1368 m 1011 m 1400 m 1096 m 1250 m 2421 m 2235 m 1847 m 2280 m 1665 m 2468 m 2650 m 2710 m 2100 m 1905 m 2232 m 2233 m 2130 m 2018 m 1500 m 1530 m 1600 m 2275 m 1550 m 1780 m 17 16 14 15 13 18 19 20 21 22 23 12 24 25 26 upper Boréon parking 40 (7) 430 m; 1.30 hours; pathway FFCAM, U. Putelat, C. Barcelo (winter) 1/6 - 31/10 + 33 (0)9 78233159, + 33 (0)6 18540243 [email protected] - www.refugelacougourde.ffcam.fr Sant’Anna di Valdieri 1011 m 2 1450 m; 4 hours Private always open Lago della Rovina 1535 m (Entracque) 9 1100 m; 3.30 hours CAI Ligurian Section always open San Giacomo di Entracque 1250 m 12 1500 m; 4 hours Giovane Montagna Moncalieri always open Ponte della Vagliotta 1115 m (Sant’Anna di Valdieri) 10 550 m; 1.45 hours CAI Cuneo Section, keys: tel. 0171 67998 closed Ponte della Vagliotta 1115 m (Sant’Anna di Valdieri) 9 1100 m; 3.30 hours CAI Ligurian Section always open Ponte della Vagliotta 1115 m (Sant’Anna di Valdieri) 12 750 m; 2 hours Club Alpino Accademico Italiano always open Terme di Valdieri 1368 m 12 950 m; 2.30 hours CAI Cuneo Section always open Gias delle Mosche 1591 m (Terme di Valdieri) 9 850 m; 2.30 hours CAI Ligurian Section always open paths and refuges of the Alpi Marittime and Mercantour The names of the refuges tell, through the dedication to the deceased protagonists, the first seasons of Liguria and Cuneo in conquering the Maritime Alps. Almost no-one is missing: there is Meo Figari, the mountaineer without pitons, who arrived in the Maritime Alps, departing from the sea of Genova; his climbing partner Emilio Questa, together with Lorenzo Bozano, underwent 13 hours travel from the coast to reach the Gesso Valley; then there is Federico Federici, who climbed the mountains and died in the sea during the Second World War and Ettore Marchesini, who left his companions of the section, his library and the funds to build the refuge; there is Costanzo Morelli, killed by a blizzard at the foot of the Monviso and Colonel Alvaro Buzzi, who didn't manage to completely see the refuge he had contributed to renovating; Edoardo “Dado” Soria and Gianni Ellena joined in memory, also appear, who were two of the greatest mountaineering exponents from Cuneo in the years between the two wars; there is also their companion Dante Livio Bianco, mountaineer and partisan; Franco Remondino, sub lieutenant of the Alpine troops and promising young mountaineer, who died during a climb at the age of 21, and Roberto Barbero, who fell while crossing the Catena delle Guide. The bivouacs complete the memory, moderately evoking to the visitors today of the absence of who, by accident or for passion, sometimes for both reasons, has seen his name linked forever to these mountains. Originally, the refuges were simple and basic: four walls with a plank to sleep on, a table and some chairs. Therefore little more than an isolated cabin in the mountains, base for a “chosen” few dedicated to climbing the main peaks of the Alps. In time the shelters have been modified and expanded to accommodate the ever growing public of mountain enthusiasts. And so a kitchenette, bunk bends, wool blankets and gas light appear. The role of “keeper” came about, a person who lives in one of the towns of the valley bottom and stores the keys of the refuges. The keeper – the memory of the legendary Tino Piacenza from Sant'Anna di Valdieri, who divided himself between the Bianco, Remondino and Morelli refuges, is still very much alive in the Gesso Valley – generally goes up to the refuge at weekends to ensure that the guests have the few basic necessities and to show his experience and great knowledge of the mountains. With the foundation of the Alpine Clubs, beginning in the mid-nineteenth century, the first refuges serving the mountaineers were created. These are the years in which the Alps take the form of a small unknown continent placed in the centre of ”civilized” Europe. The world at that time had by then been explored by length and breadth, therefore the attention of the pioneers turned further upwards: attracted by the abundance of unknown land, crowds of Italian, French, German, Swiss, American and British mountaineers passed through the Alps to climb mountains, baptise them and represent them on maps. In the race to the Alps, the bivouacs and refuges represented the “conquest of the night”, the precious opportunity to spend the hours between sunset and sunrise in places that just a few years before, were doubted if they could be reached in the light of day. In 1889 in the Maritime Alps, the construction of the “Barma refuge” began, near the Lac de la Fous, on the French side. Created under a large rock by mountaineers of Nice, it was a base for the climbs in the Gelas-Maledia-Clapier group. The National Congress of the Italian Alpine Club in 1896 recognized the need to enhance the Maritime Alps, still not very popular at the time, entrusting the task of building a new refuge to the Ligurian Section. In the particular it was intended to make the climb to the Argentera, the highest mountain on the sector (3297 metres), more accessible. After countless visits, the upper gias Monighet superiore was singled out, in the deep Rovina valley. The building, in honour of the promoting section, was named “Rifugio Genova”. Eighty years on the old Genova would be submerged by the waters of the artificial Chiotas basin and replaced by a new building created on the banks of the nearby Lago Brocan. In the following years, the Ligurians still increased the availability of bases in the Maritime Alps. In 1913 at the base of the Maledia, at 2650 metres in altitude, the doors of the Pagarì refuge opened, whose structures arrived directly from the Turin International Exposition of two years earlier. In 1921 the Bozano was built in the deep valley of Argentera and in 1925 the Questa was built in the deep Valasco valley. Starting from the period between the two wars, the Cuneo Section of the Alpine Club came on the scene and opened its first refuge in 1931: the Morelli-Buzzi, in the Lourousa valley and in the sixties, the Ellena-Soria, Remondino, Livio Bianco. It often happens that in the dim light of the lamps and over a glass of red wine, mutual respect and trust is created between the mountain dwelling keeper and the mountain enthusiasts, coming from all backgrounds and walks of life. With the nineties of last century, the refuges changed: the new regulations on a national and European level imposed this, but also the change in the needs of the public. Renovated and finally “according to