This leaflet was in collaboration between Parco naturale delle Alpi
Marittime and Parc national du Mercantour. These two crossborder protected areas have been twinned since 1987 and together
were awarded the European Diploma for the environment. The
area protected by the two parks covers about one hundred thousand
hectares and is remarkable for its strong cultural identity and hight
level of biodiversity: the parks protect and enhance these elemenents
throught study programmes and safeguards, inspired by the
principles of the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism.
Parks without frontiers
Parc national du Mercantour
23, rue d’Italie BP 1316
06000 - Nice - cedex 1
Tel. +33 04 93167888
Fax +33 04 93887905
www.mercantour.eu
Parco naturale delle Alpi Marittime
Piazza regina Elena 30
12010 - Valdieri
Tel. +39 0171 97397
Fax +39 0171 97542
[email protected]
www.parcoalpimarittime.it
graphic by
Réalisé avec le concours financier du
Programme Alcotra 2007-2013 "Ensemble par-delà les frontières"
stampa: Tip. Jollygraf, Villanova M.vì - 2/2015
Realizzato con il contributo finanziario
del Programma Alcotra 2007-2013 "Insieme oltre i confini"
translation by www.europa92.org;
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 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;
Hiking refuges
Arrucador
www.diegoviada.com&areagrafica
Partner di progetto
Partenaires du projet
Cofinanziatori di progetto
Cofinanceurs du projet
Fondo europeo di sviluppo regionale
Fonds européen de développement régional
Programma Alcotra 2007-2013
Insieme oltre i confini
Programme Alcotra 2007-2013
Ensemble par-delà les frontières
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.
paths and refuges
of the Alpi Marittime and Mercantour
ALTA VIA DEI RE
trekking across the Parco delle Alpi Marittime
1500 m
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.
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.
Arrucador is open in winter too for ski tourers or hikers with snow shoes.
Merolt-Revello family
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
13
11
1400 m
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.
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
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.
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.
Locanda del Sorriso
14
1096 m
Locanda alpina Balma Meris
16
1011 m
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.
L’Arbergh
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.
12
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.
Bivouacs
2710 m
12
always open
2650 m
Baus
Lago della Rovina 1535 m (Entracque)
1100 m; 3.30 hours
CAI Ligurian Section
2468 m
2
always open
1665 m
Ponte della Vagliotta 1115 m (Sant’Anna di Valdieri)
550 m; 1.45 hours
CAI Cuneo Section, keys: tel. 0171 67998 closed
Costi-Falchero
Gandolfo
9
1250 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 Bouc2054 m; C. del Carboné 2800 m
Cougourde
18
upper Boréon parking
430 m; 1.30 hours; pathway
CAF Nice Mercantour, U. Putelat
+ 33 (0)9 78233159, + 33 (0)6 18540243
www.cafresa.org
2100 m
40 (7)
15/6 – 30/9
Varrone
12
19
by car from Saint-Martin-Vésubie (11 km)
asphalt road
CAF Nice Mercantour, Patrick Miraillet
+33 (0)4 93028319, +33 (0)4 93039102
www.cafresa.org
De Cessole (Nice)
1905 m
62 (20)
Vittorio De Marco
25
all year
piedmontese
+39 0171 97459, +39 339 5280111
[email protected] - www.balmameris.it
Culture path Lo viòl di tàit; M. Bourel 2468 m; Laghi Sella 1882 m e 2329 m
Gta Stop Off Terme
20
2232 m
80 (20)
1/6 - 30/9
21
Casterino-Peyrafica road, altitude 1700 m
550 m; 2 hours; mule track
CAF Nice Mercantour, Michel Duranti
+33 (0)4 92319120
www.cafresa.org
2233 m
52 (12)
15/6 - 30/9
2235 m
12
always open
Guiglia
2421 m
Gias delle Mosche 1591 m (Terme di Valdieri)
850 m; 2.30 hours
CAI Ligurian Section
always open
9
Merveilles
17
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.
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
legend
Departure
Height difference; ascent time; itinerary type
Owner; manager
Opening period
Beds (beds in winter)
Cuisine
Telephone number
E-mail address; web site
Main climbs
Credit cards accepted
Credit cards not accepted
22
Lac de Mesches parking 1380 m
750 m; 3 hours; trail
CAF Nice Mercantour, Alex Ferrier
+33 (0)4 93046464, +33 (0)4 93046922
www.cafresa.org
2130 m
79 (20)
15/6 - 30/9
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.
