The Brignola and Raschera Lakes

Description:

Starting from the Balma plateau (1883 m) take the mule track that winds through fields and bushes, until you reach the base of the calca- reous rock known as “Dente del Seirasso”. Following the route alongside the Brignola stream, you come to the homonymous Sella (1930 m). After two hairpin bends the track becomes a path and cros- ses the basin of the Brignola Lakes. The main lake (2131 m) is partially covered by lake vegetation and sur- rounded by fields and rhododendron bushes.

Continue along the path that climbs in a south-easterly direction and arri- ve at Bocchino della Brignola (2256 m) from where it is possible to see “Punta dello Zucco” and Monte Antoroto looking eastwards. From here you then descend towards a green basin, down gentle hairpin bends. After negotiating a ridge, you can see the northern slope of Monte Mongioie and, by continuing the descent by means of the sign posted track, you will reach the Raschera Lake (2108 m), from which the deli- cious locally produced P.D.O. cheese takes its name.

In summary

 Departure point: Frabosa Sottana - Prato Nevoso - La Balma refuge Arrival point: Raschera Lake Gradient: see “description”

Time required: uphill only 3 h, round trip 5 h 30 min
Degree of difficulty: medium Links to other routes: climb to Bocchino dell’Aseo, to Monte Mongioie, link with Val Corsaglia Access:

•    from Turin: A6 motorway, exit Mondovì. From Mondovì proceed in the direction of Villanova Mondovì until you reach Frabosa Sottana. Proceed uphill towards Prato Nevoso and then continue by car to the La Balma refuge (1883 m). It is possible to park your car on the clearing surrounding the refuge and the chapel.

•    from Cuneo: take the SP 564 del Monregalese road as far as Pianfei and then SP 37 road to Frabosa Sottana. Then follow like above. 

Source: ATL Cuneo