Starting point: Borgata Ponte Maira 1401 m – Municipality of Acceglio

Highest point: Monte Estelletta 2316 m

Walking time: 4.5/5 hours

Exposure: North/North-West

Type of itinerary: round trip

Route

The route starts from the small village of Ponte Maira (1,401 m), where there is ample parking.
From the starting point, you walk through the vast snow-covered meadows that open up in front of you, with a gentle slope at the beginning. After an initial stretch in open terrain, the route enters a larch forest. Here, the climb becomes progressively steeper but remains steady, with moderate gradients. It is important to maintain a steady pace, paying attention to a few short sections that are slightly steeper or icy due to springs.

Continuing to climb northwards, you will reach a small, charming isolated hut in the woods. From this point, continue slightly to the right until you reach a dirt road at an altitude of around 1,616 metres. Follow it for about 300 metres, then turn left, climbing back up into the open meadows and continuing northwards.

The route then enters the woods again, continuing uphill until it reaches an area known as Fontana Fredda (about 2,000 m). From here, you can enjoy a first panoramic view behind you of Rocca Provenzale, while in front of you, the Colle Ciarbonet pass begins to clearly emerge.

Finally, you reach Colle Ciarbonet (2,206 m) by following the summer route, which is generally easy to follow even in snowy conditions.

The pass marks the point of passage to the open ridges. From Colle Ciarbonet, you can enjoy the first view of the upper Maira Valley and the surrounding peaks. This is a good place to take a short break and check the snow conditions before continuing.
From the pass, the route leaves the woods and continues along the open ridge on the left. The slope is constant but regular, with grassy terrain and sporadic rocks under the snow. The view gradually opens up: you can see the slopes of the valley, the villages below and the surrounding mountains. This stretch is very scenic and allows you to proceed with confidence, paying attention to the more exposed sections in case of wind or crusty snow.

The arrival at the top offers a complete view of the Maira Valley and the main Alpine peaks. Here you can stop to admire the view, take photos and recover your energy before the descent.
The descent follows the same route as the ascent, returning via the ridge, Colle Ciarbonet and the woods to Ponte Maira. It is important to proceed with caution on steeper slopes, where the snow may be compact or crusty.

WARNING: Winter hiking, like all outdoor activities, is potentially dangerous.

You must be properly equipped and know how to use an avalanche transceiver.

For information on snow conditions and avalanche risk, consult the AINEVA bulletin: https://bollettini.aineva.it/bulletin/latest.

For weather forecasts: www.arpa.piemonte.it/bollettino/previsioni-meteorologiche