The manager of the refuge has chosen this difficult profession
for the passion. Often he finds himself/herself doing a lot of things
in little time: from welcoming mountaineers and hikers to the
kitchen service and to the cleaning… the comprehension and
helpfulness of the clients in ”giving a hand” are very well accepted!
Before departing
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
At the refuges
1780 m
12
according to bookings
Fontanalba
Casterino 1543 m
450 m; 1.30 hours; pista
Sci Club di Nizza, Yvette Ferrier
+33 (0)4 93 04 89 19
1368 m
15/6 - 30/9
Pont du Countet 1690 m
550 m; 2 hours; mule track
CAF Nice Mercantour, Christophe Fournier
+33 6 61975938
www.cafresa.org
Valmasque
1847 m
Ponte della Vagliotta 1115 m (Sant’Anna di Valdieri)
750 m; 2 hours
Club Alpino Accademico Italiano
always open
Roaschia 850 m
900 m; 2.30 ore
Municipality of Roaschia, tel. 3490028174
10
2280 m
Ponte della Vagliotta 1115 m (Sant’Anna di Valdieri)
1100 m; 3.30 hours
CAI Ligurian Section
always open
Balur
15
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 Refuge is open from spring to late
autumn. The premises, that offers only overnight stays, relies on the adjacent inn,
Baita Monte Gelas for eating.
Madone de Fenestre
always open
Barbero
Terme di Valdieri 1368 m
950 m; 2.30 hours
CAI Cuneo Section
San Giacomo
9
Sergio Groppo
Sant’Anna di Valdieri 1011 m
1450 m; 4 hours
Private
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;
Entracque by Vallone Bousset
Balma Meris is located in the village of Sant’Anna di Valdieri, the only centre of the
Park that is inhabited all year. Situated exactly at the entrance of the deep Meris
valley, the Alpine Inn is an in-between among the Alpine refuges at altitude and
the buildings of the lower valley. The building, built as the school of the town, has
been recently renovated with a clever use of materials. The abundant use of wood
is the secret to the warm atmosphere of the Refuge. Balma Meris is the summer
departure point for day trips, trekking, climbing and mountain biking. In winter it
is the ideal place from where to move off with skis or snow shoes on your feet.
The Mercantour refuges
Moncalieri
San Giacomo di Entracque 1250 m
1500 m; 4 hours
Giovane Montagna Moncalieri
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.
23
2018 m
62 (0)
15/6 - 15/9
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
Pinet
Punta della Siula
+ 2672
L. Bianco
M. Clapier
+
3045
L. Balaur
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Baisse du Basto
Mont du Grand Capelet
+
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22
2111 REF. DES
MERVEILLES
7
Federici Marchesini al Pagarì Refuge San Giacomo di Entracque
It is a good idea to set off early from this high altitude hut to enjoy the fiery dawn light
on the North-East face of Maledia. Through a long series of switchbacks you drop
down comfortably on this ancient salt route engineered in the fifteenth century by the
legendary 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)
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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
D.L. Bianco Refuge
Emilio Questa Refuge
From the refuge climb to the Upper Sella lake and then to the Colle della Valletta on
the Gesso-Stura watershed. One of the prettiest parts of the high path starts here. A
mule track weaving through spectacular views and lakes to a hunting hide. Over a
rough path you cross the Colletto est della Paur to drop down to the lakes in Valrossa
and the mule track that leads to Valscura lake. You come to the refuge via an
extraordinary military road, which in many stretches is raised and paved.
1150 m; 700 m; 7.30 hrs; Level of difficulty: EE (experienced hikers)
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2
Vinadio, Vallone di Rio Freddo 1526 m
46 (8)
300 m; 1.15 hours; dirt track practicable also by mountain bike
CAI Ceva Section, Katia Tomatis
1/06 - 30/09
regional
+39 0171 1936018; + 39 340 2768964
[email protected] - www.rifugiomalinvern.it
T.ta Malinvern 2939 m, Lago della Paur2357 m, Passo di Orgials 2600 m
Lac Long
Supérieur
The mule track climbs through pastures and rocks to the edge of the northern glacier
of Gelas and the Pera de Fener a historic royal hunting hide. A faint track, often covered
in snow late into the season, crosses the moraine leading to a ledge which brings you
up to a pass, the Passaggio dei Ghiacciai, which looks down on the Agnel lakes, from
these 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)
FONTANALBA
) ( Baisse de
Ellena-Soria Refuge Federici Marchesini al Pagarì Refuge
Alternatives
15
Pian della Casa 1760 m
14
100 m; 20 mins; path
ANA Genova section, voluntary partners
summer
—
+39 0171 97559; +39 010 587236
[email protected] - www.alpinigenova.org
C. Ghiliè 2998 m, C. del Mercantour 2775 m, C. di Fremamorta 2731 m
6
23 REF. DE
de
V.
