Alta via valli di Lanzo

Project and management: arch. Paolo Massa Bova Bovat Graphic design and print: Spunto Creativo di Ricchieri Stefania - Lanzo T.se (TO) Texts by: Marta Misurale, Grazia Biorci, Franca Gamberoni Photographs of: Archivio C.A.I. sezione di Lanzo Torinese, Archivi degli Enti Locali e Associazioni, Archivio Consorzio Operatori Turistici Valli di Lanzo, Adoglio Fulvio, Biancolin Valentino, Castagneri Gianni, Macario Ban Mara, Merlo Daniela, Passerana Giancarlo Giorgio, Pessarossi Giacomo Aknowledgments: Paolo Caligaris - Regione Piemonte, Fabio Giannetti - IPLA, Gino Geninatti - C.A.I. sezione di Lanzo Torinese, Livio Barello e Guido Rocci - Consorzio Operatori Turistici Valli di Lanzo, Vittorio Bonino.

EDIZIONE N. 01 DEL 2019

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THE TERRITORY

The territory of Valli di Lanzo is located on the western side of the metropolitan city of Turin and develops along the main hydrographic axes oriented from West to East. It converges into the basin of Lanzo towards the plain that extends between the valleys and the city.

Valley and occupies a large portion of flat land. In such a varied territory extends the ancient road system, now used for hiking, which once was a dense network of connections between human settlements and trans-Alpine passes. Precisely because of the vital importance it represented for the Alpine communities, it was subject to continuous and widespread maintenance work, which until today has supported a richly articulated infrastructure for outdoor activities.

In the area there are numerous hiking trails of different kinds and degrees of difficulty, developed as light infrastructure connecting all the municipalities in the area.

Among the different areas, the Upper Valley consists of three valleys oriented East-West: the Val Grande, the Val d’Ala and the Valle di ViÚ. These three valleys, which are predominantly alpine, mark the border with France with peaks that reach an average altitude of 3500 meters.

The central area, the Middle Valley, extends between Lanzo and Ceres and includes the Tesso and Malone Valleys, which constitute the North-Eastern extension of the area. The secondary hydrographic basins to the Stura di Lanzo give rise to small wooded valleys oriented towards the basin of Lanzo/Germagnano with shallower sections and less steep profiles.

The routes offer numerous routes for hiking or mountain biking, trekking at high altitudes, routes accessible to people with difficulties. In addition to this, there are also numerous hiking trails of local value suitable for daytime activities.

The reading of the territory through the description of its hiking network wants to suggest a conscious use of the landscape by tourists and inhabitants themselves, as a source of well-being and opportunity for discovery and sharing, as a moment of awareness of the fragility of the territory.

The Lower Valley overlooks Parco della Mandria, and the entrance to the Valle di Susa. It is located on the slopes of the first mountain range, and has an open and very panoramic profile towards the Po 3

HIKERS’ ADVISES

The pages of this guide provide hikers with detailed information and descriptions about the routes along which the stages of the long-distance hiking routes extend. This material is available on-line; also in the area you can find additional elements of help and accompaniment, such as hiking vertical and horizontal signs and, a series of notice boards and direct information from tour operators in the major towns.

described here, must have a basic preparation on the fundamental notions of the excursion activity.

In particular hikers should be provided of the necessary equipment in relation to the route to be tackled; should be able to evaluate the environmental and climatic conditions within the Alps; and have a adequate diet and a physical preparation; know topography; be able in orientation and to interpret the signs, have some competence about the flora and fauna, and in Alpine culture; be aware of the rules of behaviour in the refuges, in the bivouacs and along the routes.

However, it is essential that hikers, who intend to take these paths, are prepared with the necessary care to deal with the excursion in complete safety.

In relation to the Alpine environment where the continuous climate and morphological changes can vary the conditions of use and the level of difficulty of the routes.

Despite the constant monitoring and maintenance actions planned by the Local Authorities, sudden climatic and environmental events can change the conditions of practicability of the paths, damaging the signage elements and the aid supports. For this reason, hikers must always proceed with caution and attention and check in advance the conditions of the route through the official information channels and direct contacts with operators in the area.

Each itinerary are classified in relation to the officially recognised difficulty scale for hiking routes, taking into account both optimal environmental conditions and the appropriate level of preparation of the users.

The practice of outdoor activities, hiking, mountaineering and climbing take place entirely in the natural environment and are in any case activities that present risks and those who practice them take full responsibility. Local authorities and operators take precautionary measures to ensure that the various environments operate with a suitable level of safety, but in any case, a residual risk is always present and can never be zero.

Anyone who wants to experience the itineraries 4

E = Hikers Routes on paths or evident traces in various types of terrain (pastures, debris, stones...). They are generally marked with paint or small men (pie- three stacked in a pyramid shape that allow you to identify the path even from in the distance). They can also be signed up in snowy environments, but only in mild slopes. They require special hiking equipment, a sufficient orientation and training for a few hours walk.

They require specific hiking equipment, sufficient orientation skills, and an adequate training for a few hours walk.

EE = Experienced hikers

Routes are generally signed, but there may be some difficulties: the terrain can be made up of slippery slopes of grass, mixed rocks and grass, rocks, snowy slopes or even single rocky passages easy to climb (use of hands in some places). Although these routes do not require any particular equipment, they may provide equipped parts, even if not so demanding. They require a good knowledge of the alpine environment, a good pace and absence of vertigo. The physical preparation must be adequate for a continuous day’s walk.

They require a good knowledge of the alpine environment, surefootedness and absence of vertigo. Adequate training for a day’s walk.

EEA = Experienced hikers with equipment They require an excellent knowledge of the mountains, equipment and the use of self-insurance devices.

The itinerary for which are indicated equipped routes (or via ferrata) require the use of self-insurance devices.