the law”, the refuges became small hotels at high altitude, equipped with electricity, hot water, telephone… and today even with internet, web cam for weather forecasts and credit card systems to pay the bill. The managers have become professional experts in logistics and catering: hospitality at altitude has become serious business. Over time the identity and role of the refuge have changed so greatly: the old perception of the refuge as an isolated place, safely moored in the sea of the mountains, is by now a distant memory. Today the refuges and bivouacs of the Parco Alpi Marittime are among the favourite destinations of tourists who visit the protected area. From logistics bases to climb up to the peaks, these buildings have become a reference point for those wishing to unhurriedly enjoy the contact with mountain nature, taking the opportunity to surprise, against the backdrop of a sunrise or sunset, the animals immersed in their environment. Today, as yesterday, the refuge gives you the opportunity to spend the night, filling your eyes with the starry sky of the high altitudes, but in addition, it now offers visitors the opportunity to taste the local products, to attend concerts performed among the peaks and to take part in themed evenings. Whether it's a little or a lot, to get to a refuge you have to walk. The right amount of commitment and effort is needed to fully enjoy what we expect “up above”. On opening the door of the refuge with a mixture of relief and trepidation, there is the distinct feeling of being in a particular place, where the most basic rules of cohabitation come into play: respect for the work of the manager, sharing common space and time with other hikers, the pleasant and compulsory frugality, imposed by the place, the salutary knowledge that any hasty actions may have negative effects for the conservation of the fragile environment that surrounds the small building. You must move cautiously and lightly, both inside and outside the welcoming structure of the refuge. For the pleasure of reaching a comfortable destination, immersed in a unique environment, for the experience of spending a few hours in the presence of the Alpine nature without having to hurry back down to the valley, for the privilege of listening to music with the mountains as a sounding board, for the opportunities of meeting and exchanging among the people it offers, a stay in the refuge is therefore an experience able to leave a mark which goes beyond just the simple pleasure of fun and relaxation. ALTA VIA DEI RE trekking across the Parco delle Alpi Marittime A refuge, by definition, is a place in which you search for shelter and protection for the body but also, not infrequently, for the spirit. Medieval hospices responded to this dual function serving travellers and pilgrims engaged in crossing the Alps. Generally guarded by one or more monks, these properties stood close to the main Alpine passes, from the San Bernardo to the Monginevro, from the Maddalena to the Tenda and Finestra passes. The GTA stop off place stands in the heart of the Spa area, near to the Gesso stream and the nineteenth century hunting lodges that Victor Emanuel II had built. At the entrance to the stop off place is the bar Savoia. Outside it, an ideal place to restore your energy after the fatigue accumulated on the paths, some giant sequoias cast their shade. Their presence goes back to the era of the hunting King. Gta Stop Off Terme Balma Meris is located in the village of SantÅfAnna di Valdieri, exactly at the mouth of the Meris valley, the Alpine Lodge lies halfway between the high altitude Alpine refuges and the buildings of the lower valley. Balma Meris is the summer departure point for day trips, trekking, climbs and bouldering. In winter it is the ideal starting point for cross country skiing or snowshoe treks. Locanda alpina Balma Meris Hiking refuges Owned by the Park, it stands in Palanfré, in Valle Vermenagna, at the foot of an ancient banned beech wood that protects the village from avalanches. Open all year, it is on the GTA itinerary and is the departure base for hiking on foot, with snow shoes and with skis. Here you can taste a cuisine that has traditional local flavours and the delicious cheeses produced on the premises. L’Arbergh Once a primary school of the quiet and sunny hamlet of Trinità of Entracque, the inn, owned by the Park, is open in the summer season, during holiday periods and at weekends. It is a GTA stop off place and departure point of hiking itineraries with snow shoes and skis. In the welcoming dining room the Occitan cuisine can be tasted, based on products of the area. Locanda del Sorriso The hiking Refuge is situated at the centre of a handful of houses in San Giacomo, a name that evokes ancient pilgrimages along the Santiago road. The fascination of the place is strengthened by the presence of the historical royal hunting lodge, immersed in a centuries-old beech wood. An ideal base to depart for some of the most beautiful trips in the protected area. The structure, which offers only overnight stays, relies on the adjacent inn, Baita Monte Gelas, for dining. San Giacomo Bonetto family 25 from the beginning of June to mid September regional (at the Hotel Royal) +39 0171 97106 [email protected] - www.termedivaldieri.it C. di Valmiana 2922 m; C. Chiapous 2526 m; L. di Fremamorta 2380 m Cinzia Chiambretto 25 all year piedmontese + 39 339 1231056 [email protected] - www.balmameris.com Culture path Lo viòl di tàit; M. Bourel 2468 m; Laghi Sella 1882 m e 2329 m Parco naturale Alpi Marittime, Silvana Giordano 25 all year piedmontese +39 340 6973954 [email protected] - www.palanfre.it Nature path of the banned beech wood, La Via di Tèit culture path, Lago degli Alberghi 2038 m, Rocca d’Orel 2439 m Parco naturale Alpi Marittime, Carla Degioanni 38 summer, Christmas, Easter and weekends on booking piedmontese +39 0171 978388 [email protected] - www.locandadelsorriso.com Colle ovest del Sabbione 2328 m; Caire di Porcera 1818 m; Parco naturale Alpi Marittime, Gerbino family 21 from april to november piedmontese +39 0171 978704 [email protected] - www.bmgelas.com M. Aiera 2713 m; L. del Vei del Bouc 2054 m; C. del Carboné 2800 m Bivouacs The Mercantour refuges How to prepare and prepare yourself for a night in a refuge In a refuge you sleep in a dormitory or in collective rooms, bathrooms are shared and at a certain time the lights are switched off… it is therefore necessary to be prepared mentally to conditions that are far from those of daily