In addition to the well-known military roads in the Western Alps, Italy also offers a variety of off-road trails in regions such as Sardinia, Tuscany, Sicily, Liguria, Piedmont, Friuli, and Giulia. These trails attract off-road enthusiasts looking for varied and challenging routes.

Here you will find all legal off-road trails in Italy – clearly listed, with practical filters and a map view.

One of the dream routes for off-road driving in Italy is the Tre Valli high road, which leads from the Valle di Croce Domini through the Valdarone to Valtrompia. The Giogo della Bala (2,176 m) and Goletto delle Crocette (2,070 m) points are particularly impressive. This approximately 20-kilometer-long route is also suitable for regular cars and road motorcycles and is maintained year-round. Another highlight are the former military roads, built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to transport troops and weapons. Wide and with minimal elevation changes, they offer ideal conditions for off-road driving with large four-wheel drive vehicles and heavy touring bikes.

The Ligurian Border Ridge Road is considered one of the most beautiful off-road tours in Italy. This approximately 60-kilometer-long, continuously graveled route leads from the Tenda Pass to Colle Melosa and was built around 1880 and maintained by Mussolini. It offers an exciting adventure for off-road vehicles and touring bikes, but requires a head for heights as it reaches elevations of approximately 2,000 meters. In recent years, traffic has increased, leading to access restrictions; the route is closed on Tuesdays and Thursdays and is subject to a toll.

The Maira-Stura Ridge Road follows just beyond the Ligurian Border Ridge Road and connects the Maira and Stura valleys. This approximately 25-kilometer-long route is also entirely gravel and requires experienced drivers, as it runs along steep precipices and reaches altitudes of up to 2,500 meters. Mass tourism has also led to closures here; currently, the road is closed to motorized vehicles from mid-June to mid-September, with further restrictions expected to be introduced.

Many other well-known routes are located primarily in the Western Alps, such as the Colle Sommeiler, Monte Jafferau, and the Assietta Ridge Road.

At the end of 2021, a new decree was issued in Italy that affects the use of these trails. This decree redefines the road network and excludes unpaved forest roads from the public road network.

This results in a ban on unauthorized driving on these trails. According to our information, the decree primarily concerns jurisdiction over these non-public roads. Instead of the state, individual regions and municipalities are now responsible for maintaining these routes. If a responsible authority decides not to maintain a route, it will be closed to public traffic.

This situation is not new in Italy, and there are regions where more bans are likely to be seen in the future. This is often a result of the behavior of users such as off-roaders, mountain bikers, and enduro riders that has caused damage.

Too many off-roaders in one place can quickly lead to driving bans, as in the Dolomites and around Lake Garda. One example is the eastern slope to Monte Tremalzo. The route was a popular spot until the many two- and four-wheeled adventurers and their reckless behavior led to it being closed to motor vehicles. So, let's make sure we treat these great places a little more respectfully!

Italy – that sounds like pasta, wine, and dolce vita. But off the beaten track, true off-road treasures lie hidden in the mountains, forests, and valleys. Those exploring the lonely high alpine routes, Ligurian border trails, or Tuscan gravel roads on an enduro or off-road vehicle can look forward not only to driving challenges but also to culinary delights as diverse as the landscape itself.

In Piedmont and the Maritime Alps, where old military roads such as the Assietta Ridge Road or the Ligurian Border Ridge lead through alpine heights, mountain cuisine dominates: Polenta with ragù, spicy cheeses such as Castelmagno, hearty stews, and air-dried salami are popular dishes here – simple, nutritious, and perfect after a day on rough gravel.

In Tuscany, where cypress trees line avenues and gravel roads wind through olive groves and vineyards, things take a more Mediterranean approach: Fresh bread with olive oil, Pecorino cheese, Cinta Senese ham, and a glass of Chianti are almost essential for a stylish outdoor picnic.

Typically Italian: Even in small mountain huts or remote trattorias, emphasis is placed on quality and regional products. Whether it's homemade pasta, such as pici with wild boar ragù, or a steaming bowl of ribollita – the Tuscan vegetable soup with bread – the food here is authentic and cooked with love.

If you're feeling a little peckish on the go, there are paninis filled with mortadella, cheese, or grilled vegetables – ideal as provisions for a day on the slopes. And to round off a successful day of riding, a real Italian espresso is a must – perhaps even with a slice of Torta della Nonna or a cool gelato from the nearest village.

And if you're toasting with the locals in the evening, grab a grappa or limoncello – depending on the region and your taste.