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ALTA VIA DELLE VALLI DI LANZO (AVL)

The route in brief COMMON

Groscavallo - Balme Usseglio

SECTOR

ETON

STEPS

Steps 6 and 3 variants

TOTAL LENGTH

47,10 Km 51,90 Km (with variant 1Bis-Colle della Piccola)

TOTAL DEVELOPMENT

5161 m (up)

DIFFICULT

EE (EEA under sub-optimal climatic conditions and in the presence of snow)

ADVISORY PERIOD

June - beginning of September

CORRESPONDENCE

Inter-regional (connection to Alta Via n°2 of the Aosta Valley)

The itinerary for expert hikers ALTA VIA DELLE VALLI DI LANZO (AVL) is a high mountain crossing (2200-3200 m) that develops through the Southern Alpi Graie, along the border between Italy and France, from the slopes of Levanna Orientale (3555 m) passing near the majestic peaks, also 3500 m, to end at Rocciamelone (3538 m). The route has a total development of about 47 km (52 with the variant for the Colle della Piccola), subdivided in six stages. It develops almost entirely on paths adequately marked. Although the route does not present any particular mountaineering difficulties, it is classified as an EE (experienced hikers) because of the severe high mountain environment in which it progresses. Environment that is even more difficult in bad weather conditions and in the presence of snow or fog. Some parts of the route are particularly exposed.

They require therefore, good skills, safe steps and no vertigo. Where possible, you can find supports for hikers, but everyone has to be careful, and always check both functionality and stability of these supports before securing to them. Appropriate preparation, suitable equipment and good physical training are therefore necessary for this route.

You can start the itinerary north from the village of Forno Alpi Graie walking along the route South, and ending at Malciaussia; or you can start in the opposite direction. In both cases, you can interrupt your trip by means of the many connections downstream and by the different intermediate stages, such as, in particular, halfway to the Pian della Mussa. The stage places are in the refuges that are kept during the summer; while in winter they are always open and equipped with winter rooms. Some stage points there are mere bivouacs, always open as well.

The optimal period for the journey is from late June to early September. The northern principal starting points are Forno Alpi Graie in the Municipality of Groscavallo, the southern ones are Malciaussia in the Municipality of Usseglio.

An intermediate starting point is in Pian della Mussa in the Municipality of Balme. They all are about 60 km far from Turin.

Advisory access Access north From Groscavallo, take the road to Forno Alpi Graie where the path to Daviso Refuge begins.

Medium access From Balme city, take the road to Pian della Mussa where the path to the Gastaldi Refuge begins.

Access south From the town of Usseglio, follow the road to Malciaussia where the path to the Daviso Refuge begins.

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STAGE 1 - Forno Alpi Graie - Refuge Daviso From the small square at the end of the village Forno Alpi Graie, starts on the right a wide dirt road. It passes the bridge over the stream Gura. It continues on the orographic right bank and enter the forest (path n. 315). After having passed a steep rocky wall, the path makes some turns on the left, and then continues north-west on a moderate slope. Once reached a large peculiar rock, you have to turn left on grassy hills, and following a ridge, you arrive to group of chalets. The path continues behind these buildings, passes near an isolated hut, and then, uphill, reaches a long plateau. After having crossed some streams, the path arrives at the stream Gura (on the left, a secondary track connects to path n. 316). You have to cross the two branches of the torrent on the available temporary pathways, and walking northwest describing a wide semicircle, you arrive to Gias Milon (1993 m). You pass the houses and turn right (north) on a stone paved track below a rocky wall. When you reach the altitude of 2120 m, you turn left into a long plateau where do stand the houses of Gias Gran Pian (2132 m). At the end of the plateau, turn right, and go up the steep grassy hill where is Refuge Daviso.

Technical Notes Departure: Groscavallo, Forno Alpi Graie (1219 m) Arrival: Groscavallo, Refuge Daviso (2280 m) Difficulty: E Length: 6,1 Km

Difference in altitude: 1061 m Travel Time: 3,30 h Trail Sign: 315 Halfway Point of connection with: no

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STAGE 1Bis - Forno Alpi Graie - Refuge Daviso VARIANT COLLE DELLA PICCOLA From the village of Forno Alpi Graie follow path n. 318, on the left bank of the stream Gura. The route runs along the stream Stura up to “La California� cliff. Here you turn right, and reach and pass over Gias Colombin (1666 m). You continue half-coast you will find a crossroad. You take the path n. 318 that leads to Gias Pian di Sotto, leaving on the left the path n. 318A. You continue along the path n. 318 that goes to the western side of the Barrouard. Be careful and stay on path n. 318 when you have to turn left at the crossroad with the path n. 318B. The latter, in fact, descends to Gias Nuovo Fontane. You continue going up the slope, carefully following the horizontal signs on the rocks in the places where the track is not so evident. Finally you reach the Colle della Piccola (2704 m). From the pass you can enjoy a wide sight towards Gran Paradiso.

In direction SW following path n. 315A, cross steep meadows by means of a half-coast path, and you will arrive to Colle di Fea (2597 m). From here, on flat stretches and along the good path n. 315A, you will shortly reach Refuge Paolo Daviso.

Technical Notes Departure: Groscavallo, Forno Alpi Graie (1219 m) Arrival: Groscavallo, Refuge Daviso (2280 m) Difficulty: EE Length: 10,9 Km

Difference in altitude: 1890 m Travel Time: 6/7 h Trail Sign: 318 - 315A Halfway Point of connection with: no

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STAGE 2 - Refuge Daviso - Bivouac Gias Nuovo and Soardi Fassero From Refuge Daviso you go down and cross walking half-coast many ups and downs along a steep grassy slope, which has many crossing streams and is interrupted at its base by high jumps, over the ravine of the Gura stream. That way you reach Ricovero Ferreri. After having passed the bivouac (path n. 316) you must be careful because the path passes on ledges particularly exposed, and it is easy to lose the correct track. On the right, you cross a little valley and its stone channel, from where springs out Rio Bramafam. You go head towards a grassy ledge, with ups and downs, that cuts the basal part of the stone wall from right to left. Once reached a rock basin, you go up on the right and climbing through some rocks, you arrive to a second ledge.

This latter is characterized, halfway, by a large boulder attached at the wall. You go, without your rucksack, into the small space between the rock and the wall, and then, from the end of the ledge, go up through debris, to a third and final ledge, which allows you to arrive the wide channel culminating with the pass. You go further on snow and stones, and climb a low rocky area and on solid rock banks placed near the Passo delle Lose (2866 m). From the pass, you can enjoy a wide sight of the Gruppo della Gura, of the Levanna Orientale; of the Uja di Ciamarella (3676 m) and the Albaron di Sea (3261 m).