life. Before departing At the refuges On arrival I introduce myself to the manager I am on time for meals I don't go up to the rooms with my boots on I respect other guests who are resting I fold the blankets before leaving I tell the refuge manager where IÅfm going I book a place at the refuge In the case of cancellation I quickly warn the manager I take a sleeping bag and a torch (blankets and a pillow are provided) I look at the weather forecast I get organized to arrive before 6 pm Cougourde Madone de Fenestre Nice (De Cessole) Valmasque Merveilles Fontanalbe Guiglia Varrone Gandolfo Costi-Falchero Barbero – Capanna sociale Sergio Groppo Baus Moncalieri by car from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (11 km) 62 (20) asphalt road FFCAM, Patrick Miraillet 1/6 - 30/9 +33 (0)4 93028319, +33 (0)4 93039102 [email protected] - www.chaletmadonedefenestre.ffcam.fr Pont du Countet 1690 m 80 (20) 550 m; 2 hours; mule track FFCAM, Christophe Fournier 1/6 - 30/9 +33 6 61975938 [email protected] - www.refugedenice.ffcam.fr Casterino-Peyrafica road, altitude 1700 m 52 (12) 550 m; 2 hours; mule track FFCAM, Michel Duranti 15/6 - 30/9 +33 (0)4 92319120 [email protected] - www.refugedevalmasque.ffcam.fr Lac de Mesches parking 1380 m 79 (20) 750 m; 3 hours; trail FFCAM, H. Putelat 15/6 - 30/9 +33 (0)4 93046464, +33 (0)4 93046922 [email protected] - www.refugedesmerveilles.ffcam.fr Casterino 1543 m 62 (0) 450 m; 1.30 hours; pista Sci Club di Nizza, Yvette Ferrier closed +33 (0)4 93 04 89 19 Arrucador Merolt-Revello family 11 1/6-30/9 and 1/12-15/4 regional and vegetarian cooking +39 348 2902263; +39 347 5441408 [email protected] - www.arrucador.it Rocca dell'Abisso 2755 m, Passo di Ciotto Mien 2274 Arrucador is a chalet with rooms to rent and restaurant at the foot of the Tenda Pass, which is among the most important historic crossing points in the Alps. The building is set in green pastures on the long distance GTA and Via Alpina hiking routes. The managers can also provide accommodation at the village nearby, Limonetto and transfers to the station at Limone and luggage transfer for those on longer crossings. Roaschia 850 m 12 900 m; 2.30 ore Municipality of Roaschia, tel. 3490028174 1/6 - 30/09 Balur – Bivouac with custodian To book a stay at a refuge online: www.sud.alpes-refuges.fr Gîte Boréon Route du Col de Salèse 248 32 Nicolas et Marine-Alizée Féraud 1/02-30/09 +33 (0)6 30 92 44 72 / +33 (0)4 93 03 27 27 [email protected] - www.giteduboreon.com Gîte Relais des Merveilles Bélvèdere 45 Jean-Paul Duhet 1/04-31/10 0033 (0)4 93 03 43 55 [email protected] - www.relaisdesmerveilles.com Gîte Sainte Marie Magdaleine Casterino 28 Paul Cervel 1/05-31/10 e 23/12-31/03 +33 (0)4 93 04 65 93 / +33 (0)6 89 12 15 82 www.casterino.com - [email protected]The Mercantour hiking refuges Ponte Porcera 1083 m (Trinità di Entracque) 9 1200 m; 3.45 hours Comune di Entracque always open Speranza www.diegoviada.com&areagrafica translation by www.europa92.org; printed by Tip. Jollygraf, Villanova M.vì - 9/2017 graphics by
Transcript
1368 m
1011 m
1400 m
1096 m
1250 m
2421 m
2235 m
1847 m
2280 m
1665 m
2468 m
2650 m
2710 m
2100 m
1905 m
2232 m
2233 m
2130 m
2018 m
1500 m
1530 m
1600 m
2275 m
1550 m
1780 m
17
1614
1513
18
19
20
21
22
23
12
24
25
26
upper Boréon parking 40 (7)
430 m; 1.30 hours; pathway
FFCAM, U. Putelat, C. Barcelo (winter) 1/6 - 31/10
Sant’Anna di Valdieri 1011 m 21450 m; 4 hoursPrivate always open
Lago della Rovina 1535 m (Entracque) 91100 m; 3.30 hoursCAI Ligurian Section always open
San Giacomo di Entracque 1250 m 121500 m; 4 hoursGiovane Montagna Moncalieri always open
Ponte della Vagliotta 1115 m (Sant’Anna di Valdieri) 10550 m; 1.45 hoursCAI Cuneo Section, keys: tel. 0171 67998 closed
Ponte della Vagliotta 1115 m (Sant’Anna di Valdieri) 91100 m; 3.30 hoursCAI Ligurian Section always open
Ponte della Vagliotta 1115 m (Sant’Anna di Valdieri) 12750 m; 2 hoursClub Alpino Accademico Italiano always open
Terme di Valdieri 1368 m 12950 m; 2.30 hoursCAI Cuneo Section always open
Gias delle Mosche 1591 m (Terme di Valdieri) 9850 m; 2.30 hoursCAI Ligurian Section always openpaths and refuges
of the Alpi Marittime and Mercantour
The names of the refuges tell, through the dedication to thedeceased protagonists, the first seasons of Liguria and Cuneoin conquering the Maritime Alps. Almost no-one is missing:there is Meo Figari, the mountaineer without pitons, whoarrived in the Maritime Alps, departing from the sea of Genova;his climbing partner Emilio Questa, together with LorenzoBozano, underwent 13 hours travel from the coast to reachthe Gesso Valley; then there is Federico Federici, who climbedthe mountains and died in the sea during the Second WorldWar and Ettore Marchesini, who left his companions of thesection, his library and the funds to build the refuge; there isCostanzo Morelli, killed by a blizzard at the foot of the Monvisoand Colonel Alvaro Buzzi, who didn't manage to completelysee the refuge he had contributed to renovating; Edoardo“Dado” Soria and Gianni Ellena joined in memory, also appear,who were two of the greatest mountaineering exponents fromCuneo in the years between the two wars; there is also theircompanion Dante Livio Bianco, mountaineer and partisan;
Franco Remondino, sub lieutenant of the Alpine troops andpromising young mountaineer, who died during a climb atthe age of 21, and Roberto Barbero, who fell while crossingthe Catena delle Guide.
The bivouacs complete the memory, moderately evoking tothe visitors today of the absence of who, by accident or forpassion, sometimes for both reasons, has seen his name linkedforever to these mountains.Originally, the refuges were simple and basic: four walls witha plank to sleep on, a table and some chairs. Therefore littlemore than an isolated cabin in the mountains, base for a“chosen” few dedicated to climbing the main peaks of theAlps. In time the shelters have been modified and expandedto accommodate the ever growing public of mountainenthusiasts. And so a kitchenette, bunk bends, wool blanketsand gas light appear.The role of “keeper” came about, a person who lives in oneof the towns of the valley bottom and stores the keys of therefuges. The keeper – the memory of the legendary TinoPiacenza from Sant'Anna di Valdieri, who divided himselfbetween the Bianco, Remondino and Morelli refuges, is stillvery much alive in the Gesso Valley – generally goes up to therefuge at weekends to ensure that the guests have the fewbasic necessities and to show his experience and greatknowledge of the mountains.
