Circular walk to the Tabourde and Pepino forts

The route starts off as a track that’s perfectly suitable for cycling. Then, from Fort Tabourde onwards, it becomes more of a footpath. There aren’t really any technical difficulties, apart from the fact that some sections are quite steep and, above all, the slopes on either side are quite steep – not to say vertiginous. You’ll need to push your bikes along short stretches to avoid taking any risks. The route takes about 3 hours at a leisurely pace, including stops to admire the scenery.

Details

n°104507063

Creation:
13 Aug 2026

Last update:
today

Last review:
–

Activity: Mountain biking
Distance: 10.02 mi
Duration according to the author: 3 hrs
Difficulty: Difficult
Back to start: Yes
Ascent: + 1,850 ft
Descent: - 1,844 ft
Highest point: 7,500 ft
Lowest point: 5,896 ft

Country: Italy
Areas: Alps, Mercantour
City: Limone Piemonte
Start/End: N 44.156044° / E 7.563935°
IGN map(s): Ref. 3841OT
Type of surface:
■ 33% Road ■ 34% Byway ■ 33% Path
Bike carrying: Not specified
Difficulty: Difficult
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Description of the route

The starting point is near Chalet Le Marmotte, in Italy, in the municipality of Limone.

(S/E) Head towards Strada del Sale. Follow this track until you reach the track that branches off to the right.

(1) Take the track, going round the barrier (applies only to motor vehicles), and follow it at a leisurely pace to Fort Tabourbe.

(2) At Fort Tabourbe, take a moment to admire the scenery whilst gazing at the Mercantour massif (Mont Bego, Rocher de l’Abisse, Mont Clapier, etc.). Turn back and take the track signposted ‘Strada del Sale’.

(3) Follow the signs for Strada del Sale. The track soon turns into a relatively wide path.

(4) At this junction, take the path on the right leading towards Fort Pepino. There will be a short section where you may need to push your bike to avoid the risk of falling.

(5) At Fort Pepino, take a moment to admire the view of the Marguareis massif. Depending on the season, you may also see edelweiss there.
Retrace your steps back to the signpost for the Strada del Sale.

(4) Turn right towards the Strada del Sale.

(6) At the junction with the Strada del Sale, take it on the left until you return to Chalet Le Marmotte.