La Routo Trail: Borgo San Dalmazzo - Valloriate

This section of the La Routo Trail is rated as difficult. The Italian portion of the La Routo is generally more demanding than its French counterpart, featuring steeper terrain and higher altitudes. If you start from Borgo San Dalmazzo, the trail immediately begins with an ascent towards the Moiola hills.

The hike from Borgo San Dalmazzo to Valloriate typically takes around 6 hours (approximately 21,930 seconds) to complete, covering a distance of about 21.5 kilometers.

This specific section of the La Routo Trail connects Borgo San Dalmazzo and Valloriate. You can start from either town. For parking, it's advisable to look for public parking areas within Borgo San Dalmazzo or Valloriate, as specific trailhead parking is not detailed. Consider public transport or arranging a shuttle if you plan a one-way hike.

The route offers diverse and picturesque scenery. You'll encounter expansive chestnut groves, especially when departing from Valloriate, and enjoy elevated views above the Stura river. The trail passes through charming stone hamlets like Roccasparvera and Gaiola. Notable highlights include the Roccasparvera Dam, Porta Bolleris, and the Historic Center of Valdieri. Near Moiola, the Chapel of Assunta offers panoramic views over the valley.

The La Routo Trail is deeply connected to the historical practice of transhumance, which involves seasonal movement. Generally, late spring, summer, and early autumn are the best times to hike this route, offering pleasant weather and clear paths. Always check local weather forecasts before you go, especially for mountain sections.

While many trails in the region are dog-friendly, specific regulations for this section of the La Routo Trail are not provided. Given its historical use for livestock, it's highly recommended to keep dogs on a leash to protect local wildlife and livestock you might encounter. Always clean up after your pet.

There is no mention of specific permits or entrance fees required to hike this section of the La Routo Trail. It is generally accessible to the public. However, it's always a good idea to check the official local tourism websites, such as visitstura.it, for any updated information before your trip.

Yes, this route utilizes sections of several other paths. You will find yourself on parts of the Chemin pastoral de Valloriate à Borgo San Dalmazzo, Arancione, and Itinerario Cicloturistico Valle Stura, among others.

Given the trail's difficult rating and varied terrain, you should bring sturdy hiking boots, sufficient water, snacks, sun protection, and appropriate layers of clothing for changing weather conditions. A map or GPS device is also recommended, as well as a first-aid kit.

This section of the La Routo Trail is a point-to-point route, connecting Borgo San Dalmazzo and Valloriate. It is not a loop trail, so you will need to arrange transportation for your return journey or plan to hike it as part of a longer multi-day trek.

Absolutely. The La Routo Trail is part of the larger GR69, a historic transhumance trail tracing ancient paths used by shepherds and their flocks for centuries. Hiking this route means following in the footsteps of generations, connecting you to a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage of seasonal livestock migration. You'll pass abandoned villages and elements of pastoral life embedded in the landscape.