With the foundation of the Alpine Clubs, beginning in themid-nineteenth century, the first refuges serving themountaineers were created. These are the years in which theAlps take the form of a small unknown continent placed inthe centre of ”civilized” Europe. The world at that time hadby then been explored by length and breadth, therefore theattention of the pioneers turned further upwards: attractedby the abundance of unknown land, crowds of Italian, French,German, Swiss, American and British mountaineers passedthrough the Alps to climb mountains, baptise them andrepresent them on maps. In the race to the Alps, the bivouacsand refuges represented the “conquest of the night”, theprecious opportunity to spend the hours between sunset andsunrise in places that just a few years before, were doubtedif they could be reached in the light of day.In 1889 in the Maritime Alps, the construction of the “Barmarefuge” began, near the Lac de la Fous, on the French side.Created under a large rock by mountaineers of Nice, it wasa base for the climbs in the Gelas-Maledia-Clapier group.
The National Congress of the Italian Alpine Club in 1896recognized the need to enhance the Maritime Alps, still notvery popular at the time, entrusting the task of building a newrefuge to the Ligurian Section. In the particular it was intendedto make the climb to the Argentera, the highest mountain onthe sector (3297 metres), more accessible. After countlessvisits, the upper gias Monighet superiore was singled out, inthe deep Rovina valley. The building, in honour of the promotingsection, was named “Rifugio Genova”. Eighty years on theold Genova would be submerged by the waters of the artificialChiotas basin and replaced by a new building created on thebanks of the nearby Lago Brocan.
In the following years, the Ligurians still increased the availabilityof bases in the Maritime Alps. In 1913 at the base of theMaledia, at 2650 metres in altitude, the doors of the Pagarìrefuge opened, whose structures arrived directly from the TurinInternational Exposition of two years earlier. In 1921 theBozano was built in the deep valley of Argentera and in 1925the Questa was built in the deep Valasco valley.Starting from the period between the two wars, the CuneoSection of the Alpine Club came on the scene and opened itsfirst refuge in 1931: the Morelli-Buzzi, in the Lourousa valleyand in the sixties, the Ellena-Soria, Remondino, Livio Bianco.
It often happens that in the dim light of the lamps and overa glass of red wine, mutual respect and trust is created betweenthe mountain dwelling keeper and the mountain enthusiasts,coming from all backgrounds and walks of life.
With the nineties of last century, the refuges changed: thenew regulations on a national and European level imposedthis, but also the change in the needs of the public. Renovatedand finally “according to the law”, the refuges became smallhotels at high altitude, equipped with electricity, hot water,telephone… and today even with internet, web cam forweather forecasts and credit card systems to pay the bill.The managers have become professional experts in logisticsand catering: hospitality at altitude has become seriousbusiness. Over time the identity and role of the refuge havechanged so greatly: the old perception of the refuge as anisolated place, safely moored in the sea of the mountains, isby now a distant memory. Today the refuges and bivouacs ofthe Parco Alpi Marittime are among the favourite destinationsof tourists who visit the protected area.
From logistics bases to climb up to the peaks, these buildingshave become a reference point for those wishing to unhurriedlyenjoy the contact with mountain nature, taking the opportunityto surprise, against the backdrop of a sunrise or sunset, theanimals immersed in their environment. Today, as yesterday,the refuge gives you the opportunity to spend the night, fillingyour eyes with the starry sky of the high altitudes, but inaddition, it now offers visitors the opportunity to taste thelocal products, to attend concerts performed among the peaksand to take part in themed evenings.
Whether it's a little or a lot, to get to a refuge you have towalk. The right amount of commitment and effort is neededto fully enjoy what we expect “up above”. On opening thedoor of the refuge with a mixture of relief and trepidation,there is the distinct feeling of being in a particular place,where the most basic rules of cohabitation come into play:respect for the work of the manager, sharing common spaceand time with other hikers, the pleasant and compulsoryfrugality, imposed by the place, the salutary knowledge thatany hasty actions may have negative effects for the conservationof the fragile environment that surrounds the small building.You must move cautiously and lightly, both inside and outsidethe welcoming structure of the refuge.For the pleasure of reaching a comfortable destination,immersed in a unique environment, for the experience ofspending a few hours in the presence of the Alpine naturewithout having to hurry back down to the valley, for theprivilege of listening to music with the mountains as a soundingboard, for the opportunities of meeting and exchanging amongthe people it offers, a stay in the refuge is therefore anexperience able to leave a mark which goes beyond just thesimple pleasure of fun and relaxation.
ALTA VIA DEI REtrekking across the Parco delle Alpi Marittime
A refuge, by definition, is a place in whichyou search for shelter and protection forthe body but also, not infrequently, forthe spirit. Medieval hospices respondedto this dual function serving travellers andpilgrims engaged in crossing the Alps.Generally guarded by one or more monks,these properties stood close to the mainAlpine passes, from the San Bernardo tothe Monginevro, from the Maddalena tothe Tenda and Finestra passes.
The GTA stop off place stands in the heart of the Spa area, near to the Gesso streamand the nineteenth century hunting lodges that Victor Emanuel II had built. At theentrance to the stop off place is the bar Savoia. Outside it, an ideal place to restoreyour energy after the fatigue accumulated on the paths, some giant sequoias casttheir shade. Their presence goes back to the era of the hunting King.
Gta Stop Off Terme
Balma Meris is located in the village of SantÅfAnna di Valdieri, exactly at themouth of the Meris valley, the Alpine Lodge lies halfway between the highaltitude Alpine refuges and the buildings of the lower valley. Balma Meris isthe summer departure point for day trips, trekking, climbs and bouldering. Inwinter it is the ideal starting point for cross country skiing or snowshoe treks.
Locanda alpina Balma Meris
Hiking refuges
Owned by the Park, it stands in Palanfré, in Valle Vermenagna, at the foot of anancient banned beech wood that protects the village from avalanches. Open allyear, it is on the GTA itinerary and is the departure base for hiking on foot, withsnow shoes and with skis. Here you can taste a cuisine that has traditional localflavours and the delicious cheeses produced on the premises.
L’Arbergh
Once a primary school of the quiet and sunny hamlet of Trinità of Entracque, theinn, owned by the Park, is open in the summer season, during holiday periods andat weekends. It is a GTA stop off place and departure point of hiking itineraries withsnow shoes and skis. In the welcoming dining room the Occitan cuisine can betasted, based on products of the area.
