The tour of Monviso is undoubtedly the most famous trekking in the Southern Alps. Thanks to its route, which we propose in 3 days with departure and return from Pontechianale in Val Varaita, it will be possible to observe the Stone King in his various guises: from rocky and sunny South Face (where the Via Normale winds) to the steep and repulsive North Face. The overnight stays will be enlivened by the excellent hospitality of the local refugees and their typical dishes.
PROGRAM
DAY 1 - Wednesday: Pontechianale Castle - Vallanta Refuge with the addition of Cima Losetta (3054m)
Meeting of the participants at 9:30 am at Castello di Pontechianale in the Varaita Valley, at the parking lot at the beginning of the path that leads to the Vallanta Refuge. Our trek will begin by passing alongside the Bosco dell'Alevè, the largest expanse of stone pine in Europe, and then head towards the majestic west face of Monviso, at the base of which we will find the aforementioned Refuge. From here it will be possible (optional) to reach Cima Losetta (3054 m), from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Monviso, Visolotto and all the surrounding peaks. Dinner and overnight stay.
2nd DAY - Thursday: Vallanta Refuge - Giacoletti Refuge with the addition of Cima Meidassa 3105m
Departure from the Vallanta Refuge in the direction of the Vallanta pass and then descend to the Refuge du Viso, in French territory, and continue towards the picturesque “Buco di Viso”, the historic connecting passage between France and Italy. After crossing it, we will climb towards Cima Meidassa (3105 m) from which we will savor the imposing and glacial north face of Monviso, and if the weather is favorable, our gaze will reach some peaks of Mont Blanc and Monte Rosa. We will then descend through the Postman's Path to reach the Giacoletti Refuge. Dinner and overnight stay.
DAY 3 - Friday:Giacoletti Refuge - Pontechianale Castle
Leaving the Refuge we will descend towards the Lakes of Fiorenza and Chiaretto: the latter takes its name from the turquoise color of the waters that reflect the north-east face of Monviso. We will then climb the moraine in the direction of the Quintino Sella Refuge, passing under the imposing walls of Monviso and bypassing Lake Grande di Viso and then crossing a grassy plateau that will lead us to the Gallarino Pass and the San Chiaffredo Pass. From here the path will descend to the village of Castello where our tour will end.