Forte di Fenestrelle: The Great Wall of the Alps in Piedmont

Region: Piemonte

Province / Nearest City: Province of Turin – nearest town: Fenestrelle

Attraction Name: Forte di Fenestrelle – The Great Wall of the Alps

Address: Via del Forte, 10060 Fenestrelle (TO)

Distance from Major City: About 90 km from Turin (1 h 40 min by car)

How to Get There:

• By car: From Turin, follow the SS23 through Pinerolo and up the Val Chisone to Fenestrelle. Parking is available at the entrance to the fort.

• By public transport: Trains from Turin reach Pinerolo, from where buses continue up the valley to Fenestrelle. From the village center it’s a short walk to the fortress.

What Makes It Unique in the World:
Stretching over 3 km along the mountain slope with more than 4,000 steps, the Forte di Fenestrelle is nicknamed the “Great Wall of the Alps.” Built between the 18th and 19th centuries by the Savoy dynasty, it is Europe’s largest alpine fortress. Its ramparts, stairways, and stone barracks climb the mountainside in an endless zigzag, blending military might with dramatic Alpine scenery. Today, it’s not only a symbol of engineering genius but also a spectacular hike through history, offering sweeping views over Val Chisone and the surrounding peaks.

Local Story / Fun Fact:
In the 19th century, the fortress was used as a prison. Among its most famous detainees was the Neapolitan patriot Francesco Faà di Bruno. Some say the endless staircases were designed to exhaust invaders—but they also test modern-day visitors’ legs! Locals love to joke: “If you climb all 4,000 steps, you deserve a medal—or at least a hearty polenta.”

Best Time to Visit:
May to October is the best period, with guided tours available daily in summer. Spring and autumn offer cooler temperatures for hiking, while in winter the fortress is closed to the public due to snow.

Nearby Food & Stay:

• Food: In Fenestrelle and nearby villages, taste mountain specialties like polenta concia (polenta with melted cheese), gnocchi alla Val Chisone (gnocchi with toma cheese), and hearty game stews.

• Stay: Charming B&Bs and alpine inns are scattered around Fenestrelle. Hotel Barrage in Pinerolo offers comfort with easy access, while local agriturismi provide rustic hospitality amid the mountains.