Unedited video of my drive with the BMW Performance Car Club during the HGT’25 Cross-Alps event, a fantastic 9-day journey through the Swiss, Italian, and French Alps.
Gear: GoPro 11 Black | iFootage Spider Crab Suction Cup
Edition H/W: MacBook Pro
Edition Software: Final Cut Pro
Site: www.bmwpcc.com | IG: www.instagram.com/bmwpcc
The Col de Turini is a legendary mountain pass in the French Alps, located in the Alpes-Maritimes department near the French-Italian border, renowned for its challenging climb, tight switchbacks, and prominence in both cycling and motorsport, particularly the Monte Carlo Rally. Situated in the Mercantour National Park, it connects the Vésubie Valley to the Roya Valley, offering dramatic scenery and a thrilling ascent. Below is a detailed description of the Col de Turini, covering its geography, climbing profiles, cycling and motorsport significance, scenery, history, and practical information.
Geographical Overview
Location: The Col de Turini lies in the southern French Alps, within the Mercantour National Park, in the Alpes-Maritimes department. It connects the Vésubie Valley (starting from Lantosque or Saint-Jean-la-Rivière) to the Roya Valley (starting from Sospel or Moulinet). The pass is near the French-Italian border, close to the town of Menton and the Mediterranean coast.
Altitude: The summit reaches 1,604 meters (or 1,607 m in some sources) above sea level. The pass features a signpost, a small restaurant (Auberge des Trois Vallées), and a parking area with panoramic views.
Access: The pass is accessible via the D2566 road (from Lantleque or Sospel) and other minor roads. The road is narrow, winding, and open year-round, though snow can make it treacherous in winter, especially during the Monte Carlo Rally. The summit is a hub for cyclists, rally fans, and tourists exploring the Mercantour.