You the descend on the southern side (path n. 316) along an easy ledge from left to right, thus reaching the base of the rocky wall below the pass; you continue through a wide basin of stone, then through some rocky banks and grassy slopes and finally reach the Alpe Gias Piatou (2200 m). At the beginning of path n. 308 you can choose between two options: 1. climb up left to the Bivouac Soardi Fassero. You continue along a grassy crest that goes up parallel to the valley, and at the first crossroad, take the path on the right (neglecting the one on the left). After the rest, you will still need to go back on the same way to go down to Gias Nuovo, where the next stage starts.

2. go down through path n. 308 and reach the plateau Gias Nuovo (1893 m), where next to the pasture stands a newly built bivouac.

Technical Notes Difference in altitude: 750 m (up) Travel Time: 4,30 h Trail Sign: 316 - 308 Halfway Point of connection with: no

Departure: Groscavallo, Refuge Daviso (2280 m) Arrival: Groscavallo, Bivouac Soardi (2297 m) / Bivouac Gias Nuovo (1893 m) Difficulty: EEA Length: 6 Km

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STAGE 3 - Bivouac Gias Nuovo - Refuge Città di Ciriè From Gias Nuovo you walk to the bottom the long plateau; you descend amid low vegetation, and reach the Alpe di Sea (1785 m). You cross the creek on the bridge and proceed on the right (path n. 309); and you follow a path that goes up amid low vegetation. You continue eastward uphill in half-coast, and leave on the left the track that arrives to Passo dell’Ometto. From here begins a difficult and exposed stretch.

It is necessary to be careful because of possible detachments of stones from the wall above. In case of bad weather conditions, it is strongly recommended not to go through this passage, as it is subject to discharges of water and stones.

You continue on the right (path n. 310) on the morainic terrain, in direction of the northern slope of Punta Rossa. At the foot of the rocky wall, the path turns on the right, and leads on a ledge about 2 meters wide, close to a low but steep leap. You walk along the path that cuts wall with ups and downs, and then go further on a first ridge, and then you descends and cross a canal. After having passed the second crest, the path goes through a ravine, then goes up with narrow hairpin bends, and passes a steep ramp. After this passage, the path continues and goes over two other crests, not so evident, and eventually arrives to a ridge from which it is well visible the Ghicet di Sea. After a slight descent, you start climbing again on a wide, but shallow, gorge cluttered with stones. Once reached the little valley that culminates at the pass, you go further along a narrow and less visible trace up to the cut located 2750 m, between the Punta Rossa (2910 m) South and the Albaron di Sea (3261 m) north-west. You go down south/west (path n. 226). Eventually follow the track that goes along the right of the stone channel of the Rio della Ciamarella. At the end of the canal, you lean left and reach the picturesque Piano della Ciamarella. You pass along the Ciamarella pasture, take the right (orographic left) and descend through a little valley until you reach a hut. Once passed by it, you’ll shortly arrive to the Refuge “Città di Ciriè” (1860 m).

Technical Notes Departure: Groscavallo, Bivouac Gias Nuovo (1893 m) Arrival: Balme, Refuge Città di Ciriè (1860 m) Difficulty: EEA Length: 10,1 Km

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Difference in altitude: 1040 m Travel Time: 6 h Trail Sign: 308 - 309 - 310 - 226 Halfway Point of connection with: no

STAGE 3Bis - Bivouac Gias Nuovo - Bivouac Molino/Refuge Città di Ciriè

VARIANT PASSO DELL’OMETTO From Gias Nuovo you take the long plateau to the bottom; descend amid low vegetation and reach the Alpe di Sea (1785 m). Then you cross the creek on the bridge and proceed on the right (path n. 309). You follow a path that passes amid low vegetation. Continue uphill half-coast, eastwards, and take the trail that climbs on the left to Passo dell’Ometto. You continue on the steep western ravine and arrive to the pass (2614 m). You go downhill from the pass on path n. 233 and follow the white and red signs to the Bivouac Molino (2280 m) which is near path n. 233 in I Fondi zone. It is possible to stop at the bivouac, in order to divide in two days the stage that leads up to the Pian della Mussa. Starting from the Bivouac Molino, after the descent to Alpe Le Piane (2032 m), turn westward on path n. 232 and shortly after on n. 232A, with which you reach, shortly up, Lake Mercurin (2497 m). You go around the lake on the southern bank, along path n. 227, and then go further onto a steep ravine, full of inconsistent debris, until you reach Lake Ru (2585 m). After having passed the lake, you will appreciate a very panoramic plateau facing the balcony of the Val d’Ala, and eventually you reach the Alpe della Rossa (2230 m). You proceed walking, and take the path on the right at the crossroad.

Path n. 226A descends to the Pian della Ciamarella. You cross Rio della Ciamarella and reach quickly along the n. 226 the Refuge Città di Ciriè (1860 m).

Technical Notes Travel Time: 8 h Trail Sign: 308 - 309 - 233 - 232 - 232A - 227 226A - 226 Halfway Point of connection with: no

Departure: Groscavallo, Bivouac Gias Nuovo (1893 m) Arrival: Balme, Refuge Città di Ciriè (1860 m) Difficulty: EE Length: 15,5 Km Difference in altitude: 1467 m

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STAGE 4 - Refuge Città di Ciriè - Refuge Cibrario You go down from the refuge and take the dirt road on the right. After having crossed the river Stura over a wooden bridge, go along the Alpe Venoni: a characteristic bergeria protected by a curious rock. The path n. 222 continues along the lower part of the Canale delle Capre, then turn left and, with many hairpin bends, quickly takes up altitude. At 2300 m you reach the Pian dei Morti, a large grassy saddle where you have a sight on Pian della Mussa. You leave on the right path n. 223 that leads to Pian Gias and, first in diagonal, and then with wide hairpin bends, you reach the base of a small rocky wall. The path bends on the right, passes near some easy rocky jumps, which are equipped with iron foot support, and enters a wide ravine that easily leads to a pass. From here, you see the Refuge. You walk along the last flat stretch to reach in a few minutes the Refuge Gastaldi and its panoramic position on the wide basin of the Crot del Ciaussinè and the other surrounding peaks. From the Refuge follow the good path n. 222 that descends south to the basin of the stream Arnas. You then climb the detrital slopes, passing by, on the right, the Rocca Affinau. You continue that way and take path n. 222A towards a rocky wall, walking amid rocky slopes and large boulders.

