2 km from the start, at about 1,630 m elevation, you cross the Piccola Dora on a small bridge, then immediately on the right find a trail leading first to the start of the visible suspension bridge above, and then to the San Gervasio chapel, allowing quick access to Claviere. Instead, head left leaving the more open part of the route and entering the gorges. The Piccola Dora forms some bends running close to the rock walls and several walkways continually cross from one side to the other, always underneath the suspension bridge passage; after about 2 km suddenly appears a waterfall flanked by a steep staircase that must be climbed, intersecting the suspension bridge and encountering the Bunker Via Ferrata; continuing to climb some diagonals among many ancient trees, along a staircase offering some panoramic points with spectacular views of the gorges, you reach after about 2.3 km and at about 1,760 m elevation a plateau equipped for a possible picnic stop; crossing it, you can turn right following the track which descends alongside houses on the left, reaching the parking near the ski lifts below the village of Claviere; alternatively, continue straight for about 100 meters and then turn right to reach the same parking.

Wear clothing and footwear suitable for the environment and season.

By car from Turin follow signs for the North Ring Road towards Trafori - Frejus.

Take the A32 motorway towards Bardonecchia and exit at Oulx - Monginevro - Sestriere. 

Continue on the state road towards Claviere, 2 km from the town of Cesana, before the tunnel, turn left and park the car

Large parking area on the left near the entrance to the first tunnel, going up along the state road from Cesana towards Monginevro

- Before starting any hike, it is advised to check the weather reports or ask for information at local Tourist Offices.

- It is good practice not to start a hike alone and always inform someone about your destination.

- Do not litter but carry your rubbish with you, possibly collecting any left by others.

- The travel times given are indicative and may vary depending on weather conditions and personal abilities.