Locanda del Sorriso
The hiking Refuge is situated at the centre of a handful of houses in San Giacomo, a name thatevokes ancient pilgrimages along the Santiago road. The fascination of the place is strengthenedby the presence of the historical royal hunting lodge, immersed in a centuries-old beech wood.An ideal base to depart for some of the most beautiful trips in the protected area. The structure,which offers only overnight stays, relies on the adjacent inn, Baita Monte Gelas, for dining.
M. Aiera 2713 m; L. del Vei del Bouc 2054 m; C. del Carboné 2800 m
Bivouacs The Mercantour refuges
How to prepare and prepare yourselffor a night in a refugeIn a refuge you sleep in a dormitory or in collective rooms,bathrooms are shared and at a certain time the lights are switchedoff… it is therefore necessary to be prepared mentally to conditionsthat are far from those of daily life.
Before departing
At the refuges
On arrival I introduce myself to the managerI am on time for mealsI don't go up to the rooms with my boots onI respect other guests who are restingI fold the blankets before leavingI tell the refuge manager where IÅfm going
I book a place at the refugeIn the case of cancellation I quickly warn the managerI take a sleeping bag and a torch(blankets and a pillow are provided)I look at the weather forecastI get organized to arrive before 6 pm
Rocca dell'Abisso 2755 m, Passo di Ciotto Mien 2274
Arrucador is a chalet with rooms to rent and restaurant at the foot of the Tenda Pass,which is among the most important historic crossing points in the Alps. The buildingis set in green pastures on the long distance GTA and Via Alpina hiking routes. Themanagers can also provide accommodation at the village nearby, Limonetto andtransfers to the station at Limone and luggage transfer for those on longer crossings.
Roaschia 850 m 12900 m; 2.30 oreMunicipality of Roaschia, tel. 3490028174 1/6 - 30/09
Balur – Bivouac with custodian
To book a stay at a refuge online: www.sud.alpes-refuges.fr
Ponte Porcera 1083 m (Trinità di Entracque) 91200 m; 3.45 hours
Comune di Entracque always open
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ROASCHIA
Monte Testa
Rocca la Paur
2972
Cima Valrossa Nord
PassoValletta
Lago Sopranodella Sella
23
16
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L. Malinvern
Lago Sottano
Lago Sottanodella Sella
Lago Sopranod. Valletta
L. de Paur
L. dellaRovina
Laghi diFremamorta
L. delle Portette
L. delClaus
Laghi diValscura
L. de Tavels
L. Negre
L. del Chiotas
L. Mercantour
L. Brocan
L. dell’Agnel
L. Gelato
L. Balaur
Fontana
L. della Roccia
L. Carboné
L. del Vei del Bouc
Laghidel Frisson
Laghi diPeirafica
L. della Vacca
L. della Maura
Lago della Piastra
1535
L. diNasta
Madonnadel Colletto
Tetti dei Fré
BorghignonGias Fontanile
Gias delPrato
Tetti Babau
Palazzine Reali
Tetti Gaina
Tetti Arpetta
Ponte RossoTetti Rim
S. Giovanni
S. Rocco
i Doni
Tetti Porcera
Tetti Traversa
Tetti d’Ambrin
Ponte delle Rovine
GiasVagliotta
Termedi Valdieri
Tetti Niot
S. Giovanni
Segnassa
Gias delleMosche
Gias della Casa
T. Tanasso
Reale Casa di Caccia
Ponte del Suffiet
Gias d’Ischietto
Gias Créusasoprano
Gias dellaCulatta
Gias Colomb
Gias del Rasur
Gias dellaCuccetta
RIF. GENOVA-FIGARIRIF. REGINAELENA
RIF. REMONDINO
RIF. BOZANO
RIF. FEDERICI MARCHESINI
RIF. QUESTA
RIF. D.L. BIANCO
Tetti Luiset
RIF. MALINVERN
Piano del ValascoRIF. MORELLI
BIV.GUIGLIA
San Giacomo
Pianod. Casa
Gias Valera sott.
S. Annadi Valdieri
VALDIERI
ENTRACQUE VERNANTE
AISONE
Pinet
S.Bernardo
Tetti Baut
Colletto
S. Lucia
S.Lorenzo
Trinità
Palanfré
Esterate
+
Cima Pissousa1673
+1506
M. Corno
893
848+
M. Merqua
2148
+Punta Morionera
2059
+M. Bourel
2468) (
Colle diMarchiana
2276
+M. Ventabren
2611
+Cima Gorgia Cagna
2716
+Gias Vei
2420
+Testa Rimà
2506
+Testa delle Novelle
2603
+
+M. Matto
3097
1910
+Rocca Arcoulon
2620
+M. Ray
2318
+
+
M. la Croce
1937
M. Bussaia
2451
+Rocca d’Orel
2394
+M. Pianard
2306
+Caire dell’Uia
1459
1096
+
+ +
Cima del Lausetto
2687
1855
+ Cima dellaVagliotta
2548Asta Sottana2850
+Asta Soprana
2970
+
+
+2909
Cima Centraledi Valrossa
2764
Cima Valrossa Sud
2797
+T.ta Malivern
2939
+Testa del Claus2889
+Testa delle Portette
2821
+Testa di Bresses
2830
2388
) ( Passo del Prefouns
2620
) (
Collettodi Valasco
2429
+Punta S. Giovanni
2325
+Punta Stella
2567
+C. Argentera
3297
) (Colle Chiapous
2526
+la Madre di Dio
2800
2453
2430
+M. Barra
2071
+M. Aiera
2713
+Punta della Rua
2779
+Punta del Baus
2749
+Punta Casasco
1941
+
) (
M. Garbella
