The Orco Valley, the realm of Piedmontese granite, is located about an hour from Turin and is part of the Gran Paradiso National Park. The rock that characterizes the valley is granite, and there are numerous walls where climbers have loved testing themselves since the mid-seventies, a period known as the “Nuovo Mattino”. The Orco Valley offers various possibilities both in terms of climbing style and type of routes. In the first case, options range from climbing on technical friction slabs and “nasty” crimps to pure crack climbing. In the second case, you can choose between numerous single-pitch crags and many multi-pitch routes. Among these, there are modern bolted routes and trad routes that require the use of removable protection: friends and nuts. Given the variety of exposures, you can climb from April to November by choosing the most suitable walls for the period; however, the best months remain those in spring and autumn.

For anyone wishing to approach crack climbing, the Orco Valley represents a perfect training ground and a demanding testing site for those who already have experience with jamming techniques.

Program

Day departure from Cuneo at the Global Mountain Alpine Guides Office; after a quick check of individual equipment, we'll transfer by car to Ceresole Reale – Orco Valley (it's also possible to meet directly on-site). Once in the area, we reach the chosen wall based on your needs and difficulty level. There are options to climb single pitches or multi-pitch routes, with numerous alternatives for both beginners and experts. Return to Cuneo in the evening or stay in the valley for several days.

Necessary materials

Climbing gear: Harness, helmet, climbing shoes, chalk, trekking shoes/boots, 20/30 liter backpack, sunglasses, sunscreen, mountain clothing, hand tape. If available, min 70m rope, quickdraws, and trad gear (friends and nuts).

Rates per person for private/pre-formed groups