The ascent of the Monviso East Ridge (3,841 m) is a great classic climb in the Alps. This remarkably elegant route leads to the summit, alternating between climbing sections on ledges and towers and short connecting sections. The classic route has a maximum difficulty of grade III, with an elevation gain of about 1,000 meters. During the climb, you can follow a variation that reaches the top of Torrione Saint Robert, reconnecting with the original line at around 3,600 meters. In this case, the difficulty is more sustained, exposure increases, and there are some grade IV sections.
From Rifugio Quintino Sella, you reach Colle di Viso (2,650 m) and begin the climb up the scree slope leading to the base of the approach couloir. Cross the couloir with crampons and an ice axe, if necessary, until you reach the start of the ridge at 2,850 meters. From here, crossing a series of rocky ledges, you reach the base of Torrione Saint Robert (approx. 3,400 m). A more sustained progression leads to the junction between the classic route and the tower variation. To climb Saint Robert, you need to tackle a couple of steeper and more sustained pitches, with difficulties up to grade IV. Alternatively, bypassing the tower, you cross a gully on its left side to reach the ridge crest at about 3,600 meters. From this point, the progression toward the summit becomes particularly enjoyable, with a series of small rocky outcrops. The descent follows the normal route.
This is a very rewarding climb, though it requires a good level of physical fitness and adequate mountaineering experience.
This program will take you into the heart of the Cuneo mountains, one of the wildest and most pristine corners of the Alps. Because of these characteristics, the trip will be led by UIAGM Mountain Guides from Globalmountain-Guide Alpine Cuneo, professionals specializing in high-altitude environments.
Travel program
Day 1: Drive to Pian del Re followed by a hike up to Rifugio Quintino Sella, with a 620 m elevation gain and an estimated hiking time of about 2 h 30 min.
Day 2: Departure from Rifugio Quintino Sella at 5:00 AM. Summit climb along the East Ridge, with 1,200 m of elevation gain and an estimated time of 5–6 hours. Descent to Rifugio Quintino Sella in 4–5 hours and subsequent return to Pian del Re. Additional overnight stay at Rifugio Quintino Sella available upon request.
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Other informations
Departure and return
Pian del Re, Crissolo
Duration
2 days / 1 night
Guaranteed departure
Minimum 2 partecipants
Documents
ID card | Valid CAI membership card (if applicable)
The participation fee includes
- Logistics organization
- Accompaniment by a UIAGM/Globalmountain certified mountain guide
- Overnight stay at Rifugio Sella with half-board
Price per person
from € 490
Deposit of € 123
Payment Methods and Cancellation PolicyDepartures
- 16 - 17 July 2026 Proceed with registration
- 19 - 20 August 2026 Proceed with registration
Other destinations
To the summit of Monviso along the Normal Route
- 23 - 24 July 2026
- 6 - 7 August 2026
- 3 - 4 September 2026
Visolotto, Southeast Ridge and the traverse of its three peaks
- 24 - 25 July 2026
- 28 - 29 August 2026