Travel program

1st day: Our journey begins in San Giacomo di Entracque. We ascend an ancient glacial valley, following the historic mule track that once crossed the southernmost glaciers of the Alps, leading travelers into France. About four hours of hiking will take us to Rifugio Pagarì, the highest refuge in the Maritime Alps. Dinner and overnight stay at the refuge.

2nd day: Departure from the refuge, continuing along the mule track from the previous day. The trail leads us to Passo Pagarì, crossing into France beneath the majestic Monte Gèlas. Arrival at Refuge Madone de Fenestre, an ancient sanctuary, adding a touch of history and spirituality to the journey. We spend the night here.

3rd day: Breakfast and departure from the refuge. We ascend the wide valley, offering stunning views of picturesque glacial lakes scattered among breathtaking landscapes, reaching Colle delle Finestre, a historic pass used by Jewish refugees to cross into France during World War II. We then return to Italy, descending towards Rifugio Soria Ellena, where we spend the night.

4th day: Breakfast and departure from the refuge towards Rifugio Remondino. We bid farewell to the Gèlas massif to shift perspectives and approach the queen of the Maritime Alps: Argentera. Passing by the imposing Chiotas basin and Rifugio Genova, we ascend one of the slopes of this majestic mountain, reaching Passo del Brocan at 2892m before descending to Rifugio Remondino. Dinner and overnight stay at the refuge.

5th day: Breakfast and departure towards Rifugio Questa. The route begins with a descent, leading us to the stunning Fremamorta lakes. Dinner and overnight stay at Rifugio Questa.

6th day: Breakfast and early morning departure, once again descending. After about an hour and a half of hiking, we reach Pian del Valasco and its namesake refuge, formerly a royal hunting lodge of the House of Savoy. The itinerary follows one of the most beautiful trail networks in the Maritime Alps—a fully paved military road winding through crystal-clear alpine lakes and the colorful granites of Prefouns. In the afternoon, we return to Terme di Valdieri, marking the end of the trek.