Monte Jafferau in Bardonecchia: trekking, military fortresses, paragliding and motorcycling
From high-mountain trails to old military roads. Information on routes, difficulty levels, outdoor activities and how to get there
In summer, Monte Jafferau reveals another side of Bardonecchia's mountains. You'll find trails, sweeping views, and old military fortifications.
It's a destination for outdoor enthusiasts: trekking, off-road motorcycling, gravel cycling, and paragliding. This post focuses mainly on the trekking route. I'll also touch on other activities available in the area.
The main hike starts at Bacini Frejusia. They're 7 km from Bardonecchia, at an elevation of 1,908 meters. You can leave your car in a large dirt parking area. From there, a difficult 11.5 km route climbs 910 meters.
The first switchbacks climb alongside the ski slopes. Then trails and dirt roads take you to the summit. There, at around 2,800 meters above sea level, stands Forte Jafferau, a military fortress.
Come prepared with hiking shoes and water. There are no drinking fountains along the route.
At nearly 2,800 meters, the weather can change quickly. That's especially true in the afternoon, when thunderstorms can develop. Start early, dress in layers, and check the forecast beforehand.
Jafferau also attracts off-road motorcycle enthusiasts. Motorized vehicles are allowed from June 1 through September 30. But they're only permitted on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
During our visit, we also saw people paragliding. They were near Ski Area Jafferau, above Bacini Frejusia. Enthusiasts can use the ski lifts to carry equipment uphill. From there, they can reach the takeoff areas.
The area also attracts gravel cycling enthusiasts, thanks to its unpaved roads. But the climbs and elevation gain demand good fitness.
From Bardonecchia train station, a public bus reaches Jafferau. The Frejusia gondola departs from there. But this service runs only in July and August.
From central Bardonecchia to hiking: three ways to explore the area
Monte Jafferau is the most demanding experience I've described around Bardonecchia.
If you'd rather start in town, try my Bardonecchia on foot post. There, I explored the historic center. In my historic hike between Tur d'Amun and Bramafam post, I described another route. That one takes you through historic sites. Both are walks of about two hours, without particular difficulties. Jafferau is definitely the most strenuous: you climb above 2,800 meters.
I recommend discovering Bardonecchia in exactly that order. These are three different experiences. Start with the historic center and its cultural sites. Then follow trails past the old fortifications. Finally, head into Jafferau's high mountains.
In summer, the cool weather makes Bardonecchia even more appealing than the seaside. After a day on mountain trails, you probably won't miss the beach.