Remaining at the base of the rocky wall, with a last ascent, you can reach the wide plateau of Collarin Arnas 2851 m. You continue south (path n. 122) on large detrital slopes in mild ascent: You pass near Lake Collarin (2839 m), and reach the end of the rocky wall that closes north the basin of Lake Rossa. The Bivouac San Camillo stands on the left just after the crossroad with the path n. 119. Walking along a track that descends on the left, with a zigzagging not evident path, you reach the plateaus around the lake, close to the barrier.

From here, follow the ENEL dam and continue on path n. 122; you walk along a first plateau full of debris and ground; then a second one. You turn left to get to the foot of a rock jump. This is carved, from right to left, by an evident stone channel. You go up until you face on the right a small detritic valley. Going onwards over debris slopes, you will arrive to Colle Altare (2901 m), evidenced by a small stone. From the pass, you go down S-E along a canyon of debris. You have to avoid, on the left, the rocky wall. You will then pass near the upper Lake of Pera Ciaval (2762 m). You continue passing through meadows spotted with lakes; you descend towards the rocky wall, which is crossed by a waterfall, and finally you arrive to Refuge Cibrario (2616 m), in Pera Ciaval.

Technical Notes Departure: Balme, Refuge Città di Ciriè (1860 m) Arrival: Usseglio, Refuge Cibrario (2616 m) Difficulty: EE Length: 11,6 Km

Difference in altitude: 1353 m Travel Time: 6,30 h Trail Sign: 222 - 222A - 122 Halfway Point of connection with: no

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STAGE 5 - Refuge Cibrario - Refuge Tazzetti From the Refuge Cibrario, which is crossed by several streams of water that bathe Pian dei Sabbiunin (path n. 122), you rise on the steep slope of debris and boulders that starts in front of the building. When you arrive at the height of the second of the two ditches that open on the right, you proceed in this direction, overtaking it. When you reach a wide rocky crest, bend on the left of the glacier of Bertà. You go through it for a while, and then descend passing on the flat surface of the glacier, and continue in the little valley between Testa Sula and mount Lera-Sulè. You reach the base of the slope, slightly steeper, which precedes the plateaus of the col Sulè (3063 m). You go down on the opposite slope through a snowy and detrital valley. At the end of which the path turns left on a plateau through a good mule-track that runs down. Further, downstream, trail n. 122 turns towards the Colle dell’Autaret. You turn left, downhill, on the n. 111A, which then becomes flat; and along the steep slope of Punta Sulè. Path n. 111A towards south-west, passes under a rocky wall, crossed by several waterfalls, called Pis, and then goes diagonally towards south, passing several streams (Rio Costan, Rio Avril, the Rio del Fort and the Rio Cavalla Nera). The path climbs over a crest and shortly reaches the Refuge Tazzetti at Fons Rumour (2642 m).

Technical Notes Departure: Usseglio, Refuge Cibrario (2616 m) Arrival: Usseglio, Refuge Tazzetti (2642 m) Difficulty: E Length: 8 Km

Difference in altitude: 957 m Travel Time: 5,30 h Trail Sign: 122 - 111A Halfway Point of connection with: no

STAGE 5Bis - Refuge Cibrario - Refuge Tazzetti VARIANT ROCCIAMELONE From Rifugio Tazzetti, you follow the path that crosses with bends the steep slope behind the building and reaches a marked ridge that comes from the Colle della Resta.

Walk along the ridge to the base of the shale bastion that supports and directs the Glacier de Rochemelon; pass it following the trail tracks that lead to the watershed line, a short distance from the glacier. Colle della Resta (3183 m).

Go down to the flat spread of the Glacier de Rochemelon and cross it south-westwards. You will arrive to a creek on the north-west ridge. You climb up the mild hill to the top.

The only part of this route that could be unsafe is the wall of stones that leads to the Colle della Resta. Hikers should proceed close each other, carefully in order to avoid the movement of unstable stones. Just below the summit there is a Refuge, always open, with fifteen beds.

As the refuge is a popular destination, it could be overbooked. On clear days, from the top you’ll appreciate a 360° wide sight.

Technical Notes Departure: Usseglio, Refuge Tazzetti (2642 m) Arrival: Rocciamelone (3538 m) Difficulty: EE Length: 13,5 Km

Difference in altitude: 896 m (up) Travel Time: 4 h Trail Sign: 111 Halfway Point of connection with: no 13

STAGE 6 - Refuge Tazzetti - Lake Malciaussia From the Refuge you go down on the right and pass Rio Rumur on path n. 111. Proceed diagonally on a stretch half-coast, and then descending the numerous hairpin bends you reach Rio Medagliere. Continue along numerous ups and downs on the right hydrographic bank and you reach, close to the basin of Lake Malciaussia, the crossroad with path n.114 towards Colle Croce di Ferro. You cross the river Stura di ViĂš , and then pass in front of the Pietramorta Hut; you proceed around the lake along the dirt road and you shortly arrive to Refuge Vulpot (1805 m) near the dam.

