Gardetta Plateau loop from Canosio

The itinerary I propose is a circular tour across the Gardetta plateau, a suggestive promontory crossed by a perfectly maintained former military road and a crossroads of the Maira, Stura and Grana valleys.

The route requires good physical preparation and familiarity with off-road riding - I covered it entirely with a gravel bike without problems - but it also lends itself well to being interpreted by mountain bike.

Before leaving, make sure you have enough water and food, as the area does not offer many refreshment options.

The departure is from the small village of Canosio, where you will find signs for Preit. The first part of the climb is on an asphalt road: proceed carefully, the climb that awaits you is quite demanding. Soon, on your left, you will notice a colorful structure: the Lou Lindal refuge, if you need to refuel one last time, is your good opportunity.

The second part of the climb to the Preit pass is really tough, in some places you may have to zigzag to stay in the saddle, but the beauty of the panorama is unique.

Once you reach the Preit hill, the dirt military road begins and winds along the Gardetta plateau. To keep you company along the ascent you will be able to spot, among the surrounding meadows, numerous marmots intent on their typical calling whistle.

From here on, there are no words to describe the beauty that surrounds you and every now and then you will spot some ancient military structure in ruins, such as the Bandia barracks.

The highest point of this itinerary is the Fauniera hill, located at 2,481 meters above sea level. Once reached, the descent begins, almost entirely on an asphalt road that takes you back to the starting point.