The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Cuneo

Embark on the Monte Bert e Lago Nero loop for a moderate hiking experience in Italy's Valle Maira. This 7.0-mile (11.2 km) route, with 2252 feet (686 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 4 hours and 39 minutes to complete. You will traverse varied terrain, from old military roads and well-defined trails through larch forests to grassy ridges on the ascent to Monte Bert. Along the way, enjoy spectacular panoramic views, including the imposing Rocca la Meja and the vibrant green plateau of Gardetta. The emerald waters of Lago Nero, reflecting Monviso on clear days, offer an enchanting sight amidst sparse larch woods and alpine meadows.

To begin your hike, head to Grange Selvest, where the loop typically starts by following a dirt road and then trails. While the trail is generally moderate, some sections require good physical fitness and sure-footedness. The total duration can range from 4 to 6 hours, depending on your pace and any stops you make. Consider hiking in autumn, as the larch trees around Lago Nero display particularly vibrant colors during this season.

This trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical elements. You will encounter old military roads that add a historical dimension to your journey. Keep an eye out for scattered

Hike the Ascent to Lago Nero —Ring tour for extraordinary panoramas in the Italian Alps' Valle Maira. This moderate 5.8-mile (9.4 km) loop takes about 3 hours and 59 minutes to complete, climbing 1976 feet (602 metres) through larch forests and pastures. You will cross a wooden bridge near Grange Selvest and follow paths that lead to the beautiful Lago Nero, whose crystalline waters reflect the surrounding larches and, on clear days, the impressive Monviso. Look out for Rocca la Meja in the distance as you make your way around the lake basin, before descending through Grange Chiacarloso and Grange Colombero.

This ring tour is generally considered a moderate hike, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness, but it is also family-friendly. The trail typically begins from Grange Selvest, located shortly after Preit di Canosio, and loops back to this starting point. The route predominantly features natural paths and mountain hiking trails, with some sections on unpaved roads and a small portion on paved road. Spring and summer are particularly good times to visit, offering pleasant conditions for your adventure.

Lago Nero itself is a pristine alpine lake, serving as the highlight of this popular destination. The route offers captivating mountain scenery and panoramic views of the Valle Maira. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like marmots and chamois amidst the rich alpine vegetation. If you are interested, small detours on the way back can lead you to the Alpine tombstone or the Pis del Passet waterfalls.

Embark on the Ascent to Lake Sant'Anna — Ring tour, a moderate hike that takes you through stunning alpine scenery. This 5.7-mile (9.1 km) loop involves a total elevation gain of 1755 feet (535 metres) and typically takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete. You will find varied terrain, from comfortable former military mule tracks to more rugged, rocky sections, some even equipped with metal ropes and chains. The route encircles the Testa Auta del Lausfer, offering panoramic views and passing by numerous alpine lakes, including Lago di Sant'Anna and Lacs Lausfer.

The trail is generally considered accessible if you have a good fitness level. It is classified as 'E' (Escursionistico), indicating its moderate nature. The highest point you will reach is approximately 2,460 meters. You can often start your hike from the historic Sanctuary of Sant'Anna di Vinadio. Be prepared for sections with metal ropes and chains, especially where the path has eroded. No specific information on permits, fees, or seasonal closures is provided, so it is advisable to check local conditions before your visit.

This route offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, traversing parts of both Italian and French territory in the Stura Valley. As you hike, you will encounter remnants of past conflicts, including trenches, guardhouses, barracks, and barbed wire along the former military mule tracks. The starting point, the Sanctuary of Sant'Anna di Vinadio, adds to the historical context, dating back to the 12th-13th century.

Embark on a difficult 11.5-mile (18.5 km) hike from the Valasco Plain to the lower Valscura lake, gaining 3223 feet (982 metres) in elevation over approximately 7 hours and 12 minutes. You will traverse the spectacular Valasco plateau, often called a paradise on earth, with its two waterfalls. The route ascends through sparse larch patches and rocky areas, following ancient mule tracks and former military roads, some perfectly paved. As you hike, you will discover the beautiful Lower Valscura Lake and the glittering blue Lake Claus, with expansive views of snow-capped mountains.

This challenging hike requires very good fitness, sure-footedness, and sturdy shoes; alpine experience is recommended. Be prepared for steep sections and wide detritic valleys. If you plan to hike in colder conditions or after snowfall, crampons might be essential due to potential icy sections. The presence of Rifugio Valasco and Rifugio Questa along the way offers convenient spots for breaks, meals, or even an overnight stay, enhancing your alpine experience.

This popular excursion in the Maritime Alps is known as the “Mountains of Kings” because it was once part of King Vittorio Emanuele II's hunting reserve. The route utilizes ancient military roads built in the 1930s for the Vallo Alpino war system, which are considered masterpieces of engineering. You can still see the Casa di Caccia of Valasco, an ancient hunting lodge now serving as a refuge. The trail connects several picturesque alpine lakes, including Lower Valscura, Claus, and Portette, making it a truly notable journey.