Genova Refuge Ellena-Soria Refuge
Casterino
a
.
Le Caïre Gros
+
1839 m
If your looking for a corner of wild nature that is easy to reach, the deep Rio Freddo
Valley, 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 conifers
and in the sun of the grasslands around are not to be missed. The fascinating
landscape and the impressive northern side of the Malinvern dominate the scene,
where the snows stay until late summer.
lb
d
Cime des Verrairiers
+
Cime de Montjoia
+
1.
Rovina Lake 1535 m
50 (10)
500 m; 1.45 hours; 1) mule track and trail; 2) path and trail
CAI Ligurian Section, Dario Giorsetti
15/6 - 15/9; other periods on booking
regional and vegetarian dishes
+39 0171 978138; +39 340 4614189
[email protected] - www.rifugiogenova.it
C. Sud Argentera 3297 m, C. Brocan 3054 m, Càire dell’Agnel 2935 m
Leaning against the mountain to defend itself from the great avalanche that comes
down in the spring from the deep valley of Balma Ghiliè, is, without a doubt, the
easiest refuge to reach inside the Park. In the early morning it is often surrounded
by chamois. The building, simple and essential, is managed with passion and cheerfulness
by the voluntary partners of the National Alpine Troops Association in Genova.
na
+ 2873
es
Cime de La Vallette de Prals
+
2018
Fo
a
nt
Mont Bégo
rvei
Go
V.
SAINT-MARTIN-VÉSUBIE
de
V.
Baisse de Fontanalba
lles
Tête de Cinant
+
R
)(
sque
D U
+
Cime de Colmiane
1.45
The Genova Refuge stands at the foot of the eastern side of the massif of Argentera
and 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 opportunity
to observe the saxifrage of Argentera – the most precious botanical endemism of
the Park – are all elements of irresistible attraction, especially for families.
+
Mont Sainte-Marie
L. du
Basto
U
O
N T
A
C
M E R
960
+
Le Conquet
REF. DE VALMASQUE
L. Noir
REF. DE CESSOLE
)(
19 1903
20 2232
VA
21
Franco Remondino Refuge Genova Refuge
After 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 its
imposing might appears the Gelas group, its glaciers reflecting in the still waters of
a tiny lake. This view of the southernmost glaciers in the Alps accompanies you down
to your destination.
450 m; 700 m; 4 hrs; Level of difficulty: E (escursionistico/normal hiking)
2221
VA
+
Mont Ponset
5
L. Gelato
Pas du Mont Colomb
F. Remondino Refuge
From the refuge, which is a real eagle's nest at the foot of Argentera, you climb up
among the 3000 m peaks to cross the Brocan Pass which looks over the upper Rovina
valley. The walk down, like part of the climb is on a rough path. It goes by quickly with
a 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)
Laghi di
Peirafica
ST. DALMAS-DE-TENDE
(
ola
ad
e M
4
L. dell’Agnel
2819
+
Mont Néglier
Cime de La Palu
+
)(
NICE
Valdeblore
)(
tre
Mont Lapassé
+
La Colmiane
1290
nes
de Fe
one
L.dell'Oro
Cima del Sabbione
Colle del Vei del Bouc
+
Cima dell’Agnel
2710
2610
+
L. della Vacca
2328
BIV. MONCALIERI
2775
Col
du
Sabion
L. Bianco
2645
2650 1
+
Cima della
RIF. FEDERICI MARCHESINI
Scandeiera
Passo del Pagarì
L. Long
2471 Col de
Fenestre
REF. DE LA MADONE
DE FENETRE
I O
N A
L
VA
Rocca dell’Abisso
+
2755
Rocce dell’Asino
+
2310
Valasco Refuge, royal hunting lodge
Leaving the pastures of the Valasco plain behind, the path climbs up the Val Morta twisting
through ancient larches. Along a spectacular paved military road which crosses the Colletto
del Valasco you reach a raised plateau, home to the Fremamorta lakes. After skirting around
the lower and middle lakes heading towards the Colle di Fremamorta, a long descent takes
you down to the Piano della Casa del Re. From here you climb to Remondino refuge, where
the 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)
12
M. del Frisson
+
2637
L. del Vei del Bouc
rd
on
ré
T
30
11
1840
L. della Maura
VA
Bo
V.
