Balme between Pian della Mussa and Alpine history

Balme brings together the landscape of Pian della Mussa, trails through hamlets and alpine pastures, winter sports, and a rich Alpine history. Nature watching and cultural heritage sites are also among the features that shape a stay in this mountain community.

Landscape and nature around Balme

Pian della Mussa is a vast grassy plain that stretches for several kilometres at an altitude of more than 1,700 metres. The Stura river crosses the plain. Its formation also tells a story of landscape change: it was once covered by a glacier, which gave way to a lake that was later filled in with sediment. In spring, visitors can watch herds of ibex on the lower slopes.

From Balme, Pian della Mussa can be reached by a road open to traffic or by a mule track along the Stura. If you plan to use the road, check the seasonal conditions before setting out. This lets you choose your route according to your plans, without treating the two options as the same.

A waterfall is right in the centre: Cascata La Gorgia plunges several dozen metres. Nearby are an old mill and former buildings once used to cool milk. Alongside the natural scenery, visitors interested in the area can also find traces of past work and everyday life.

Trails, elevation changes, and activities

The Sentiero dell’Amicizia loops around Balme’s inhabited centre, passing through several hamlets and by a small alpine pasture. It is suitable for hiking or mountain biking. Except when there is snow in winter, neither special fitness nor special equipment is required; when there is snow, snowshoes are needed. The Grande Traversata delle Alpi, or GTA, also passes through Balme.

The Sentiero delle Peonie leads through a different landscape and is the only access route to the Vallone del Servin. This valley occupies half of the municipal area and is overlooked by a mountain chain with peaks above 3,000 metres. The trail follows a medieval path built by miners. Its history is linked to iron ore mining, as well as livestock farming and the cheese trade in Balme. When choosing a route, both the valley as a destination and the trail’s historical background are relevant.

The Pista Adolfo Kind runs from Balme to Pian della Mussa. The route is listed as 350 metres of elevation gain and takes approximately one hour. Balme also offers more than 20 kilometres of cross-country ski trails of varying difficulty. As trail operations are seasonal, it is advisable to check current operating conditions before planning a winter visit.

The Ginevrè area has climbing routes of varying difficulty, as well as a large area for climbing courses and beginners. At Rio Paschiet is the fishing area known as Zona Turistica di Pesca Rio Paschiet NO-KILL. If you plan to fish there, check the applicable rules and seasonal operating conditions in advance.

Alpine history and cultural sites

The Ecomuseo delle Guide Alpine di Balme is housed in the former town hall. It documents the origins and development of the mountain village and its role in mountaineering in Turin. Historical photographs, mountaineering equipment, memorabilia, posters, and documents offer insight into local mountaineering and its leading figures. Other sections focus on flora, fauna, and minerals, as well as local Franco-Provençal culture.

Architectural heritage ranges from religious art to older homes. The Cappella della Sindone preserves traces of frescoes depicting Christ and several saints. The Casa, traditionally considered Balme’s oldest house, was built before the 15th century and once housed the ancient Cappella della Sindone. This date refers to the house’s former use; it should be distinguished from the surviving traces of frescoes in the chapel.

Discover more destinations: San Secondo Di Pinerolo, Corio, Cantalupa, Carmagnola, Piossasco, Locana, Sant'anna, Nichelino

For the main travel guide: Turin.