Start at Refuge Granero (1) early morning. Several routes are possible.
We chose to head towards Col Sellière (2834m). Pass over the lake spillway, reach a ridge and climb up a steep slope in a south-west direction (about an hour to reach the pass).
Once you reach the pass (2), head back down due south to reach Refuge du Viso.
At the first intersection (3), head east towards Tunnel de la Traversette. It's quite a steep climb here too, heading up a trail through scree leading to col de la Traversette (2900m) built in 1480.
(4) The tunnel allows you to avoid the climb up to the pass. The bordering ridge was set to facilitate merchandise transport (salt from Provence), it was then used for military uses. The tunnel's entrance was redone in 2015. The tunnel (2 m high and 75 m long) is quite narrow. It leads to Italy at Buco di Viso overlooking "la plaine du Pô". Head down the alpine trail following the "sources du Pô" until you reach Piano del Re. In clear weather, Monte Viso rises spectacularly into the sky over Piémont. Unfortunately, the valley is often surrounded by clouds.
Once you reach Piano del Ré (5) head towards Lac Fiorenza. Before starting the climb up, notice a slab of rock with the inscription "Qui nasce il Po". Walk along Lac Fiorenza and head towards Refuge Quintino Sella. The climb up starts on a huge trail. Pass over Lac Chiaretto.
At the crossing keep heading towards Refuge Quinteno Sella (6). The last two hours will be in among scree with neves. The hike is well indicated. Go past Col du Viso and head down towards Refuge Quintino Sella (2640m) (7) which is at the foot of Monte Viso.