A
Passo della
Mena
Laghi
2201
del Frisson
Gias della
Culatta
L. della Siula
RIF. ELLENA SORIA
3143 +
Cime de Piagu
+
Cima Plisser
+
2318
L. della Roccia
L. Vert
C
3
M. Ciotto Mien
+
2378
L.della Valletta Piccola
C. Gelàs
Pas des )
Ladres
2261
L. Carboné
)(
R
Saint Dalmas
1300
18
Le Boréon
Gias V alera sott. M. Colombo
+
M. Carboné
+
2873
Gias Colomb
Fontana
Gias Créusa
soprano
Gias d’Ischietto
D. L. Bianco Refuge Valasco Refuge, royal hunting lodge
From the refuge the path gains height through the rocky bastions smoothed by ancient
glaciers, behind these the Upper Sella lake lies hidden. The king didn't walk to the
shooting hides, he rode on horseback. So we are left with this mule track, it is still
in perfect condition with a regular gradient leading up to the panoramic Colle di
Valmiana. After a long descent you reach Vittorio Emanuele II's hunting lodge built
on the Valasco plain in the nineteenth century.
1050 m; 1150 m; 6.30 hrs; Level of difficulty: E (escursionistico/normal hiking)
)(
)(
A
+
2821
Gias della
Cuccetta
)(
Col Saint Martin
1500
Sant’Anna di Valdieri 1011 m
48 (14)
900 m; 3 hours; mule track
CAI Cuneo Section, Livio Bertaina
15/6 - 15/9; at weekends from march to november on booking
regional
+39 0171 97328; +39 335 5461677
[email protected] - www.rifugioliviobianco.it
M. Matto 3097 m, R.ca di Valmiana 3006 m, R.ca della Paur 2972 m
Malinvern-City of Ceva
Cima Cougourda +
2921
2090
Gias del Rasur Punta Savina
2
)(
)(
MOLLIERES
Mont Archas
+
1.
1834 m
2
lè
V.ne
one
Sa
30
7
Cima dell’Agnel
+
2927
M. Pelago
+
2768
2
Regina Elena
2015
Punta del Baus
+
2749
bbi
l Sa
de
2.
2015 m
VA
3
RIF. GENOVA-FIGARI
) (Colle di Fenestrelle
L. Brocan
2463
M. Garbella
+
2306
Punta della Rua
2779 +
L. del Chiotas Ciamberline
Cima del Baus
+ 3067
Colle di Brocan
M. Aiera
+
2713
1213
+
2792
13
Ponte del Suffiet
Punta
RIF. REMONDINO
A R
I T T
I M E
1379
Palanfré
de
Terme di Valdieri 1368 m
40 (10)
1000 m; 3.15 hours; mule track and path
CAI Cuneo Section, Andrea Cismondi
15/6 - 15/9; other periods by booking
regional and vegetarian dishes on request
+39 0171 97394
www.rifugiomorellibuzzi.it
C. Nord Argentera 3286 m, C. dell’Oriol 2943 m, C. Mondini 2915 m
2430
M
M. la Croce
+
1937
Colle della ) (
Garbella
Reale Casa di Caccia
San Giacomo
L. Mercantour
V.n
San Giacomo di Entracque 1215 m
45 (8)
650 m; 2.30 hours; trail practicable also by mountain bike
CAI Cuneo Section; Mary Bacani
15/6-15/9; weekends between 1/4-15/6 and 15/9-15/10; other periods on booking
regional and Filipino
+39 0171 978382; +39 340 2240558
[email protected] - www.rifugiosoriaellena.com
M. Gelas 3143 m, C. Saint Robert 2917 m, C. dell’Agnel 2927 m
1535
REF. DE COUGOURDE
V.
1910 m
It is a quiet and romantic spot where the refuge stands: sunk in a cushion of grass
dotted with larch trees and rhododendrons overlooking the flat expanse of the Lago
sottano della Sella.
