Impossible to miss! At 3,080 m, it reigns supreme alongside Argentera, the Queen of the Maritime Alps… Two symbolic peaks that represent the “Pillars of Hercules” of our Gesso Valley.

What we are offering is a long and demanding hiking loop that starts from the village of Sant’Anna di Valdieri and leads to the summit of Monte Matto (Normal Route).

Program

DAY 1: departure from Sant'Anna di Valdieri, once a summer resort for the Italian royals of the House of Savoy. Ascent into the Meris Valley through numerous "gias" - an Occitan term - where shepherds once lived, farming the land and grazing their livestock. We will reach the Dante Livio Bianco Refuge where we will spend the night. Located on the waters of Lake Sottano della Sella and at the foot of Monte Matto, it was a favorite spot of Queen Elena, who spent her days fishing on the lake.

Elevation gain: +932 m to the Dante Livio Bianco Refuge

DAY 2: leaving the refuge, we will climb a rocky balcony that will lead us to Lake Soprano della Sella, a glacial lake. From here, we will follow a scree path that will lead us to the summit of Monte Matto: we will finally enjoy a breathtaking view over the entire Cuneo plain, the Langhe, and the Alps, all the way to the peaks of the Aosta Valley. A long descent towards the Valasco Refuge - a former Royal Hunting Lodge - and then towards Terme di Valdieri, where our itinerary will end.

Elevation gain/loss: +1,170 m from the refuge to the summit of Monte Matto and -2,102 m descending to Sant'Anna di Valdieri

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