Technical Notes Departure: Usseglio, Refuge Tazzetti (2642 m) Arrival: Usseglio, Lake Malciaussia (1805 m) Difficulty: E Length: 5,3 Km

Difference in altitude: 837 m (down) Travel Time: 3 h Trail Sign: 111 Halfway Point of connection with: no

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Hikers’ facilities Refuge Daviso Locality Grange di Fea, 10070 Groscavallo x +39 0123 506749 R www.rifugiodaviso.it Opened: from June to September STAGE 1 - STAGE 1Bis - STAGE 2 Bivouac Soardi Pian di Giavenot, Val Grande di Lanzo Management: CAI Uget Torino Opened: all the year Beds: 12 STAGE 2 - STAGE 3 Refuge Città di Ciriè Locality Giasset, Pian della Mussa, 10070 Balme x +39 0123 738158 - +39 329 2141782 +39 370 3329300 v info@rifugiocirie.eu R www.rifugiocirie.eu Opened: all the year Beds: 24 STAGE 3 - STAGE 3Bis - STAGE 4 Bivouac Molino (2280 m) Locality I Fondi, 10070 Balme Opened: all the year Beds: 24 Management: C.A.I. Lanzo Torinese STAGE 3Bis Refuge Cibrario (2616 m) 10070 Usseglio x +39 011 9988830 v rifugiocibrario@caileini.it R www.caileini.it/rifugiocibrario/ Opened: from June to September Beds: 42 STAGE 4 - STAGE 5

Ricovero Rocciamelone Opened: all the year Beds: 15 STAGE 5Bis Refuge Vulpot Hamlet Malciaussia, 10070 Usseglio x +39 0123 83771 v rifugiovulpot@gmail.com R www.rifugiovulpot.com Opened: from June to September Beds: 24 STAGE 6

Suitable for ✓ Itinerary of historical and cultural interest × Itinerary for Mountain-bikes × Bridleway × Winter itinerary × Itinerary suitable for disabled people

For more information www.cailanzo.it www.turismovallidilanzo.it R www.rifugiodaviso.it R www.caiuget.it R www.rifugiocirie.eu R www.caileini.it/rifugiocibrario/ R www.rifugiotazzetti.it R www.rifugiovulpot.com R R

Refuge Tazzetti 10070 Usseglio x +39 0123 756165 - +39 338 7578910 v info@caichieri.it R www.rifugiotazzetti.it STAGE 5 - STAGE 5Bis - STAGE 6

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UPPER VALLEY

GROSCAVALLO

ELEVATION

1060 m a.s.l.

POPULATION

204 (November 2017)

DISTANCE FROM TURIN

49 Km

TOWN BOUNDARIES

Ala di Stura, Balme, Ceres, Ceresole Reale, Chialamberto, Noasca, Francia

PATRONAL FESTIVAL

Santa Maria Maddalena 22 July

ACTIVITIES SUMMER Hiking Trekking Alpinism Climbing Mountain Bike Hang-gliding

WINTER Cross-country skiing Ski mountaineering Snowshoes

It is said that the name Groscavallo derives from Graus Vald (green valley). If you just have a look around, in fact, this definition is really appropriate.

Groscavallo is in fact the last inhabited center of the Val Grande di Lanzo, lying on a green plateau, it enjoys of the vision of the mounts Levanna Orientale (3619 m), Uja della Gura (3395 m) and Ciamarella (3676 m).

Once passed the village, nature dominates the entire basin on the top of the valley that opens up into the marvellous Vallone di Sea. The alpine environment seems frozen at a time when only animals dared to venture so high among expanses of beech, larch and spruce. Ibex, chamois and marmots live undisturbed in the valley, where the only traces of men are represented by characteristic stone pastures houses, now no more active, but well-preserved.

The torrent Stura crosses the valley impetuously, giving the territory an even more wild aspect. Although there are also news about Groscavallo dating back to the beginning of the eighteenth century, it is from the nineteenth century that the village began to attract the attention of tourists passionate of the mountains, and pilgrims.

In fact, the construction of the Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Loreto at the entrance of Vallone di Sea dates back to 1757.

CURIOSITY

Over time, Groscavallo has maintained its characteristic and has become also a point of reference for hikers and climbers. Today, Groscavallo is ideal destination for those who want to experience the mountain in its wildest and most fascinating aspects.

1914

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It seems that some of the scenes of the film Cabiria, written in part by Gabriele D'Annunzio, were shot inside Villa Pastrone.

MUST SEE

Vallone di Sea: The Vallone di Sea extends from Groscavallo (1060 m) to Col di Sea (3100 m), and opens up wild and intact among meadows and vertical rock walls. Since 1982, the walls of the valley have been explored and practiced by Italian and foreign climbers. Since then, the site has attracted more and more sportsmen and passionates of rough climbing over and within edges and fissures of all sizes.

Villa Pastrone: Hamlet Richiardi, 10070 Groscavallo Belonging to Giovanni Pastrone, director of the movie Cabiria and creator of Italian silent films, the edifice is a particular example of an Art Nouveau villa: three floors, surrounded by a large park adorned with secular trees and an elegant fountain. An eccentric henhouse in the shape of a giant egg makes the villa even more special. You can appreciate the villa only from the outside.

Pian dei Morti Path: www.cailanzo.it Excursion of about four hours that leads from the town of Groscavallo to the Pian dei Morti. The path climbs up a mule track, plunges into a beautiful larch grove, cuts half-coast towards Gias di Mezzo (2092 m) and then passes a plateau where is Lake Vercellina (2488 m).

From here, the path climbs to Colle della Crocetta (2641 m) and then descends to Ceresole. This is a traditional route that between 1720 and 1730 has been the scene of a bloody dispute between the inhabitants of Groscavallo-Bonzo and the ones of Ceresole. From this event derives the name of the place.

Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Loreto: Locality Forno Alpi Graie, 10070 Groscavallo A staircase of 444 steps leads you to the Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Loreto at the entrance of Valle di Sea. The Sanctuary was built in 1757, and was an important pilgrimage destination. As a matter of facts, inside there are about three hundred votive offerings, of which the oldest dates back to 1751. On the tronet of the main altar is exposed the wooden statue of the Madonna Nera, so called because her head and that of the Child are made of ebony wood.

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The path of the gold mines of Pera Cagna: R www.cailanzo.it Easy walk overlapping the GTA path till the medows of Alpe Trione. At the beginning of the path is the strange rock that is told to be the entrance of rich silver (gold) mines. To proceed further towards the lakes and the pass of Trione implies a greater effort and a good training.

Path of the Gran Lago di Unghiasse: www.cailanzo.it This way, impressive for its length, leads to appreciate the magnificent beauty of the alpine lakes around. The trek is characterised by rocky cliffs, blossoming medows and active pastrures. The walk is quite long so is recommended to expert and well trained hikers.