Queen Elena of Montenegro, wife of Vittorio Emanuele III, came right up to here
to fish trout but, it is said, above all to find tranquillity and be carefree. Since then
the atmosphere of the place has not changed.
M. Barra
+
2071
15
M. Caval
2393 +
Baus de La Frema
+
You climb up to the refuge on a mule track of the ancient Royal Hunting Reserve
that lazily snakes among centuries old larch trees. Coming out of the wood, you
come across new sights every step you take: the romantic Lagarot di Lourousa, the
steep side of Corno Stella, the strange head of the ”Cigar”. At the refuge you will
stand open-mouthed in front of the thousand metres of vertiginous rocks of Monte
Stella, while towards the valley, framed by the profile of a typical glacial valley, Monte
Matto rises, the castle of the highest peaks, standing at three thousand metres.
T. Tanasso
L. della
Rovina
)(
Col de Salèse
lla
Colle Chiapous
Cima di
Brocan + 3054
Cima di
Colle
Mercantour
Mercantour
+ )(
2775
Colle Ciriegia
2551
de
L P
I
BIV. BAUS
L. di
Nasta
1834
e
on
3297
4
Cima di Pagarì
+
2706
2031
ll
C.+ Argentera
la Madre di Dio
+
2800
RIF. REGINA
ELENA
Colle di
Cima di +
Fremamorta
Fremamorta ) (
2731
N
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 were
busy in crossing the Alps by the colle di Finestra. A much frequented route in the
Middle Ages to already offer hospice for the travellers. Whoever goes over these
mounts today finds a modern and particularly welcoming refuge along the way.
5
2453
7
L. Negre
Va
) ( 2526
Piano
d. Casa
Punta Giegn
+
2903
2351
na
Tetti Porcera
Punta Casasco
+
1941
Sant’Anna di Valdieri D. L. Bianco Refuge
«W la regina (Long live the Queen)»: you can't miss this historic inscription in bold
letters as you leave Sant’Anna at the start of the Kings' High Path. This is the path
the hunter kings of the House of Savoy took when setting off on their adventurous
chamois hunts or for simple walks. Queen Elena would have walked passed this
slogan, dedicated to her, to go fishing trout in the Sella lake. The path is quite steep
initially, but later it levels out and there is more of a view, it crosses an open grassy
basin where you are equally likely to see herds of goats or chamois, flocks of sheep
or horses, until you come out at the lake side, near the refuge.
950 m; 3 hrs; Level of difficulty: E (escursionistico/normal hiking)
i Doni
Rocca d’Orel
+
2394
M. Pianard
+
2306
)(
2620 (
) Passo
del Prefouns
BIV. VARRONE
RIF. BOZANO
Gias della Casa
BIV.
2421 GUIGLIA
Laghi di
Fremamorta
RIF. MORELLI
6
R
i
ov
14
1096
1
ne
ISOLA 2000
L. de Tavels
Testa di Bresses
+
2830
VA
M. Bussaia
+
2451
Trinità
Ponte delle
Rovine
ra
)(
Testa delle Portette
+
2821
) ( 2429
BIV. COSTI
e d
i
Tetti Traversa
Tetti d’Ambrin
1855
+
A
Monte Sapè
+
1867
Caire dell’Uia
+
1459
V.
10
Colletto
di Valasco
2388
lo n
E
Esterate
Lago della
Piastra
ncolomb
Dante Livio Bianco
8
RIF. QUESTA
L. delle Portette
al
2280
2970 +
Asta Soprana
Cima del Lausetto
+
2687
L
VERNANTE
1780
S. Lucia
+
2548
Cima della
Vagliotta
Asta Sottana
2850 +
Punta Stella
+
2567
2235
V a ll o n e
Gias delle
Mosche
d e ll a V
a ll e tt a
Punta S. Giovanni
A
Monte Testa
+
1952
S. Rocco
M. Ray
+
2318
Mo
2351 m
V
9
R
CAP. BARBERO
Gias
Vagliotta
1847
BIV. GANDOLFO
so
1368
al a s co
e del V
V a ll o n
RIF. del VALASCO
2325
+
Piano del Valasco
1764
U
1670
Terme
di Valdieri
S. Giovanni
VA
T.ta Malivern
+
2939
Bassa del Laghi di
Druos Valscura
lla
ENTRACQUE
BIV. BALUR
VA
6
17
.
