In Valle Tanaro, for example, you can go up the southwestern slope of the Bric Mindino that towers over the town of Garessio and begin scouring the horizon until you identify the profile of the Ligurian Sea. In the Monregalesi valleys, the ascents towards Mount Pigna or the Durand peak are particularly suitable, with moderate slopes offering unexpected views of the Piedmontese plain and the entire western Alpine arc. With more naturalistic and spiritual connotations, however, the San Bruno ring route in Valle Pesio departs near the charming Charterhouse of Santa Maria that dates back to 1173, then plunges down into the Marguareis Park.

Moving to the Valle Vermanagna the characteristic Capanna Chiara is then within reach, clinging 1,500 meters above sea level to the vertical drop of Limone Piemonte and affording an enviable panorama of the town and the entire Riserva Bianca. On the other hand, the Saben peak is an excellent panoramic point facing the Gesso and Stura Valleys. There are several accesses that lead to its summit, from Valdieri, and Sant’Antonio di Aradolo, but also from the Valle Stura passing through Moiola or Andonno. Similar points of interest can be found in the neighbouring Stura Valley, going up from the Bagni di Vinadio towards the sunny village of San Bernolfo, characterized by unique architectural traditions and home to the hospitable Dahu de Sabarnui Refuge.

From the wonderful Sanctuary of San Magno in Valle Grana, visitors can reach the wild Colle d’Esischie, moving through the land known for the dairy production of Castelmagno D.O.P. and along the sinuous hairpin bends busy in summer with amateur cyclists. The scenic charm of the Valle Maira continues during the winter months and the itineraries of particular worth include the ascent of the Vallone d’Unerzio, starting from Chialvetta and arriving in Viviere (home of the homonymous and elegant refuge) or in Prato Ciorliero.

The Bagnour refuge with its scent of stone pines, is another favourite destination for a winter snowshoe hike in the Alevé forest, in one of the many unmissable corners that characterize the upper Valle Varaita. In the Valle Po, you can finally reach the 2,375 meter-high Ostanetta peak with an ascent that is not easy, but offers a privileged view of the Monviso group and an excellent descent towards the plain. A hike on snowshoes to discover the Cuneo mountains, then, immerse yourself in a world suspended in time and space, where the breath of winter dialogues quietly with the most authentic nature.