Tips
August 10, 2022
Mountain biking
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August 30, 2022
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Blue Lake
4.7
(124)
652
hikers
10.9km
05:16
830m
830m
Embark on a difficult 6.8-mile (10.9 km) hike to Col de Longet and Bivacco Olivero, a challenging route that gains 2722 feet (830 metres) over approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes. The trail begins with a flat section before a steep forest ascent, leading you through bucolic landscapes with tranquil streams and expansive meadows. You will encounter several picturesque lakes, including Lac de Longet and Laghi del Bes, their intense blue waters often framed by green vegetation. From the Col de Longet, you are rewarded with magnificent panoramic views of prominent peaks like Mont Viso and Pic d'Asti.
This trail is generally considered difficult, requiring excellent physical condition and good sure-footedness due to its varied terrain. Some sections can be rocky, including areas with vertical stone slabs known as "ciaperet," while others feature grassy slopes or muddy patches near the lakes. The path ascending towards Col Longet from Chianale can be particularly demanding. Always wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for significant elevation changes throughout your journey.
A key feature of this hike is the modern Bivacco Enrico Olivero, inaugurated in 2018. This metal and wood structure is strategically positioned between the Longet and Bes lakes, offering panoramic views and serving as a resting point with six beds and solar-powered lighting. The Col de Longet itself is a historic border pass between France and Italy, adding a unique geographical element to your adventure. The area provides a genuine wilderness experience, free of paved roads and vehicle tracks, accessible only by foot or mountain bike.
4.6
(88)
513
hikers
8.41km
04:13
710m
710m
The Lac Bleu Alpine Trail from Chianale is a moderate hike that leads you through diverse alpine scenery. You will ascend 2330 feet (710 metres) over 5.2 miles (8.4 km), a journey that typically takes around 4 hours and 13 minutes. The path winds through fragrant larch forests before opening up to reveal wide-ranging views of the Pan di Zucchero group and the impressive Monviso peak. As you climb, you will encounter the beautiful Cascade de l'Antolina, a waterfall tumbling down the mountainside, marking your entry into a high alpine environment.
To begin your adventure, head to the charming village of Chianale. You can find ample parking along the Varaita River, just after crossing the bridge. This route is part of Piedmont's Heritage Hiking Network, following the well-marked U21 path. While the trail is accessible for much of the year, it is best enjoyed during the warmer months when the alpine flowers are in bloom and the weather is stable. Always check local conditions before you set out.
The highlight of this route is undoubtedly Lac Bleu, a stunning alpine lake known for its vivid blue color, which perfectly mirrors the surrounding peaks. The lake's unique hue comes from the clear rocks beneath its surface, reflecting the sky above. Locals often refer to this dramatic mountain scenery as the "Dolomites of Cuneo," highlighting its striking beauty and rugged grandeur. It is an ideal spot for a peaceful break before your return journey, which offers new perspectives on the landscape.
4.7
(50)
273
hikers
14.2km
07:29
1,270m
1,270m
Embark on a challenging hike to Roc della Niera, a difficult route spanning 8.8 miles (14.2 km) with a significant elevation gain of 4178 feet (1273 metres), typically taking around 7 hours and 28 minutes to complete. As you ascend, you will pass through pine forests and pastures before reaching dramatic scree slopes and rocky sections. The trail opens up to reveal breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Cozie Alps, with notable features like small alpine lakes and the imposing rock formations of Roc della Niera itself.
This trail demands very good physical fitness, sure-footedness, and sturdy footwear. You will encounter technical and exposed sections, including steep ascents, rocky ridges, and even short, easy climbing passages that require careful navigation and hand-on-rock movement. Specialist equipment and prior alpine experience are necessary for parts of this route, especially if you plan to tackle more advanced sections like the Via dei Diedri. The best time to undertake this hike is generally from June to September, when conditions are most favorable.
Roc della Niera, also known as Tête des Toillies in French, stands proudly at 3177 metres on the border between Italy and France. This mountain is often described as "polymorphic" due to its diverse appearance, shifting from a stone pyramid to a powerful rocky tower depending on your viewpoint. The summit offers expansive vistas, allowing you to identify numerous surrounding peaks and appreciate the vastness of the Valle Varaita, a region known for its rugged beauty and peaceful flowering meadows in the lower elevations.
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,550 m
Weather
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Sunday 14 June
16°C
5°C
31 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
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