Day 1
Meeting and Departure
Meeting with the guide, equipment check, and distribution of technical gear. Departure for the Valnontey, Cogne area.
Hike to the Vittorio Sella Refuge
We will ascend to the Vittorio Sella Refuge (2584 m), a walk of about 3 hours immersed in the beauty of nature. The trail begins in a beautiful coniferous forest and climbs moderately steep, with gradual elevation gains that will allow us to acclimatize at a relaxed pace. As we approach the refuge, the path will become steeper and more rugged, but the final view and arrival at the refuge will certainly reward our efforts. Dinner and overnight stay at the Vittorio Sella Refuge.
Ascent: 950 m
Time: 3/4 hours
Day 2
Dawn and Departure
On the second day, we will wake up early and set off for the summit of Gran Serra (3552 m). The route will be demanding, with steeper sections that will test our endurance, but the effort will be worth it when we reach the summit, where a 360° panoramic view awaits us.
Descent and Ascent
We will face a short technical descent into the isolated Tymorion valley, followed by an ascent to the Colle del Gran Neyron (3400 m). Along the way, we will admire the majestic north faces of Colle di Montandaynè and Gran Paradiso.
Arrival at the Chabod Refuge
We will conclude the day with a descent to the Chabod Refuge (2750 m), where the hospitality is warm and welcoming.
Ascent: 1,370 m
Descent: 1,250 m
Time: 7/8 hours
Day 3
The Most Challenging Day
The third day is dedicated to crossing the Laveciau glacier, one of the most spectacular and technical moments of the itinerary. This glacier, located on the southern slope of the massif, features crevasses and steep slopes and requires good technical preparation.
Summit of Gran Paradiso
We will reach the summit of Gran Paradiso (4061 m), culminating in a fairly exposed final ridge, following the ridge known as Schiena d’Asino. The route requires the use of crampons and rope. The summit is the highest peak entirely in Italy and a symbol of Gran Paradiso National Park.
Descent to the Vittorio Emanuele II Refuge
We will begin the descent to the Vittorio Emanuele II Refuge (2730 m) on the shores of Lake Moncorvé.
Ascent: 1,360 m
Descent: 1,330 m
Time: 5/6 hours
Day 4
Wild Crossing
On the fourth day, we will enter Piedmont territory, crossing the Colle del Gran Paradiso (3345 m).
Vallone di Noaschetta
We will descend into the little-known Vallone di Noaschetta until we reach the Ivrea bivouac (2745 m).
Colle dei Becchi and Pontese Refuge
We will continue with an ascent to the Colle dei Becchi (2990 m) and end the day with a descent into the Piantonetto valley to reach the Pontese Refuge (2200 m), known for its warm hospitality in the Alps.
Ascent: 950 m
Descent: 1,300 m
Time: 6/7 hours
Day 5
Final Stage
With an elevation gain of 1100 m between the walls of Becco di Valsoera and Gran San Pietro, we will start the last stage of the tour early in the morning.
Colle del Teleccio and Descent
We will ascend to the Colle del Teleccio (3304 m) and then enjoy the descent into the Valleille, reaching the picturesque village of Lillaz.
Return to Valnontey
We will conclude our journey with a short car transfer back to our starting point in Valnontey, taking about 15 minutes.
Ascent: 1,100 m
Descent: 1,750 m
Time: 6/8 hours
