Valle Argentera

Nice loop that passes by Rifugio Alpe Plane. We did the loop clockwise, so to get to the refuge there is a steep difference in altitude with a less than optimal surface. Perhaps doing the loop counterclockwise the climb is gentler, but you have to face this more complex descent.

My first visit to the Argentera Valley, in a captivating winter setting. The scant sunlight keeps the snow powdery and glistening in the first rays of the sun, making the climb even more beautiful. As long as I could follow the beaten track, I pedaled easily, surrounded by the peace and silence of these gentle plateaus alternating with groves and the water features of the Ripa stream. Then, when the climbs got steeper, I had to put on my crampons and carry my bike. Thus we reach the Pian della Milizia, where the sun finally warms us, and all the way to the refuge, it's a continuous blend of marvelous landscapes to admire. Seeing the imposing peak of the Ramière and its pass from the opposite side brought back fresh memories of summer hikes in the mountains. This is why I find it hard to leave the mountains, even though the snow, beyond its incredible charm, makes climbing up very difficult.

Day 6: today we ride for real! Once again in Valle Argentera, yesterday a restful walk, but today we cover the whole valley starting from the parking lot next to the Terribile bridge and going up to the Gran Mioul and Le Planes pastures. The route is on a carriage road, easy at the beginning but after the wooden bridge at Pian della milizia, the road starts to climb and the terrain becomes difficult, I'm forced to take many breaks, also because today the sun beats down here! However, I reach the Alpeggio Gran Mioul, I wanted the cheese to appear but I find only the dogs waiting for me, so I decide to go back down by hand for a while to prevent them from running after me 😱 I then head towards the Alpeggio Le Planes, buy the desired cheese and take a well-deserved coffee break. Then I go back down, and as soon as the road allows it, I allow myself a very fast descent!🚵🏼‍♀️

After several years, as they say... I'm dusting off a really nice Argentere-Bergerie Gran Miol tour from the drawer. Splendid day.