Cima del Pelvo

Access: From Briançon, cross the Col de Montgenèvre and, at Cesana Torinese, head towards Bousson and Sauze di Cesana. Continue towards Granges Sises and, on the climb through the woodland, turn right down towards the Argentera Valley. Follow the track for about 5 km to the fenced car park designated for this hike. This track, which alternates with tarmac sections, is in very good condition and therefore suitable for all types of vehicle.

(S/E) Take the path at the far end of the car park. This crosses the pastures and then climbs into the forest.
At the next junction (not shown on the map), ignore the sign for Madonna del Balme on the right and take a sharp left.
The path crosses the Torrent del Pelvo and then climbs to 2,340 m. From there, it follows a route not shown on the map, as the old path no longer exists.

(1) Our path turns left, crosses a slightly exposed slope and then disappears, giving way to a series of cairns which must be followed closely.
Head up the valley to the south-east.

(2) Turn right and head south-west from cairn to cairn through the scree, keeping close to the base of the north-west face of Punta Serpentiera.

Climb up the clearly visible left-hand gully that runs along the foot of the right-hand ridge of Punta Serpentiera.
Do not go through the gap as shown in the video, as this is more difficult. Follow a small path marked by a few cairns, tackle the steep scree slope on its left-hand side, then reach the Col del Pelvo. The Cima del Pelvo is to the right of the pass.

(3) Climb the north-western ridge line, staying on its left flank and zigzagging a few times up to the secondary summit. Go round it to the left, then head straight for the summit to the right, marked by its ornate cross.

(4) Return in the opposite direction via the same route to your car park (S/E).

I have made a video showing the route and the atmosphere of this walk.