SI E24

The connection between the two main Valdesi Valleys is made with this long stage featuring significant elevation gain. We are in the areas where the Protestant cult of Valdism was born and took root, which still represents one of Italy's most significant religious minorities today. From Villanova Pellice, the trail starts immediately uphill until reaching Colle delle Faure at an altitude of 2109 meters. From here, a brief descent and a flat stretch lead to Bergerie Giulian, where the final steep climb begins up to Col Giulian at 2461 meters. This is the point where the Sentiero Italia, for several stages, will retrace the route followed by the Valdesi during the Glorious Return when, in 1689, a group of Valdesi, who had fled to Geneva three years earlier due to persecution, returned on foot to their valleys, avoiding the Savoy troops and reclaiming their homes and lands. From the Colle, a panoramic traverse leads to the beautiful basin of the 13 lakes, and from there, a long and steep descent leads to Ghigo di Prali.