2306
Colle dellaGarbella
+M. Ciotto Mien
2378
+M. del Frisson
2637
Rocca dell’Abisso+
2755
+M. Colombo
2261
+Cima Plisser
2318+M. Carboné
2873
+Punta Savina
2821+
Punta Ciamberline
27922015
Colle di Fenestrelle) (2463
+Cima dell’Agnel
2927
+
+
Cima diBrocan 3054
+
Cima diMercantour
2775
Cima del Baus3067
+Cima di Pagarì
2706
) (Colle Ciriegia
2551
+Cima diFremamorta
2731
+Punta Giegn
2903
+M. Caval
2393
+M. Pelago
2768
+Cima Cougourda2921
+C. Gelàs
3143
+Punta della Siula
2672
2650
) (Passo del Pagarì
2819
+Cima dell’Agnel
2775
+2310
Rocce dell’Asino
+Cima dellaScandeiera
2645
) (
2328
+Cima del Sabbione
2610
+M. Clapier
3045
790
+Cima Saben
1670
+M. la Piastra
1832
+Cima Cialancia
1885+il Chiot
1698
1834
2351
2471) (
Colle diFremamorta
) (
) (Colledell’Arpione
1746
1011
1840
) ( Bassa delDruos
) ( CollettoValscura
) (Colle di
Valmiana
1670
1368
1213
1379
ColleMercantour
) (
RISERVA NATURALEDI ROCCA SAN GIOVANNI–SABEN
) (
Passo dellaMena2201
2031
L.dell'Oro
L. Bianco
L. Long
L. VertL. de Fenestre
L. Noir
L. duBasto
Lac LongSupérieur
1290 9602873
1300
1500
Col deFenestre
+
Col du Sabion
) (
Col de Salèse
Mont Archas+
Le Boréon
+Cime de Piagu
+
SAINT-MARTIN-VÉSUBIE
Cime de La Palu
Mont LapasséTête de Cinant
Cime de La Vallette de Prals
++
+
La Colmiane
Le Conquet
Cime de Colmiane
Le Caïre Gros
Mont Sainte-Marie
Mont Néglier
Mont du Grand Capelet
Cime des Verrairiers
Cime du Diable
Cime de Montjoia
Mont Bégo+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
) (
V a l d e b l o r e
CUNEO
L.della Valletta Piccola
L. Bianco
Mont Ponset
Col Saint Martin
Saint Dalmas
Berthemont-les-Bains
L. della Siula
NICE BELVEDERE ST. D
ALM
AS-
DE-
TEN
DE
NIC
E
Colle di Brocan
) (
) (
Pas du Mont Colomb
) (Pas desLadres
) (
Baisse du Basto
) ( Baisse deValauretta
) (
Baisse de Fontanalba
ISO
LA 2
000
MO
LLIE
RES
) (
Colle del Vei del Bouc
) (
RIF. del VALASCO
6 km
VIN
AD
IO
2922
1847
2280
2235
2421
FESTIONA3 km
1764
RISERVA NATURALEDELLE GROTTEDEL BANDITO
+Monte Sapè
1867
+1952
+Rocce Scregna
1848
Tetto Chiotti
San Bernardo
1780
CUNEO
LIM
ON
E P.
te
T.G
es so
de l l aVa l l e
t ta
T.G
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de
lla
Bar
ra
T.Bousse t
V.G
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e
Montête d nt
(
Mari
VA
LL E
GE
SS
O
Saint-Grat
Baus de La Frema
REF. DE COUGOURDE
2090
1903REF. DE NICE
2232REF. DE VALMASQUE2221
2111 REF. DESMERVEILLES
REF. DEFONTANALBA
2018
RIF. ELLENA SORIA1840
BIV. VARRONE
CAP. BARBERO
BIV. GANDOLFO
BIV. COSTI
BIV. BAUS
Casterino
BIV. MONCALIERI2710
REF. DE LA MADONEDE FENESTRE
BIV. GROPPO
BIV. BALUR
Vallone Desertetto
V.
desM
erv
eil
les
V.
Go
r do
l asq
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V. d e l a M i n i è r e
V. d e F o n t a n a l b a
Va l lo n e d i Lo u r o u s a
V.ne
della
Valle
tta
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lone
dell
aV
alle
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Vallone
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a
Serr
ade
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uset
to
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Vallone del Valasco
V.ne
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V.nedel
Sabb
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V. d e S a l è s e
V.
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V. n e M a d o n e d e F e n e s t r e
Costa
Spreciol
C.sta dell’Arp
P
n
t
0
as
M. Aie
VA
2275
1.30
2.15
2
1.30
3
2
2.15
1.45
0.45
0.30
2.45
2
3.30
3.30
1.15
1.45
3
2
1.15
1.30
2
1.30
2.30
3.30
2
2
2.45
2
2.30
2.30
3.303.30
0.45
1
3.45
4
2.45
2.153.
45 32.30 2
33.45
23.30
652.30
3.30
2
1.30
1
1.303.4
5
3.45
1.30
121.45
1.15 1
2.15
2.45
2.30
2.30
3 33
2.30
23.152.45 20.4
5
0.30
1.152
1.30
2.15
2.30 2
1.1512
2.30
2.302
22
21.15
11.302.1
5
1.45
Colle
Fines
tra
Biv.
Mon
calie
ri
Rif. P
agar
ì
Pass
o
della
Men
a
Palan
fré
Colle d
ella
Garbe
lla
Trinit
à di
Entra
cque
Pont
e Rov
ina
San
Giacom
o
Gias So
tt.
Vej B
ouc
Rif. S
oria
Colle d
i Fen
estre
lle
Rif. G
enov
a
Pian
della
Cas
a
Rif. Q
uesta
Rif. M
alinv
ern
Collet
to Va
lscur
a
Colle d
i Bro
can
Biv.
Guiglia
Rif. R
emon
dino
Gias d
elle
Mos
che
Biv.
Varro
ne
Biv.
Baus
Rif. M
orell
i
Cap. B
arbe
ro
Biv.
Costi
Rif. d
el Va
lasco
Term
e di
Valdi
eri
Rif. D
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ianco
S. Ann
a di
Valdi
eri
Pass
o
Valle
tta
Colle d
i
Valm
iana
Rif. B
ozan
o
Ref. d
e
Cesso
le
(Nice
)
Ref. d
e
Valm
asqu
e
Ref. M
adon
e
Fene
tre
Pont
e
Vagli
otta
Lago
dell
a Ro
vina
Tetti
Niot
Biv.