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NOTES Food and Drink

Bivacco Ferreri (2230 m) x +39 011 546031 R www.cailanzo.it Opening: All year round

Ristorante Cit Ma Bun Piazza 8 Villagi, 10070 Groscavallo x +39 340 9212001 - +39 347 9762572

Bivacco M Rivero (2554 m)

Albergo Ristorante Savoia Via Santuario 5, 10070 Groscavallo x +39 0123 81042

Bivacco Soardi - Fassero Pian di Giovanot (2297 m) x +39 0123 82900 R www.cailanzo.it Opening: All year round

Trattoria Ca’di Martu’ Via Ciamarella 2, 10070 Groscavallo x +39 0123 81084

Rifugio Paolo Daviso Locality Vallone Gura x +39 011 4522898 - +39 0123 506749 R www.cailanzo.it Opening: June-September

Albergo Ristorante Setugrino Corso Roma 10, 10070 Groscavallo, Italia x +39 0123 81016 Albergo Ristorante Pialpetta Piazza San Lorenzo 1, 10070 Groscavallo x +39 0123 81044

Tourist information

Accomodation

For further information about the municipality, accommodation, hiking routes and events, please visit the following sites:

Albergo Ristorante Pialpetta Piazza San Lorenzo 1, 10070 Groscavallo x +39 0123 81044

www.comune.groscavallo.to.it www.prolocogroscavallo.altervista.org R www.turismovallidilanzo.it R www.cailanzo.it R www.montagnapertutti.org R www.rocciatorivaldisea.wordpress.com R R

Albergo Ristorante Savoia Via Santuario 5, 10070 Groscavallo x +39 0123 81042 Albergo Ristorante Setugrino Corso Roma 10, 10070 Groscavallo, Italia x +39 0123 81016 Bed & Breakfast Fermata Alpi Graie Via Giuseppe Sobrile 1, 10070 Groscavallo x +39 0123 738128 v fermatalpigraie@gmail.com R www.fermatalpigraie.com

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UPPER VALLEY

BALME

ELEVATION

1432 m a.s.l.

POPULATION

111 (November 2017)

DISTANCE FROM TURIN

57 Km

TOWN BOUNDARIES

Ala di Stura, Groscavallo, Lemie, Usseglio, Francia

PATRONAL FESTIVAL

Holy Trinity, The First Sunday after Pentecost

ACTIVITIES SUMMER Hiking Trekking Mountaineering Climbing Mountain Bike Sport Fishing

Balme is the most elevated village in Val d’Ala (1432 m above sea level). It is the last village before the valley opens in the large plain called Pian della Mussa.

WINTER Nordic Skiing Downhill Ski Snow Shoe Baby Ski Touring Ice Skating

connoisseurs of the mountains peaks, became expert alpine guides and let earn to Balme the title of “cradle of the Turin alpinism” and “alpine guides village”.

Today Balme is the ideal place for experience an immersion in the purest alpine environment.

The spectacular alpine’s peaks amphitheatre around Balme makes it a unique place. From here, in fact, one can admire the highest mountains of the Lanzo valleys: Mount Bessanese (3604 m) and Mount Ciamarella (3676 m) which mark the border between Italy and France. The mounts Mount Albaron di Sea (3,262 m asl), Mount Punta Rossa di Sea (2908 m), and Mount Uja di Mondrone (2964 m) separate Val d'Ala from Val Grande; while Mount Punta Servin (3108 m) and Mount Torre d'Ovarda (3075 m) delimit the border with Val di Viù.

The natural landscape around Balme alternates green fields and suggestive woods of beech, larch, birch and pines, which surround rich areas of rhododendrons, junipers and blueberries. The river Stura crosses the valley and collects the water coming from the upper mountains’ streams and lakes.

CURIOSITY

This rich and varied environment is the ideal habitat for bouquetins, chamois, roe deers and marmots that can be seen abundantly all the year-long and at very close distance. Frequent sightings are confirmed in Pian della Mussa and in the neighbourhood of the alpine refuges Ciriè and Gastaldi. Alpine croaks, hawks, buzzards, bearded vultures and eagles have found their home between the mountain peaks and the sky above Balme.

From the second half of the 19th century, Balme, which used to be inhabited by shepherds and miners, began to attract the interest of Italian and foreign alpinists because of the spectacular nature of its mountains.

For this reason, many residents who were keen 19

1874

At Christmas Eve, Antonio Castagneri, a balmese guide, together with the alpinists Martelli and Vaccarone, climbed for the first time in winter the mountain Uja di Mondrone. This successful event launched the winter alpinism as a sport.

1896

Adolf Kind uses the first pair of ski to reach Pian della Mussa starting from Balme.

1922

The aqueduct of Pian della Mussa is inaugurated.

Still today it brings water to Turin.

1927

Toni Ortelli, fascinated by Pian della Mussa, composed the famous song La Montanara.

MUST SEE

Pian della Mussa: Pian della Mussa is a vast grassy plateau which occupies a large area shortly above Balme, at an altitude between 1700 and 1850 meters. It is crossed by the torrent Stura.

Originally the plain was covered by a glacier, which later became a lake. The wide region is surrounded by many peaks of the Graie Alps. From the steep side of the mountains around the plateau, run several streams flowing into the torrent Stura. Pian della Mussa is an historical and traditional destination for excursions and trekking, and it is recognized as a site of Community interest.

La Gorgia Waterfall: Village centre, 10070 Balme La Gorgia (the gorge) is a wonderful waterfall of the river Stura that, right in the centre of the village, makes a leap of tens of meters. A 19th century bridge surpasses the waterfall, allowing to admire it in all its magnitude.

Fortress Ruciàss: Via Capoluogo 15, 10070 Balme x +39 0123 55135 Built at the end of 1500 perhaps by the will of Giovanni Castagneri Ljnch, the fortress Ruciàss is an imposing defensive structure, conceived in order to let its inhabitants to reach oven, wash, fountain and chapel without ever going outside the building. This was particularly important in winter to cope with the usual great snowfalls.

