Path of Plaisentif

The hike from Villaretto Superiore to Selleries Refuge is considered difficult and typically takes around 5 hours and 55 minutes to complete. This duration can vary based on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The terrain is varied. You'll start on a steep road from Villaretto, which leads to hamlets like Villaretto Superiore, Serre, and Borgata Seilleraut. An older path marked with yellow triangles and the number 2 also intersects this road. Beyond Selleiraut, the path widens through well-maintained meadows, passes through a beautiful beech and larch forest, and may involve narrow turns on grassy slopes before the final ascent to the refuge. It recovers old trails and mule tracks.

This trail is notably associated with the 'Plaisentif' or 'violet cheese,' an ancient local cheese produced in the alpine pastures. It's part of a larger 'gastronomic trek' connecting hamlets and alpine dairies where this unique cheese is made. You'll experience the 'true' world of the mountains, with opportunities to see traditional alpine communities and diverse Cottian Alps scenery.

Along the route, you'll pass through traditional hamlets with characteristic alpine architecture, including houses, sundials, fountains, and ovens. Key highlights include Borgata Seilleraut, the Spring Below Grange Sors, and the Madonna della Neve Chapel, Seleiraut, before reaching the Selleries Hut.

Yes, if you're looking for a shorter and less strenuous option, you can start your hike from Selleiraut. This reduces the elevation gain to approximately 506 meters and the hiking time to about 1.5 to 2 hours, compared to starting from Villaretto Superiore.

While the Orsiera Rocciavrè Natural Park generally welcomes dogs, it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with grazing livestock or protected wildlife. Ensure your dog is fit enough for a difficult hike and that you carry enough water for both of you.

The best time to hike this route is typically from late spring to early autumn. Early summer is particularly beautiful, as it brings an explosion of alpine flora, adding vibrant colors and scents to the landscape. Always check local weather and trail conditions before you go.

The trail officially starts from Villaretto Superiore. For parking, you would typically look for available spots in or near Villaretto Superiore. Specific parking information might be available locally, so it's advisable to check for designated parking areas upon arrival.

Generally, there are no entrance fees or specific permits required for hiking within the Orsiera Rocciavrè Natural Park for day use. However, always respect park regulations, such as staying on marked trails, not disturbing wildlife, and carrying out all your trash.

Yes, this route covers sections of other trails. Approximately 12% of the path overlaps with the Rocca la Dent trail, and about 8% coincides with the Sentiero Agostino Benedetto.

The Orsiera Rocciavrè Natural Park is rich in biodiversity. You can expect to see diverse alpine flora, especially in early summer. The park is home to various wildlife, though sightings can be elusive. Keep an eye out for grazing cattle in high-altitude meadows and listen for birds in the beech and larch forests.