Gando
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Ref. d
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Cougo
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Ref. d
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Mer
veille
s
Lagh
i
Valro
ssa
Ref. d
e
Font
analb
a
2.30
3.30
3
2.15
1.301.45
2
1.45
Bass
a
del D
ruos
1.15
1.45
5.15
3.45
Aisone
Isola
2000
0.20
0.15
Rif. R
egina
Elen
a
3 3
3
3
2.45
2.15
1.15 13.15
3
3.15
2.45
2.15
2.45
33
Lac d
es M
esch
es
Caste
rino
1.10
1.30
Boré
on
Limon
etto
Pass
o
Ciotto
Mien
2.30 2
2.152.45
2650 m
1840 m
2015 m
2453 m
2351 m
1834 m 1839 m
1910 m
2388 m
1764 m
2430 m
Arruca
dor
0.45
0,30
1.45
1.45
GÎTE DES MERVEILLES
GÎTE DE BORÉON
GÎTE S. M. MAGDALEINE
BIV. SPERANZA
1
2
3
4
10
11
9
8
6
7
5
24
25
26
DepartureHeight difference; ascent time; itinerary typeOwner; managerOpening periodBeds (beds in winter)CuisineTelephone numberE-mail address; web siteMain climbsCredit cards acceptedCredit cards not accepted
Federici-Marchesini al Pagarì
Pagarì, with its 2650 metres in altitude and the 5 hour walk to reach it, offers thehiker the pleasure and satisfaction of things hard-earned. Within its walls it is pleasantto enjoy the atmosphere of the refuge “d'antan” and the manager's welcome, whowill reveal every secret of these mountains. Among the many precious recommendationsis the one to suggest that you get up at dawn to catch the red reflection of the auroraon the incredible wall of the Maledia, images that you will take back down to thevalley, captured by camera and indelibly printed in your memory.
Ellena-Soria
Each stone of the itinerary towards Ellena-Soria could tell a story about the pilgrims,Popes, Kings, armies, smugglers and animals laden with salt and fabrics, that werebusy in crossing the Alps by the colle di Finestra. A much frequented route in theMiddle Ages to already offer hospice for the travellers. Whoever goes over thesemounts today finds a modern and particularly welcoming refuge along the way.
The Genova Refuge stands at the foot of the eastern side of the massif of Argenteraand is surrounded by the blue waters of the Brocan and Chiotas lakes. The latter,an artificial basin is fed by one of the largest hydroelectric power stations in Europe.The wonderful environment, the frequent sightings of chamois and ibex, the opportunityto observe the saxifrage of Argentera – the most precious botanical endemism ofthe Park – are all elements of irresistible attraction, especially for families.
Genova-Figari
In the Southern Alps, there is not one landscape that can be compared for majestyand grandeur to the one of the western side of Argentera and Corno Stella thattowers over the refuge.The new Bozano, built near the old historic building in which the mountaineeringpioneers of the Maritime Alps stayed, was built on a ship shaped base in the middleof great boulders that the architect interpreted as waves of a stormy sea.
Lorenzo Bozano
You climb up to the refuge on a mule track of the ancient Royal Hunting Reservethat lazily snakes among centuries old larch trees. Coming out of the wood, youcome across new sights every step you take: the romantic Lagarot di Lourousa, thesteep side of Corno Stella, the strange head of the ”Cigar”. At the refuge you willstand open-mouthed in front of the thousand metres of vertiginous rocks of MonteStella, while towards the valley, framed by the profile of a typical glacial valley, MonteMatto rises, the castle of the highest peaks, standing at three thousand metres.
Morelli-Buzzi
Leaning against the mountain to defend itself from the great avalanche that comesdown in the spring from the deep valley of Balma Ghiliè, is, without a doubt, theeasiest refuge to reach inside the Park. In the early morning it is often surroundedby chamois. The building, simple and essential, is managed with passion and cheerfulnessby the voluntary partners of the National Alpine Troops Association in Genova.
Regina Elena
If your looking for a corner of wild nature that is easy to reach, the deep Rio FreddoValley, home to the Malinvern refuge is the place for you. A walk alongside the river,always full of water, as well as a short walk in the shade of the majestic conifersand in the sun of the grasslands around are not to be missed. The fascinatinglandscape and the impressive northern side of the Malinvern dominate the scene,where the snows stay until late summer.
Malinvern-City of Ceva
It is a quiet and romantic spot where the refuge stands: sunk in a cushion of grassdotted with larch trees and rhododendrons overlooking the flat expanse of the Lagosottano della Sella.Queen Elena of Montenegro, wife of Vittorio Emanuele III, came right up to hereto fish trout but, it is said, above all to find tranquillity and be carefree. Since thenthe atmosphere of the place has not changed.
Dante Livio Bianco
Last of the old style refuges left in the Park, the Questa is particularly appreciated bythose who want to taste the mountains without too much comfort. Reached by militarymule tracks, authentic works of art by the military engineering, is found a stones throwaway from France and along the line of the historic “Alpine Wall”. From the refuge,overlooking the perfect blue circle of the Lago delle Portette, the panorama that youtake in is a summary of the Maritime Alps: your eyes embrace the massif of Mattoand Argentera, the bold Cresta Savoia and the green Pian del Valasco.
Emilio Questa
Valasco is an oasis of peace that like magic, opens out at the bottom of an imperviousdeep valley, dug into the sharp sides of Monte Matto and the Rocca di San Giovanni.It is the core of the Park and on this wide pasture plain, Vittorio Emanuele II hada hunting lodge built in the mid-nineteenth century, a singular square “fort” withbattlemented towers. Today this historic building has been renovated and transformedinto a refuge to offer everyone a stay “fit for a King”.
Valasco, royal hunting lodge
Visible from the start of the path, you get nearer to the refuge step by step alongan intense and spectacular itinerary: high up some parts of the three thousandmetres of the south-western Alps stand out, among which, Argentera, the “roof”of the Maritime Alps. From the Remondino refuge where nearby, ibex, chamois andstoats can be frequently spotted, the eye is captured to the west by the rocky cragthat culminates in the peaks of Fremamorta, Bresses and Tablasses.
Franco Remondino
Terme di Valdieri 1390 m 26 (10)
1000 m; 3.15 hours; trail and mule track, by the Valscura Lakes also by Mtb
M. Matto 3097 m, R.ca di Valmiana 3006 m, R.ca della Paur 2972 m,
T.ta Sud di Bresses 2820 m, T.ta Malinvern 2939 m
legend
Alta Via dei Re
Variations of the Alta Via dei Re
Via Alpina
Path
Traces of the trail
Paved road
Dirt road
Road closed to transit
State border
Boundary of the Park
Headquarters or Park visitor Centre
Refuge
Hiking refuge
Bivouac
State border
Car parkingRefugesVia Alpina
time map
Alta Via dei ReThe Kings' High Path (Alta Via dei Re) crosses the Park touchingmost of the unmissable sites in Alpi Marittime, panoramic views,abundant wildlife, unforgettable lakes. «Royal», places preciselybecause they are in some way linked to the house of Savoy, frequentvisitors to the area in the last century. We can see signs of theirpresence on the landscape in their residences, hunting hides,monuments and most of all the dense network of roads, mule tracksand paths that the High Path covers from refuge to refuge.