Val Servin Circular Path: www.cailanzo.it It is a pleasant route along the Servìn Valley near Balme. The path is walkable in summer, and in winter with snowshoes. The circuit allows to discover what remains of the centuries-old man’s work: prehistoric engravings, an ancient natural glacier, an abandoned village where, in the Middle Ages, miners coming from Savoy, Bergamo and Val Sesia originally settled. The route runs in a intact environment, among large beech and larch woods, rock walls and iced falls. Here it is easy to find herons’s footprints, while they are busy in fishing in the frozen pools of the stream; or to catch sights of chamois, roe deers and many other inhabitants of the forest.

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Ecomuseo delle Guide Alpine:

x +39 0123 82902 - +39 347 6488387 v info@comune.balme.to.it

www.ecomuseobalme.it The Alpine Guides Ecomuseum is located in the ancient seat of the Municipality. Inside one can find all the documentation that tells the story of the origin and development of Balme as protagonist of the Turin alpinism in the 20th century.

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NOTES Food and Drink

Ristorante Albaron di Savoia Villaggio Albaron 7, 10070 Balme x +39 339 8720825

Caffè Nazionale Via Roma 8, 10070 Balme x +39 0123 820009

Accomodation

Bar Centrale Via Capoluogo 98, 10070 Balme x +39 0123 233014

Agriturismo La Masinà Locality Pian della Mussa, 10070 Balme x +39 0123 820021 - +39 347 4439384 v info@agrimasina.com R www.agrimasina.com

Minibar Ciamarella Locality Pian della Mussa, 10070 Balme x +39 0123 320382 - +39 347 8768531

Bed & Breakfast Gloria Hamlet Cornetti 83, 10070 Balme x +39 338 2471376 v gloria.bb@libero.it

Ristorante Bricco Locality Pian della Mussa, 10070 Balme x +39 0123 82842

Antico Albergo Camusot Via Capoluogo 21, 10070 Balme x +39 0123 82837 - +39 328 2032750 v camusot@tiscali.it

Trattoria Alpina Pian della Mussa Locality Pian della Mussa, 10070 Balme x +39 0123 820010 - 338 1250466 v info@trattorialpina.it R www.trattorialpina.it

Villa Teja Bed & Breakfast Hamlet Cornetti 71, 10070 Balme x +39 349 4478557 v villatejabnb@gmail.com R www.villateja.com

Val Servin Pizzeria e Trattoria Hamlet Cornetti 76, 10070 Balme x +39 0123 820067 - +39 346 5219724 Rifugio Les Montagnards Hamlet Cornetti 73, 10070 Balme x +39 347 3634082 v info@lesmontagnards.it R www.lesmontagnards.it

Bivacco Gandolfo ai Laghi Verdi Open all year - 8 beds

Antico Albergo Camusot Via Capoluogo 21, 10070 Balme x +39 0123 82837 - +39 328 2032750 v camusot@tiscali.it

Rifugio Città di Ciriè Locality Giasset, 10070 Balme x +39 0123 738158 - +39 370 3329300 +39 329 2141782 v info@rifugiocirie.eu R www.rifugiocirie.eu

Bivacco Molino all’Uja di Mondrone Open all year - 24 beds

Agriturismo La Masinà Locality Pian della Mussa, 10070 Balme x +39 0123 820021 - +39 347 4439384 v info@agrimasina.com R www.agrimasina.com

Rifugio Gastaldi Locality Ciausinet, 10070 Balme x +39 0123 565008 - +39 348 3691127 v info@rifugiogastaldi.com R www.rifugiogastaldi.com

Rifugio Città di Ciriè Locality Giasset, 10070 Balme x +39 0123 738158 - +39 370 3329300 +39 329 2141782 v info@rifugiocirie.eu R www.rifugiocirie.eu

Rifugio Les Montagnards Hamlet Cornetti 73, 10070 Balme x +39 347 3634082 v info@lesmontagnards.it R www.lesmontagnards.it

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NOTES Appartamento Curnet Hamlet Cornetti 65, 10070 Balme x +39 347 6466862

Pakinò Ski Lift Locality Balme, 10070 Balme x +39 346 4333416

Sport

Tourist information

Aghieri Ecocampus Via Capoluogo 139, 10070 Balme x +39 340 9574181 v info@exploravita.org R www.ecocampuslaghieri.com

For further information about the municipality, accommodation, hiking routes and events, please visit the following sites: www.comune.balme.to.it www.turismovallidilanzo.it R www.cailanzo.it R www.montagnapertutti.org R www.tourdellabessanese.eu R

La Ghieri Skating Rink Locality Ghieri, 10070 Balme

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Basket and Volley Camp Hamlet Cornetti, 10070 Balme

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UPPER VALLEY

Comune di USSEGLIO

ELEVATION

1265 m S.l.m.

POPULATION

209 (December 2014)

DISTANCE FROM TURIN

60 Km

TOWN BOUNDARIES

Balme, Bruzolo, Bussoleno, Chianocco, Condove, Lemie, Mompantero, Novalesa, Francia

PATRONAL FESTIVAL

Santa Maria Assunta 15th August

ACTIVITIES SUMMER Hiking Trekking Mountaineering Climbing Sport Fishing

WINTER Hiking Snowshoes Cross Country Skiing Ski mountaineering

Lying on a wide plateau, the municipality of Usseglio is located in the highest part of the Valle di Viù and is surrounded by numerous peaks that exceed 3000 meters in altitude. To the West, the imposing pyramid of the Rocciamelone (3538 m) closes the valley and marks the border with France. The Mount Croce Rossa (3566 m) overlooks Lake della Rossa (2718 m), and Mount Torre d'Ovarda (3075 m) acts like a barrier to the North with the Val d'Ala and the massif of Mount Lera (3355 m). This latter’s shape looks like a sleeping giant, and this image characterizes the panorama of the country.

The plateau, crossed by the river Stura di Viù, is part of an alpine environment that is made up of beech and larch woods, meadows and oaks that host groups of chamois and ibex. The territory is characterised by the presence of three large artificial lakes, Lake Malciaussia (1085 m), Lake Dietro la Torre (2366 m) and Lake della Rossa. created years ago during the realization of the projects of exploitation of the hydroelectric power plants and of the mines of cobalt, iron and copper.

