High Alpine Passes • Historic Routes • Classic European Overland

This is alpine overlanding at its best — big mountain passes, winding ridgelines, and tracks steeped in history.

A proper journey through the heart of the Alps, linking France and Italy the best way possible — behind the wheel.

You’ll travel from the foothills near Lyon all the way to the Mediterranean, crossing some of the most iconic and remote parts of the French and Italian Alps along the way.

The route links old military roads, high mountain passes, and forgotten trade routes — the kind of tracks that feel like they were made for 4x4 vehicles. One moment you’re climbing above the clouds on a loose alpine track, the next you’re winding through a quiet stone village looking for a good coffee.

There’s a real sense of progression to this trip. Each day builds on the last — higher, more remote, more rewarding — with standout moments like reaching over 3,000m at Col du Sommeiller or camping out in places you’d never find on your own.

It’s not all alpine driving either. You’ll be travelling in a small group, stopping in places most tourists miss. There’s plenty of time to slow down, enjoy the food, take in the views, and experience the culture that makes this part of Europe so unique.

By the time you roll into the Riviera, you’ve properly crossed the Alps — not just seen them.

Great tracks, good food, local wine, and genuine experiences are all part of the journey.

What a Typical Day Looks Like

No rigid schedules — but generally:

• Morning briefing + hit the tracks

• 3–6 hours of varied off-road driving

• Scenic stops, photos, and plenty of breaks

• Finish with camp setup or local accommodation

• Relax, eat well, and swap stories

Testimonials

"I've been on multiple 4x4 Explorer Adventures tours with Rich. I very much appreciate all the effort he puts into finding the routes and planning these trips. Looking forward to the next ones!!"

— Martin B

"Rich has developed huge personal knowledge over many years of travelling this area. He was a fantastic guide, he has a leadership style that was relaxed but very effective!!"

— Rob P

Ready to Join Us?

Spots are limited to keep the group small and the experience personal. Book now, or get in touch at rich@4x4exploreradventures.com if you’ve got any questions. We're happy to talk things through.

• Duration: 12 days

• Group Size: Max 6 guest vehicles

• Terrain: Primarily gravel mountain roads and alpine tracks

• Driving: No extreme or highly technical driving required. Suitable for confident drivers and/or those with basic off-road experience.

• Next Dates: 6–17 August 2026, 3–14 September 2026, 5–16 August 2027, 2–13 September 2027

• Experienced expedition guide (Rich leads every trip)

  • 5+ years guiding 4x4 expeditions in New Zealand

  • 20+ years exploring and driving these European routes

• Small, tight-knit groups

• Deep, first-hand knowledge of the terrain, routes, and local areas

• Rich is fluent in both English and French, making navigating rural regions, local interactions, and logistics that much smoother

Where You’ll Stay

• Mix of wild camping in the mountains and well-equipped campsites

• Some camps are in historic locations (including old military forts)

• Campsites often include:

  • Showers and facilities

  • Bars and restaurants

  • Swimming pools

  • Optional cabins

• On selected nights, motels or hotels are available (we’ll let you know which ones in advance)

We operate a guiding-only model — we’ll recommend great accommodation options for each stop and can help with bookings.

• Trip starts in Lyon and finishes in Cannes (French Riviera)

• Rental vehicles are collected in Lyon and returned in Cannes

• We’ll be there in person to help with pickup, paperwork, and handover

Travel Connections

• Lyon and Cannes/Nice are well connected by TGV high-speed rail to Paris

• Lyon and Nice both have international airports with regular global connections

• Cannes is a short taxi or bus ride from Nice Airport

Where the Trip Begins

• If you’re renting a vehicle: start point is the rental depot (Lyon)

• If you’re bringing your own vehicle: start point is the first night’s accommodation

• Full details are provided well in advance, and we’ll guide you through it

Vehicle Hire Made Easy

• We can guide you through the rental process step-by-step

• Support with booking the right vehicle

• On-the-ground help at pickup

The indicated guiding cost of the French and Italian Alps Overlander is per vehicle.

Vehicle rental is additional.

All travellers are responsible for their own flights and personal travel insurance.