Val Maira in the Italian Alps

Today you make your way to the village of San Michele Prazzo located at 1370m altitude in the Italian Alps. Take some time to visit the beautifully painted Parish Church. You will be picked up at the bus stop and transferred to the first accommodation.

The day’s walk is on the southern slopes above San Michele and follows part of the “Lou Viol Dal Genestè”. This circular route takes you into contact with nature, from forests of larch and spruce to grasslands and rocky crags, and Genestè (growing broom). Along the trail, it’s easy to spot a variety of wildlife native to the area.

A challenging hike high above the valley with beautiful views. The walk goes through woods and meadows, you will come across only a few tiny hamlets on this walk. You will arrive at the accommodation in Acceglio and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

A short morning transfer will lead you to Chiappera, the last restored village of Val Maira at 1620m altitude, where the day’s walk starts. The village has a bar and a beautiful church with some pretty frescoes. The initial climb to the striking Rocca Provenzale is tough, but after Colle Greguri (2309m) it becomes a leisurely walk back to Chiappera, where you will be picked up and taken back to the accommodation.

First, a short transfer in the morning will lead you this time to Sorgente Maira where today’s walk on the Sentiero Frassati starts. This itinerary goes past a few smaller and larger mountain lakes, such as the deep blue Lago Apzoi at 2300m altitude, as well as a series of bunkers that Mussolini had built on the border with France. It is possible to walk back to Ponte Maira or you can opt to take a transfer from Sorgenti Maira (to be paid locally)

Today you leave Ponte Maira for the tiny mountain village of Viviere, located in the cool and more forested northern slope of the Val Maira. A long climb brings you to Colle Ciarbonet (2206m), then you start descending to Viviere where you will be staying in a cosy welcoming hut.

This final stage takes you up to Colle Oserot (highest point 2640m). This is a very nice walk along steep limestone cliffs and green meadows with great panoramic views. You can also make a small trip to Rifugio Gardetta (at 2380 m), situated on the Plateau Gardetta.

Departure after breakfast where from Viviere you will be taken to the bus stop in Acceglio.