Some votive areas affirm the ancient presence of the Romans in the area. The complex edifice of the parish, built between the eleventh/twelfth and the eighteenth century right in the middle of the plan of Usseglio, provides an insight into the activity of the country in medieval times. From the end of the nineteenth century, the town of Usseglio was included in the circuits for vacations and mountaineering, interest that led to the construction of villas and hotels in Art Nouveau style, which are still admirable today, along with the large offer of excursions and activities that can be practiced on the territory.

CURIOSITY 218 aC

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According to some recent reconstructions, it seems that Hannibal and his troops passed the Alps, through Colle d’Autaret (3077 m) and Colle Arnas (3010 m), and then descended towards what is now the village of Usseglio.

Sites of regional interest Sagna del Vallone: Peaty plain crossed by a stream where you can find rare Arctic-Alpine plants and mosses.

MUST SEE Il Bosco - Museum for all: Locality Sirès - Hamlet Pianetto, 10070 Usseglio x +39 0123 83702 v info@comune.usseglio.to.it The "Bosco Museo per tutti" is a project developed by the Municipality of Usseglio. It consists of a network of equipped footpaths to led visitors along the tracks of animals, and plants living in the area.

Site of regional interest Lac Falin: It is a humid mountain area, in which there are plants and mosses of considerable rarity.

System of artificial lakes: An interesting feature of the area surrounding Usseglio is the presence of three artificial lakes created at the beginning of the twentieth century for the exploitation of hydroelectric plants. These splendid ponds of water, Lago Malciausia, Lago della Rossa and Lago Dietro la Torre are located between 1800 and 2718 meters above sea level, and are a pleasant destination for excursions and walks.

Museo Civico Alpino “Arnaldo Tazzetti”: Piazza Cibrario, 10070 Usseglio x +39 0123 83702 v museocivicousseglio@vallediviu.it R www.vallediviu.it Launched in 2004, the Museum is composed of various sections and houses mineralogical, faunal, botanical, archaeological, pictorial and ethnographic collections typical of the territory.

Vulpòt Mill: Hamlet Villaretto, 10070 Usseglio The mill, which dates back to at least the seventeenth century, is a testimony to the agricultural traditions of the village. Probably it belonged to the family Vulpòt, from which it takes its name. Thanks to a structural and functional refurbishing is now an interesting site to visit.

Path of the Decauville: www.cailanzo.it The Decauville is a narrow-gauge railway, whose track is made by elements that can be disassembled and reassembled quickly. This system was used in the sites of the mines. In Usseglio the railway was installed in the Twenties to facilitate the movement of materials from Lake Malciausia to Lake Dietro La Torre. The Decauville is well preserved today and can you can walk through it passing near the places of the history of Usseglio.

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NOTES Food and Drink

Albergo Rocciamelone Via Roma 37, 10070 Usseglio x +39 0123 83743 v albergo.rocciamelone@gmail.com R www.albergorocciamelone.com

Ristorante Pizzeria Il Caminetto Via Balma 5, Hamlet Margone 10070 Usseglio x +39 347 8188856 R www.ilcaminettomargone.it Albergo Ristorante Furnasa Via XXIV maggio 16, 10070 Usseglio x +39 0123 83747 - +39 0123 83788 v furnasa@libero.it R www.ristorantehotelfurnasa.com

Area Camper comunale x +39 0123 83702 v info@comune.usseglio.to.it Bivacco San Camillo Lake della Rossa 2735 m Opening: Open all year

Albergo Rocciamelone Via Roma 37, 10070 Usseglio x +39 0123 83743 v albergo.rocciamelone@gmail.com R www.albergorocciamelone.com

Casa Alpina San Vincenzo Via XXIV Maggio 3, 10070 Usseglio x +39 011 543979

Rifugio escursionistico Vulpot Hamlet Malciaussia, 10070 Usseglio x +39 0123 83771 v rifugiovulpot@gmail.com R www.rifugiovulpot.com

Casa Alpina Santo Stefano Via XXIV Maggio 6, 10070 Usseglio x +39 011 4347273 Caserma Rocciamelone Via XXIV Maggio 14, 10070 Usseglio

Albergo Grand’Usseglio Via Roma 21, 10070 Usseglio x +39 0123 83740 - +39 0123 326310 v info@hotelgrandusseglio.com R www.hotelgrandusseglio.com

Rifugio escursionistico Vulpot Hamlet Malciaussia, 10070 Usseglio x +39 0123 83771 v rifugiovulpot@gmail.com R www.rifugiovulpot.com

Accomodation Albergo Grand’Usseglio Via Roma 21, 10070 Usseglio x +39 0123 83740 - +39 0123 326310 v info@hotelgrandusseglio.com R www.hotelgrandusseglio.com

Rifugio Luigi Cibrario x +39 0123 83737 v rifugiocibrario@caileini.it R www.caileini.it/rifugiocibrario Rifugio Tazzetti x +39 0123 756165 - +39 338 7578910 v info@caichieri.it R www.rifugiotazzetti.it

Albergo Nei e Soleil Hamlet Pian Benot, 10070 Usseglio x +39 0123 83731 - +39 335 5473038 v info@pianbenot.it R www.pianbenot.it

Sport

Albergo Ristorante Furnasa Via XXIV maggio 16, 10070 Usseglio x +39 0123 83747 - +39 0123 83788 v furnasa@libero.it R www.ristorantehotelfurnasa.com

Volley and soccer terrain Via Roma, 10070 Usseglio x +39 0123 83743

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NOTES Tourist information

Mini Golf Via Roma 12, 10070 Usseglio x +39 347 0337818 v stadiodelghiaccio.usseglio@hotmail.com

Per ulteriori informazioni riguardo il Comune, la ricettivitĂ , gli itinerari escursionistici e gli eventi si consiglia di vistare i seguenti siti: www.comune.usseglio.to.it www.turismovallidilanzo.it R www.cailanzo.it R www.montagnapertutti.org R

Public Children's Play Area Via Roma, 10070 Usseglio v info@comune.usseglio.to.it

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