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Monte Viso

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Monte Viso (Italy)

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Monte Viso, often called Monviso, is the highest peak in the Cottian Alps of Northwest Italy, reaching an elevation of 3841 meters. Because it rises over 500 meters above any surrounding peaks, its distinct pyramid silhouette is visible from across the Po Valley and even as far as the French Riviera. A site of immense geographic importance, its base at Pian del Re (2020 m) is the official source of the Po River, Italy's longest waterway. The mountain is primarily composed of eclogite, a dense metamorphic rock formed from ancient oceanic crust subducted and then uplifted during the creation of the Alps. The first ascent was recorded in 1861 by William Mathews. Today, the mountain is the centerpiece of a UNESCO Cross-Border Biosphere Reserve between Italy and France, recognized for its exceptional alpine biodiversity. The 'Giro del Viso' is a classic multi-day trekking route that circles the massif, offering memorable views of the 'King of Stone'.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-5-40481316151161-4
Rain mm444454637859434353719661

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
Monte Viso is reached via the Po Valley, with Crissolo in the upper Valle Po serving as the primary gateway and starting point for access.
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Best season
The peak season for climbers is from July to September, when normal routes are mostly snow-free and mountain huts are fully operational.
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Terrain & paths
This is an extremely rugged and rocky high-altitude mountain in the Cottian Alps, featuring steep faces and a prominent pyramidal peak.
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What to bring
Full alpine clothing, a helmet, and mountain boots are necessary; trekking poles are useful for the circuit, and ropes for the summit climb.
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Parking
Parking is available at Pian del Re, the source of the Po River, or in Crissolo, from where shuttle buses may operate during the summer.
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Safety
Climbing this 3,841-meter peak requires alpine experience and sure-footedness; be aware of rockfall hazards in the gullies and chutes.
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Time needed
The ascent to the summit is a two-day trip with an overnight stay in a hut; the full circuit around the mountain typically takes 3 to 4 days.

Geography

Coordinates
44.66750, 7.09110

Facts

  • Elevation of 3841 meters
  • Source of the Po River at its base
  • First successful ascent in 1861
  • UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2013
  • Visible from the Mediterranean on clear days
  • Highest peak in the Cottian Alps

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Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Monte Viso (4)

Parco Naturale Regionale del Monviso🌿 nature

A nature reserve in the Cottian Alps surrounding the iconic Monte Viso peak.

Pointe d'Udine / Punta Udine📍 landmark

A mountain peak in the Monte Viso massif on the border between Italy and France.

Pointe de Rome / Punta Roma📍 landmark

A prominent Alpine peak located in the Monte Viso area.

Punta Gastaldi📍 landmark

A high mountain peak in the Cottian Alps near Monte Viso.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Monte Viso famous for?
The Po River, Italy's longest river, rises on its slopes.
Where is this mountain located?
It is located in the Cottian Alps, in the Piedmont region.
How high is Monte Viso?
It is 3841 meters high and has a distinct pyramid shape.
Can you trek around the mountain?
Yes, the 'Giro del Viso' is a popular multi-day trekking route.
Is it visible from far away?
Yes, it dominates the skyline of the western Po Valley.
Monte Viso: where is it located?
Monte Viso is located in Italy.
Monte Viso: what is there to see?
Highlights include Parco Naturale Regionale del Monviso, Pointe d'Udine / Punta Udine, Pointe de Rome / Punta Roma.
Monte Viso: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Monte Viso: why is it worth visiting?
Monte Viso, often called Monviso, is the highest peak in the Cottian Alps of Northwest Italy, reaching an elevation of 3841 meters.
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