A weekend in the heart of the southernmost glacier of all the Alps, the Gelàs Massif Glacier, an imposing and wild mountain that will allow us to enjoy breathtaking views and landscapes capable of making this excursion one of the most exciting in the Cuneo valleys.

Program

DAY 1: San Giacomo di Entracque - Pagarì Refuge

Starting from San Giacomo di Entracque, take a paved road that soon leads to the royal hunting lodges, now summer camps, and continues into a beech forest before emerging into the Pra del Rasur basin. After crossing the plateau, you'll reach a gias - an Occitan term - called 'Del Vej del Buc' and from here take the trail leading to Gias Sottano del Muraion, then to Passo Sottano and then Soprano del Muraion. The ascent continues on a long series of switchbacks until reaching a ridge where a stone pillar has been erected, topped with a plume and colorful Nepalese flags. A few more minutes and you'll reach Pagarì Refuge, surrounded by the most imposing peaks of the Maritime Alps such as Pagarì Peak 2905m and Maledia Peak 3061m. Dinner and overnight stay at the refuge where you can enjoy the legendary hospitality of Aladar, the refuge keeper, excellent cook and beer producer.

Elevation gain: +1440 m

DAY 2: Passo dei Ghiacciai and descent to Soria-Ellena Refuge

Leaving the refuge, we'll head toward Vallonetto del Pagarì to reach Bivacco Moncalieri, from which we can admire the white lakes of Gèlas, named for their distinctive coloration. We'll then pass alongside Bivacco Moncalieri, located among moraine scree, until reaching Passo dei Ghiacciai del Gelàs which, framed by Nepalese prayer flags, is the starting point for the crossing of the same name. Descending from the pass, we'll reach the moraine of Pera de Fener where, before World War II, a refuge stood that was later dismantled for military purposes. We'll continue descending while admiring the Serra dell'Argentera, the Gèlas massif and countless peaks and valleys until reaching Soria-Ellena Refuge and from there down to San Giacomo.

Elevation gain: +395 m

Necessary materials

• Layered clothing: thermal shirt (long or short-sleeved), heavy long-sleeved shirt, down jacket, windproof and waterproof shell.
• Headlamp
• Personal medications (including plasters for any blisters)
• Water bottle
• Hat
• Sunscreen
• Mountain boots and trekking poles (optional)
• Personal food (energy bars, gels, chocolate, etc.)
• Sleeping bag liner

Rates per person for private/pre-formed groups