The steep, limestone cliffs of the Punta Marguareis make
it one of the most striking mountains in the region. Acting
as a barrier between the cool continental air of northern Italy
and the warmer maritime air to the south, the mountain often
stands above the pernicious nebbia (fog) that envelopes northern
Italy during the winter. On clear days from its summit one may
see to Mediterranean Sea and even (supposedly) to Corsica to
the south; to the north, Monviso, the source of the river Po,
and as far as Mont Blanc may be visible. Of course with its
high altitude (2651 meters) the weather can turn nasty up there
at any time of year - walkers attempting the summit should come
prepared for high altitude conditions. Most people take two
days to climb the peak. Below a loop is  outlined
from Rifugio Garelli, the first day encompassed in the climb
to the rifugio (see previous section for details). Alternative
routes are described, including a cross-border trek that can
be accessed by train and a wonderful loop around the mountain
- one need not actually climb the peak to have great panoramic
views, and some of the nicest paths are in the lower regions
of the massif.
From Rifugio Garelli, get an early start in the morning
and be sure to have a good breakfast - it is a difficult climb
of over 600 meters vertical from here. Climb to the east of the
rifugio (not toward the laghetto), and ascend steadily up the
Porta Sestrera (30 minutes from the rifugio). Descend the
other side of the pass, then head toward the right (south) on
a less-well defined trail that traverses a bowl. Continue to Lago
Rataira, and ascend on the trail G5 to the Colle
del Pas, a broad ridge some 45 minutes from Porta Sestrera.
From the top of the pass, continue down for some ten minutes,
until painted markers on two large rocks point the way to 'Marguareis'.
Follow this little path as it steeply ascends to the Colle
Palù: loose rocks and scree would make this path very difficult
if wet. After another 45 minutes, the pass is attained; continue
up the final ridge to the summit of Punta Marguareis, attained
after another half-hour.
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After a lunch break on the summit, descend the crest of
the main ridge to the south, reaching the Colle del Lago dei
Signori and Rifugio Barbera after about an hour. Here
there are fine views of the craggy south faces of the Punta Marguareis
and other peaks, as well as into nearby France as well. Continue
on the dirt road past the rifugio, taking the first left after
about twenty minutes toward Rifugio Volante and Colle del Pas.
Ascend steadily, curving around several minor cols (where there
are wonderful flowers in spring) until the Colle del Pas is in
sight. Pass above the Rifugio Volante and at the top of the Colle
del Pas (one hour) retrace the path to the Porta Sestrera
and back to Rifugio Garelli (45 minutes).
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