ll
Va
893
se
Morelli-Buzzi
T
2764
2797
+
Cima Valrossa Sud
G
es
de
T
a
ett
S. Giovanni
Bar
VINADIO
Segnassa
Cima Centrale
L. Malinvern di Valrossa
+
P
1840 m
Tetti Niot
3097
Tetti Gaina
A
sa
Terme di Valdieri 1390 m
50 (4)
400 m; 1.15 hours; mule track or practicable also by Mtb
private, Andrea Cismondi
1/6 - 30/9; at weekends from march to november, other periods by booking
regional
+39 0171 1935229
[email protected] - www.rifugiovalasco.it
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
M.+Matto
N
Rocce Scregna
+
1848
1506
E
L
L
A
V
Palazzine
Reali
G
Tetti Arpetta
ou
Gias delle Mosche 1591 m
24 (15)
900 m; 2.45 hours; path
CAI Ligurian Section, Marco Quaglia
15/6 - 15/9; other periods by booking
home cooking
+39 0171 97351; +39 328 3567556
[email protected] - www.rifugiobozano.com
Corno Stella 3050 m, C. Sud Argentera 3297 m, Catena delle Guide 2737 m
Punta Morionera
+
2059
ur
Valasco is an oasis of peace that like magic, opens out at the bottom of an impervious
deep 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 had
a hunting lodge built in the mid-nineteenth century, a singular square “fort” with
battlemented towers. Today this historic building has been renovated and transformed
into a refuge to offer everyone a stay “fit for a King”.
O
Lo
In the Southern Alps, there is not one landscape that can be compared for majesty
and grandeur to the one of the western side of Argentera and Corno Stella that
towers over the refuge.
The new Bozano, built near the old historic building in which the mountaineering
pioneers of the Maritime Alps stayed, was built on a ship shaped base in the middle
of great boulders that the architect interpreted as waves of a stormy sea.
1910
S. Anna 16
di Valdieri
E
Ponte Rosso
M. Corno
Tetti Rim
+
848
Tetto Chiotti
ROASCHIA
t
1764 m
Gias del
Prato
C
RIF. MALINVERN
1840
L. de Paur
Colletto
Valscura
Tetti Luiset
S
se
9
R
Rocca Arcoulon
+
2620
Cima Valrossa
Nord
+
2909
M. Merqua
+
2148
O
S
us
Valasco, royal hunting lodge
Rocca la Paur
+
2972
S.Bernardo
S.Lorenzo
rtetto
San Bernardo
VALDIERI
790
1011
RIF. D.L. BIANCO
Colle di
) (Valmiana
2922
M. la Piastra
+
1832
Bo
2453 m
11
10
Lago Soprano
della Sella
e Des
e
The Kings' High Path (Alta Via dei Re) crosses the Park touching
most of the unmissable sites in Alpi Marittime, panoramic
views, abundant wildlife, unforgettable lakes. «Royal», places
precisely because they are in some way linked to the house
of Savoy, frequent visitors to the area in the last century. We
can see signs of their presence on the landscape in their
residences, hunting hides, monuments and most of all the
dense network of roads, mule tracks and paths that the High
Path covers from refuge to refuge.
The route is a higher alternative to the easier GTA route, and
if you follow the whole route it will take you over some
exposed, unmarked stretches (Passo di Brocan and Passaggio
dei Ghiacciai) so you should approach it with the right
equipment and physically prepared.
RISERVA NATURALE
DELLE GROTTE
DEL BANDITO
T.
5
Testa delle Novelle
+
2603
Madonna
del Colletto
p
Tetti Babau
Valletta
Colletto
Tetti dei Fré
P
Lorenzo Bozano
Terme di Valdieri 1390 m
17 (10)
1000 m; 3.15 hours; trail and mule track, by the Valscura Lakes also by Mtb
CAI Ligurian Section, Flavio Poggio
15/6 - 15/9
regional
+39 0171 97338; +39 347 7959051
[email protected] - www.rifugioquesta.it
T.ta del Claus 2889 m, T.ta di Tablasses 2851 m, T.ta del Malinvern 2939 m
A
Ar
S e r ra d e l
Lau
s
Va
l
lla
de
V.
