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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
710 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
13.8 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4.5-6h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Il Piano del Praiet

Panorama from the Il Piano del Praiet hike in Alpi Marittime National Park, Italy
Measurement:

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Table of contents

Il Piano del Praiet, at the foot of Mount Gelas, has been a well-known hiking destination in the Alpi Marittime throughout history. On the northern slopes of the Gelas is one of the last glaciers in the Alpes-Marittime fading quickly due to climate change. From there, you can reach the Colle di Finestra, and walk down into France on an old salt-smugglers’ trail.

Route Description for Il Piano del Praiet

From San Giacomo you take the road that starts between the Rifugios and continues into the beech trees next to the river.

After some bends through the woods, the track opens up to the valley, but the path always follows along the river, making it hard to get lost.

You’ll walk past some pastures up to the Piazzale dei Cannoni. From here you take the track that climbs up. You’ll continue to the Peirastretta canyon and onto the pastures of the Conca del Praiet. Above you sits the Gelas, (3,143 m), and the Cougourda, (2,921 m). For the local climbers, these mountains have an almost “mythic lore” about them.

The Rifugio Soria (1,840 m) is the end-point of this walk. This Rifugio is one of the most popular Rifugios in the park. It lays atop some rocks on the left of the Praiet.

After a stop at the Rifugio, you’ll return the way you came to get back to your car.

Insider Hints for Il Piano del Praiet

  • From the Praiet you can reach two passes: the Passo di Fenestrelle, to the north-west, and the Colle della Finestra, to the south. The Rifugio Soria is also a basecamp when climbing the Gelas, as well as a basecamp for skiers.
  • We recommend checking out the Rifugio San Giacomo. They are famous for their stone-milled polenta.
  • Sotto il Fagio is a great camping option in the area. If you have your own sleeping bag or blankets you can rent tents and air mattresses from them.

Getting to the Il Piano del Praiet Trailhead

When you arrive in Valdieri, go straight and after 1.2mi go left to Entracque. Then go right to San Giacomo after 3.7mi. You can park the car here. To reach the path, pass the bridge on the left.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    May to end of October

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    Yes, on site, or in San Giacomo

  • Toilets:

    Yes, At San Giacomo

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Il Piano del Praiet Elevation Graph

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