Highlights and tour details
Interesting historical-environmental stage that introduces to one of the most striking areas of the Waldensian Valleys. The route touches several important places, also remembered for events related to the resistance: Temple of Pradeltorno, Collegio dei Barba, Barma Monastira, Barma dl’Ours.
From Alpe Vandalino, descend towards Sea di Torre and follow directions for the Agriturismo Barfè, trail 140A, to Prato Stella (1294 m) where we enter trail 140. The itinerary develops on flat ground in the alpine pastures above the level of the woods with a view of Val d’Angrogna, goes past several “cumbals” and forests which are no longer used: Cialaroccia (1336 m) and Sapè (1390 m) to reach Embergeria (1381 m), a small alpine pasture which is still in operation, a connection point with trail 138A that leads to the “Al Sap” Refuge in about 20 min.
From Embergeria descend into the wood passing by Borgata Ramà and by Palai, theatre of events related to the persecutions of the Waldensians and of the Resistance, to reach the bridge of Lausa (970 m) which crosses the Angrogna stream. From here, following the road of the valley bottom climb to Pradeltorno (1000 m), last refuge during the period of the persecutions of the Waldensians from the 15th century to the 17th century. Continue to the Waldensian Temple of 1876 and to the "Collegio dei Barba", where a traditional 16th century “schola” was rebuilt, in which the travelling Waldensian preachers (called “barba”) met secretly to study theological texts. You go on to reach the forest track, Trail 141 for Borgata Fau, leaning against a huge rock. Continue along a trail that touches the cottages of Turle (1150 m), reaches a fortress from where you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama and, shortly after, leads to the houses of Barma Monastira, built in the shelter of a large rock. The trail goes into the wood as far as Barma dl’Ours (1183 m). In 1944, it was the site of the secret typography of the Partisan groups of Justice and Freedom. From here, follow the directions of the Partisan trails (direction Bagnau) to reach the “Ca d’la Pais” (1422 m), a structure which was bombed in January 1944 by the Nazi-Fascists during an operation to combat Partisan activities. It was rebuilt forty years later by the Waldensian community of Angrogna to turn it into a meeting centre, dedicated to peace and reconciliation among peoples. From here, a dirt road, trail 150 A, leads quickly to Colle della Vaccera (1465 m).
Attractions
Temple of Pradeltorno, Coulege dei Barba, Barma Monastira, Barma d'Ours,Ca d'la Pais, Colle Vaccera
Support points
Jumarre Refuge, Vaccera Refuge, Agriturismo Monte Servin, Alpe Vandalino Bivouac, Agriturismo Barfè
Access
It is possible to reach the locality of Prà del Torno or Colle Vaccer with your own means of transport
Other information
Source: Unione Montana del Pinerolese
Itinerary code: AVV
Phone coverage:
wind : 80% coverage vodafone : 66% coverage tim : 60% coverage
Recommended period: It is recommended to do the stage between spring and autumn as some parts can be difficult (e.g. Bars d'la Tajola) and to avoid the rainy periods
Historical interest: Yes
Access by public transport: Yes
Classification: Medium and low mountain provincial
Provinces crossed: Torino
Notes on public transport
Departure, arrival and municipalities crossed
Stages
- Anello delle Valli Valdesi (AVV) - Val Pellice (119,00 km)
- Waldensian Valley Loop (AVV) Stage 1: Torre Pellice Town Hall - Alpe Vandalino (12,20 km)
- Anello delle Valli Valdesi (AVV) Stage 2: Alpe Vandalino - Colle Vaccera (15,80 km)
- Waldensian Valley Loop (AVV) Stage 3: Colle Vaccera - Alpe Caougis (15,30 km)
- Anello delle Valli Valdesi (AVV) Stage 4: Alpe Caougis - Bergerie Giulian (17,00 km)
- Anello delle Valli Valdesi (AVV) : Stage 5 Bergerie Giulian - Conca del Prà (13,60 km)
- Waldensian Valley Loop (AVV) Stage 6: Conca del Prà - Barbara Lowrie Refuge (12,60 km)
- Anello delle Valli Valdesi (AVV) Stage 7: Rifugio Barbara Lowrie - La Palà (19,40 km)
- Anello delle Valli Valdesi (AVV) Stage 8: La Palà - Municipio di Torre Pellice (13,10 km)