
Sentiero Decauville
Hike along historic Decauville railways through stunning alpine landscapes, past dams, and serene lakes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for hiking

Sentiero Decauville
Best Time
Pleasant weather for hiking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike along historic Decauville railways through stunning alpine landscapes, past dams, and serene lakes.
"A beautiful and historical hike, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike!"

Wear sturdy hiking boots
Uneven terrain requires good footwear. :athletic_shoe: #hiking #trekking
Pack water and snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled on your adventure. :water_buffalo: #outdoors #adventure

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lago di Malciaussia
Usseglio
A stunning alpine lake offering breathtaking views and a perfect spot for a picnic.

Diga di Rochemolles
Bardonecchia
An impressive dam surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, a testament to engineering.

Forest of Marganai
Sardinia
Explore ancient forests and discover remnants of old mining railways on this unique trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Hike
Footwear and Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy hiking boots
Uneven terrain requires good footwear. :athletic_shoe: #hiking #trekking
Pack water and snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled on your adventure. :water_buffalo: #outdoors #adventure
Check weather forecasts
Mountain weather can change rapidly. :cloudwithrain: #travel #alps
Enjoy the autumn colors
Usseglio's fall foliage is spectacular. :maple_leaf: #autumn #piemonte
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy hiking boots
Uneven terrain requires good footwear. :athletic_shoe: #hiking #trekking
Pack water and snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled on your adventure. :water_buffalo: #outdoors #adventure
Check weather forecasts
Mountain weather can change rapidly. :cloudwithrain: #travel #alps
Enjoy the autumn colors
Usseglio's fall foliage is spectacular. :maple_leaf: #autumn #piemonte
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Sentiero Decauville for its stunning natural beauty, historical significance, and accessibility. The trails offer a unique blend of hiking and industrial heritage, with particular highlights being the alpine lakes and impressive dams. Some sections can be uneven, and facilities are limited, so preparation is key.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sentiero Decauville near Usseglio is accessible by car. Parking is available near Margone or Malciaussia. Public transport options are limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach the trailhead.
Key access points include Margone and the Lago di Malciaussia area in Usseglio. In Bardonecchia, the Diga di Rochemolles is a notable Decauville path. For Sardinia, the Marganai forest offers its own Decauville trail.
Public transport to the trailheads can be challenging. It's best to check local bus schedules in advance, especially for more remote sections like those in Usseglio or Bardonecchia.
Yes, the Diga di Rochemolles in Bardonecchia follows an old Decauville railway route, offering a scenic hike with dam views.
Indeed, 'Sentiero Decauville' refers to trails following old Decauville railways. Notable sections are found in Usseglio (Margone-Malciaussia), Bardonecchia (Diga di Rochemolles), and Sardinia (Marganai forest).
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Sentiero Decauville is generally a public hiking trail and does not require an entrance fee. Enjoy the natural beauty freely!
As an outdoor trail, the Sentiero Decauville is accessible year-round, though winter conditions can make it impassable. Daylight hours are best for hiking.
There is no booking process required for the Sentiero Decauville. It's an open-access hiking path for everyone to enjoy.
Typically, no special permits are required for hiking the Sentiero Decauville. Always check local regulations if you plan any specific activities like camping.
Access to the Sentiero Decauville is free of charge. The only costs you might incur are for transportation and any personal supplies you bring.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The difficulty varies by section. The Margone-Malciaussia route in Usseglio is described as simple and beautiful, suitable for most hikers. Other sections might be more challenging. Always check trail descriptions.
Hike duration depends on the chosen section and your pace. The Sardinia section is about 6km round trip. Allow ample time to enjoy the scenery and any points of interest.
Expect diverse landscapes, from alpine meadows and forests to impressive dams and lakes. The autumn colors in Usseglio are particularly stunning.
Facilities are generally scarce on the Sentiero Decauville. It's best to come prepared with all your own water and snacks. Restrooms might be available at the start or end points.
Many sections, like the one in Usseglio, are relatively easy and suitable for families. Ensure children are supervised and wear appropriate footwear.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning mountain vistas, serene alpine lakes like Lago di Malciaussia, impressive dams like Diga di Rochemolles, and the unique forest landscapes.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape photography. Golden hour can be magical.
Drone regulations vary by region and park. It's crucial to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can capture distant peaks. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions or long exposures of water.
Absolutely! Look for unique flora, fauna, and the interplay of light and shadow in the forests and along the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families visiting the Bardonecchia section, the Diga di Rochemolles offers a visually striking destination. The scale of the dam can be fascinating for younger minds. Ensure children are supervised closely, especially near water bodies or steep drop-offs.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
For those seeking a bit more solitude and a unique historical context, the Sardinian Decauville trail in the Marganai forest provides an immersive experience. Always inform someone of your hiking plans and carry a fully charged phone for safety.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to capture the dramatic scale of the Diga di Rochemolles or the atmospheric forests of Marganai. The historical remnants of the Decauville railways themselves can also make for compelling photographic elements, adding a layer of narrative to your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Decauville Railways
These railways were instrumental in developing remote areas, allowing for the efficient movement of heavy loads across challenging terrain. Many trails that were once bustling with the activity of these industrial railways have now been reclaimed by nature, offering hikers a unique glimpse into the past. The Sentiero Decauville in Sardinia, for example, traces a path used for transporting ore from the Marganai mines.
Exploring a Sentiero Decauville means walking in the footsteps of industrial history. You might encounter remnants of the old tracks, tunnels, or even old mining structures, all set against beautiful natural backdrops. It's a fascinating way to combine a love for hiking with an appreciation for industrial heritage.
Exploring the Usseglio Section
The journey takes you through picturesque landscapes, culminating at the Lago di Malciaussia, an alpine lake that reflects the surrounding peaks. This area is particularly vibrant in autumn, with the foliage transforming into a tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Many visitors enjoy packing a picnic to savor by the lake, soaking in the tranquility and natural splendor.
Beyond the main route to the lake, some hikers explore further, perhaps taking a different path back that passes by other natural features like the Lago Fallin. This adds an element of discovery to the hike, allowing for a more comprehensive experience of the Usseglio valley's natural wonders.
The Bardonecchia Dam Trail
The hike to the dam provides panoramic views of the surrounding Val di Susa. The sheer scale of the dam is awe-inspiring, and the reservoir it creates adds a serene element to the rugged landscape. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a relatively accessible hike with a significant visual payoff.
This section is also noted for its sensory experience, with the 'profumo di sottobosco' (scent of the undergrowth) adding to the immersive nature of the walk. It’s a place where visitors often seek peace and a chance to disconnect, finding solace in the combination of nature and history.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit