Cesana-Sestriere – International Historic Car Hill Climb

A legend of uphill speed

The Cesana-Sestriere is one of the most beloved and long-standing hill climbs in the Italian motorsport scene. First held in 1961, this international race for historic cars returns every summer to the municipality of Cesana Torinese, in the Province of Turin and the heart of Piedmont, attracting drivers, crews, and enthusiasts from all over Europe. The scenic and challenging climb has entered the collective memory of motorsport as one of the classics of the Upper Susa Valley's Olympic Mountains.

The route through the Olympic Mountains

The track stretches for approximately 10.4 kilometers along the historic road that rises from Cesana Torinese (1,345 meters above sea level) to Sestriere (2,000 meters), overcoming a significant elevation gain through hairpin bends and straights immersed in the alpine landscape. It is one of the longest and most evocative climbs on the calendar, where driving technique counts as much as engine power.

Championships and categories

The event is a qualifying round for the European Hill Climb Championship and the Italian Historic Car Hill Climb Championship (CIVSA), as well as the Historic Hillclimb Cup. The track features cars that have made automotive history, from sports-prototype barchettas to competition gran turismos, accompanied by a section dedicated to modern vehicles.

The Cesana-Sestriere Experience

Alongside the timed race, the Cesana-Sestriere Experience takes place—a regularity and dynamism trial reserved by invitation for prestigious historic cars and contemporary supercars. It is a highly charming event that transforms the climb into a runway of mechanical elegance, much appreciated by the public.

A weekend of motorsport passion

The Cesana-Sestriere is not just a competition: it is a local event that brings the Upper Susa Valley to life for an entire weekend, with paddocks, car exhibitions, technical inspections open to enthusiasts, and the unique atmosphere of a mountain race. Organized by the Automobile Club Torino, the event combines sport, tradition, and automotive culture in a natural setting of rare beauty.