At 2900 metres, the "Traversette" tunnel dates back to the 15th century. It is 72 metres long and emerges on the Italian side beneath Monte Viso. It overlooks the upper Po valley.
Dug over 500 years ago between France and Italy, the "Pertuis du Viso", now renamed "La Traversette", was Europe's first tunnel. It had an extraordinary history before falling into obscurity.
Opened in 1480 at an altitude of 2850 m, it is now the oldest tunnel in the Alps. It was the gateway from the Dauphiné to another country, the Marquisate of Saluce! It was an underground link between the Guil and Po basins.
The tunnel was essentially dug to ensure the safety of salt supplies for the population and livestock of the transalpine valleys.
Over the centuries, this passageway has become one of the most valuable pieces of historical heritage in the Alps and Europe.
Today, the Traversette Tunnel remains under threat from erosion and landslides, but hikers can still use it in summer.
This is important news for the heritage of the Hautes-Alpes and Queyras: on September 4, 2025 in Paris, the Commission Nationale des Monuments Historiques unanimously voted to classify the first Alpine breakthrough, the Traversette Tunnel. The protection rules associated with the classification apply.
Opened in 1480 at an altitude of 2850 m, it is now the oldest tunnel in the Alps. It was the gateway from the Dauphiné to another country, the Marquisate of Saluce! It was an underground link between the Guil and Po basins.
The tunnel was essentially dug to ensure the safety of salt supplies for the population and livestock of the transalpine valleys.
Over the centuries, this passageway has become one of the most valuable pieces of historical heritage in the Alps and Europe.
Today, the Traversette Tunnel remains under threat from erosion and landslides, but hikers can still use it in summer.
This is important news for the heritage of the Hautes-Alpes and Queyras: on September 4, 2025 in Paris, the Commission Nationale des Monuments Historiques unanimously voted to classify the first Alpine breakthrough, the Traversette Tunnel. The protection rules associated with the classification apply.
Rates
Rates
Free access.
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Openings
Openings
From 15 June 2025 until 26 September 2025 - Open everyday
Subject to snow conditions