ne
Va ll o
n
M. Ventabren
)(
+
Colle di
2611
Marchiana BIV. GROPPO
2276
ll’
Borghignon
)(
le
r
tta
Sp
San Giacomo di Entracque 1215 m
24 (6)
1450 m; 5 hours; trail and mule track
CAI Ligurian Section, Andrea “Aladar” Pittavino
15/6 - 15/9; other periods by booking
home cooking, vegetarian and for particular diets
+39 0171 978398; +39 380 7108075
[email protected] - www.rifugiopagari.com
M. Clapier 3045 m, C. della Maledia 3061 m, M. Gelas 3143 m
3
1746
Colle
dell’Arpione
de
ed
ella
a
l
M. Bourel
+ 2468
Cagna
Lago Soprano Cima Gorgia
+
d. Valletta
2716
Lago Sottano
della Sella
Passo ) (
)(
Pagarì, with its 2650 metres in altitude and the 5 hour walk to reach it, offers the
hiker the pleasure and satisfaction of things hard-earned. Within its walls it is pleasant
to enjoy the atmosphere of the refuge “d'antan” and the manager's welcome, who
will reveal every secret of these mountains. Among the many precious recommendations
is the one to suggest that you get up at dawn to catch the red reflection of the aurora
on the incredible wall of the Maledia, images that you will take back down to the
valley, captured by camera and indelibly printed in your memory.
Genova-Figari
Cima Cialancia
+
1885
il Chiot
+
1698
sta
T. Gesso della Barra
st
io
VA
2650 m
Last of the old style refuges left in the Park, the Questa is particularly appreciated by
those who want to taste the mountains without too much comfort. Reached by military
mule tracks, authentic works of art by the military engineering, is found a stones throw
away 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 you
take in is a summary of the Maritime Alps: your eyes embrace the massif of Matto
and Argentera, the bold Cresta Savoia and the green Pian del Valasco.
2889
2
ec
Gias Fontanile
Lago Sottano
Testa Rimà
+
2506
L. del
Testa del Claus + Claus
Ellena-Soria
C.
Alta Via dei Re
RISERVA NATURALE
DI ROCCA SAN GIOVANNI–SABEN
V.n
2388 m
ità
8
Co
Visible from the start of the path, you get nearer to the refuge step by step along
an intense and spectacular itinerary: high up some parts of the three thousand
metres of the south-western Alps stand out, among which, Argentera, the “roof”
of the Maritime Alps. From the Remondino refuge where nearby, ibex, chamois and
stoats can be frequently spotted, the eye is captured to the west by the rocky crag
that culminates in the peaks of Fremamorta, Bresses and Tablasses.
Pian della Casa 1760 m
46 (12)
700 m; 2 hours; path
CAI Cuneo Section, Franca Torre
15/6 - 15/9; other periods on booking
regional
+39 0171 97327; +39 328 5440495
[email protected] - www.rifugioremondino.it
C. Sud Argentera 3297 m, C. di Nasta 3108 m, C. Paganini 3051 m
1
Emilio Questa
Tri
n
2430 m
o
4
CUNEO
Cima Pissousa
Cima Saben
1673
+
+ 1670
Tetti Baut
ett
Franco Remondino
Gias Vei
+
2420
Alpine refuges
Federici-Marchesini al Pagarì
3 km
V
legend
Departure
Height difference; ascent time; itinerary type
Owner; manager
Opening period
Beds (beds in winter)
Cuisine
Telephone number
E-mail address; web site
Main climbs
Credit cards accepted
Credit cards not accepted
CUNEO
FESTIONA
6 km
V. del Bousset
AISONE
3a
Emilio Questa Refuge
Franco Remondino Refuge
From the refuge cross the the upper part of the Valasco valley to Val Morta to meet
up 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)
3b
Valasco Refuge, royal hunting lodge
Morelli-Buzzi Refuge
From the refuge take the dirt road that cuts through the vast Valasco plain leading
down to Terme di Valdieri; the spa with its grand hotel and Bela Rosìn's chalet, that
Vittorio Emanuele II had built, it is said, to pass his nights of love in peace. The climb
to Morelli is along a good winding path weaving its way through ancient larches. When
the trees finally part to expose the view, it is one of prettiest in the Maritime Alps: the
north 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)
4a
Morelli-Buzzi Refuge Genova Refuge
The mule track crosses enormous grey or reddish blocks of stone to the Colle del
Chiapous. Throughout the climb Monte Stella towers over you with its thousand metre
wall. 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 boots
the 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 shuttle minibus: tel. 335 6531024.