The route is a higher alternative to the easier GTA route, and if youfollow the whole route it will take you over some exposed, unmarkedstretches (Passo di Brocan and Passaggio dei Ghiacciai) so youshould approach it with the right equipment and physically prepared.
To book a stay at a refuge online: www.insitetours.eu
Sant’Anna di Valdieri D. L. Bianco Refuge«W la regina (Long live the Queen)»: you can't miss this historic inscription in boldletters as you leave Sant’Anna at the start of the Kings' High Path. This is the paththe hunter kings of the House of Savoy took when setting off on their adventurouschamois hunts or for simple walks. Queen Elena would have walked passed thisslogan, dedicated to her, to go fishing trout in the Sella lake. The path is quite steepinitially, but later it levels out and there is more of a view, it crosses an open grassybasin where you are equally likely to see herds of goats or chamois, flocks of sheepor horses, until you come out at the lake side, near the refuge.
950 m; 3 hrs; Level of difficulty: E (escursionistico/normal hiking)
D. L. Bianco Refuge Valasco Refuge, royal hunting lodgeFrom the refuge the path gains height through the rocky bastions smoothed by ancientglaciers, behind these the Upper Sella lake lies hidden. The king didn't walk to theshooting hides, he rode on horseback. So we are left with this mule track, it is stillin perfect condition with a regular gradient leading up to the panoramic Colle diValmiana. After a long descent you reach Vittorio Emanuele II's hunting lodge builton the Valasco plain in the nineteenth century.
1050 m; 1150 m; 6.30 hrs; Level of difficulty: E (escursionistico/normal hiking)
Valasco Refuge, royal hunting lodge F. Remondino RefugeLeaving the pastures of the Valasco plain behind, the path climbs up the Val Morta twistingthrough ancient larches. Along a spectacular paved military road which crosses the Collettodel Valasco you reach a raised plateau, home to the Fremamorta lakes. After skirting aroundthe lower and middle lakes heading towards the Colle di Fremamorta, a long descent takesyou down to the Piano della Casa del Re. From here you climb to Remondino refuge, wherethe vista opens out, offering one of the most spectacular views in the Maritime Alps.
1400 m; 700 m; 7 hrs; Level of difficulty: E (escursionistico/normal hiking)
Franco Remondino Refuge Genova RefugeFrom the refuge, which is a real eagle's nest at the foot of Argentera, you climb upamong the 3000 m peaks to cross the Brocan Pass which looks over the upper Rovinavalley. The walk down, like part of the climb is on a rough path. It goes by quickly witha stupendous view of Agnel, the Brocan and Chiotas lakes, and down to the plains.
450 m; 800 m; 3.30 hrs; Level of difficulty: EE (escursionisti esperti/experienced hikers)
Genova Refuge Ellena-Soria RefugeAfter walking around the edge of Chiotas lake, you climb through a shady vale,undisputed realm of ibex and chamois, leading to Colle di Fenestrelle. Here in all itsimposing might appears the Gelas group, its glaciers reflecting in the still waters ofa tiny lake. This view of the southernmost glaciers in the Alps accompanies you downto your destination.
450 m; 700 m; 4 hrs; Level of difficulty: E (escursionistico/normal hiking)
Ellena-Soria Refuge Federici Marchesini al Pagarì RefugeThe mule track climbs through pastures and rocks to the edge of the northern glacierof Gelas and the Pera de Fener a historic royal hunting hide. A faint track, often coveredin snow late into the season, crosses the moraine leading to a ledge which brings youup to a pass, the Passaggio dei Ghiacciai, which looks down on the Agnel lakes, fromthese a long walk over a faint path brings you to Pagarì.
1200 m; 400 m; 6 hrs; Level of difficulty: EE (escursionisti esperti/experienced hikers)
Federici Marchesini al Pagarì Refuge San Giacomo di EntracqueIt is a good idea to set off early from this high altitude hut to enjoy the fiery dawn lighton the North-East face of Maledia. Through a long series of switchbacks you dropdown comfortably on this ancient salt route engineered in the fifteenth century by thelegendary merchant Paganino dal Pozzo. The path eventually leads to San Giacomo,where a noteworthy royal hunting lodge stands amid monumental beech trees.
1450 m; 50 m; 4 hrs; Level of difficulty: E (escursionistico/normal hiking)
Alternatives
D.L. Bianco Refuge Emilio Questa RefugeFrom the refuge climb to the Upper Sella lake and then to the Colle della Valletta onthe Gesso-Stura watershed. One of the prettiest parts of the high path starts here. Amule track weaving through spectacular views and lakes to a hunting hide. Over arough path you cross the Colletto est della Paur to drop down to the lakes in Valrossaand the mule track that leads to Valscura lake. You come to the refuge via anextraordinary military road, which in many stretches is raised and paved.
1150 m; 700 m; 7.30 hrs; Level of difficulty: EE (experienced hikers)
Emilio Questa Refuge Franco Remondino RefugeFrom the refuge cross the the upper part of the Valasco valley to Val Morta to meetup with the route rising from the Royal Hunting Lodge Refuge (see the third stage).
1400 m; 700 m; 7 hrs; Level of difficulty: E (escursionistico/normal hiking)
Valasco Refuge, royal hunting lodge Morelli-Buzzi RefugeFrom the refuge take the dirt road that cuts through the vast Valasco plain leadingdown to Terme di Valdieri; the spa with its grand hotel and Bela Rosìn's chalet, thatVittorio Emanuele II had built, it is said, to pass his nights of love in peace. The climbto Morelli is along a good winding path weaving its way through ancient larches. Whenthe trees finally part to expose the view, it is one of prettiest in the Maritime Alps: thenorth face of Corno Stella and the breathtaking ice slide which is the Lourousa gully.
1000 m; 400 m; 4 hrs; Level of difficulty: E (escursionistico/normal hiking)
Morelli-Buzzi Refuge Genova RefugeThe mule track crosses enormous grey or reddish blocks of stone to the Colle delChiapous. Throughout the climb Monte Stella towers over you with its thousand metrewall. On the other side of the pass the route down is south-east facing and almost“mediterranean”, the smell of thyme in the air with every step and below your bootsthe enormous expanse of the Chiotas reservoir.
200 m; 550 m; 2.30 hrs; Level of difficulty: E (escursionistico/normal hiking)
There is a bus service from Cuneo to Sant’Anna di Valdieri (timetable: www.benese.it).To return to your starting place you can book a taxi: tel. +39 335 6531024.
