SI E21

This medium-length stage with significant elevation gain leads to the feet of Monviso along the popular hiking route of the Giro di Viso. From Pontechianale, you follow the lake until reaching the village of Castello, where you take the trail that goes into the Vallanta valley. Near the hamlet of Gheit, you turn east and begin a steep ascent towards the passes of San Chiaffredo and Gallarino, exceeding 2700 meters above sea level. Thus, you enter a high-altitude environment characterized by rocky terrains topped with spires and peaks converging on the eastern face of Viso. After passing several lakes, including the Lago Grande di Viso, you arrive at the Rifugio Quintino Sella, which serves as a starting point for the summit of Monviso and a resting place for hikers completing the circuit around the mountain.