Bessanese's Tour

Bartolomeo Gastaldi Refuge (2659 m)

The refuge

Dining room

Entrance

Bedroom

Access:
Once you have reached and driven by the characteristic little town of Balme, continue on the main road heading for the beautiful Pian della Mussa- Mussa Plateau. Drive along the plateau following the indications until you reach the last ramp that leads to the Refuge Citta' di Ciriè - City of Cirie'. Leave your car in the parking area just before the last ramp.

Upward slope:

• Departing site: Pian della Mussa (1787 metri)
• Hihing time: 2 h 30 m.
• Hiking difficulty: E (Medium hiking rate)

Get hiking by crossing the road towards a quite large trail that turning slightly on the left will lead you to a wooden bridge spanning over the stream . Once crossed , proceed towards the ancient Alpe Rocca Venoni (1845 m), protected by a characteristic projecting spur and once close to the buildings turn to right starting to ascend the lower side of the Canalone delle capre – The Goat slope -Once you have managed to achieve a significant rising level move yourself on the left hand side, thus reaching a flat open range patched with some rocky plates that may have a slippery surface ; Beware ! It may be a hazard walking on them . You have now reached the Pian dei Morti – The dead people plateau - and the Gias of the Naressa. At the trail junction, turn to the left leaving behind you the remains of a high mountain's hut ; note that the trail on the right will lead you to the Pian Gias – Gias plateau – and the surrounding crests . Proceed on the main track in a slanting direction, ascend a steep slope and keep following the many turns featuring the wiggly trail. A stunning view of the mountains' crests nearby will capture your heart and will indeed leave you breathless .
Once you have passed by the rocky flanks of the Rocca Turo – Turo Rock – turn to the right ascending a little gradual slope that will quickly lead you to the Crot of Ciaussine' plateau, where the refuge stands .
Those who would like to head for the Rocca Turo should take a noticeable mule track that will lead them to a slightly evident ridge sloping down beneath the Rocca Turo, then bend to right and hike up the rise. Rapidly you'll reach a shelf and from there you will arrive on the top, where a little cross stands, after having traversed a shallow depression .