Lake Laus: A Wild Snowshoeing Adventure in the Upper Stura Valley!
Demonte, Cuneo · Piemonte•1 day•Hiking · 1,932 m
Experience
Day hikes
Difficulty ?
INTERMEDIATE
Where?
Cuneo, Piemonte
On your own?
No problem
Points
+16
Community photos
See all photos
Overview
The experience
Difficulty
What's included
Itinerary
Carpooling
What to bring
Your guide
Reviews
Questions
WHY THIS HIKE
Snowshoeing to Lake Laus
An intense and authentic winter excursion in the upper Stura di Demonte Valley, where the border mountains tell stories of silence, snow, and ancient military roads. The starting point is Strepeis, a small, secluded, and silent Alpine hamlet, perfect for immediately entering the slow rhythm of winter.
Group chat a couple of days before
Come alone, leave with new friends
The experience
The route ascends with a gentle and steady slope, ideal for snowshoeing, crossing snow-covered fir forests and wide, bright valleys. The environment is open and evocative, with beautiful views of the peaks of the Maritime Alps. The heart of the excursion is the glacial basin of Lake Laus, often covered in snow and ice, a place capable of conveying a profound sense of quiet and vastness.
On the return, passing through the village of San Bernolfo adds a historical and human touch to the experience: stone houses, alpine architecture, and winter isolation restore a timeless atmosphere. A perfect itinerary for Guiddersche seeking real snow, vast landscapes, and authentic mountains, far from the beaten paths ⛰️🧡
GOOD TO KNOW
Group chat
It opens a couple of days before: that's where the meeting point is confirmed and carpooling is arranged.
Free cancellation up to 3 days before
You pay nothing when you book.
Guiddy accident insurance
Included in the price.
+16 Guiddy points
Your points grow with every outing, level you up and unlock discounts, exclusive outings and goodies.
Not suitable for dogs
This time your dog stays at home.
How hard is it, really
Guiddy scale
INTERMEDIATE
F
F+
I
I+
D
D+
650 m D+ · 15 km · 6 h
Easy
Perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without too much effort. Short, well-marked trails with gentle slopes. No technical difficulties, just a desire to walk, breathe in the fresh air, and share the day with a group.
Ideal for: Beginners, families, those who want to take their first steps in trekking.
Easy Plus
A little faster pace, but still accessible. Slightly longer routes or with a few more hills, requiring some walking experience. The terrain is always easy and safe.
Ideal for: Those who walk regularly and want to challenge themselves a little.
Intermediate — this outing
Here we enter the world of true trekking. Steeper climbs, stretches on uneven or longer trails that require stamina. The physical effort is medium to high, and the fatigue is noticeable... but so is the satisfaction!
Ideal for: Those who already have experience and a good level of physical fitness.
Intermediate Plus
When the mountains begin to take their toll. More challenging routes in terms of gradient or duration, with technical sections or uneven terrain. Even a medium elevation gain can be tough if concentrated in just a few kilometers
Ideal for: Trained hikers, accustomed to walking on mountain paths
Difficult
Level suitable for experienced hikers with excellent stamina and surefootedness. The physical challenge is high, and there may be steep sections or possible exposure, which is always noted in the hike description. Perfect for those who enjoy pushing their limits and conquering significant peaks.
Ideal for: Those who already have experience in an Alpine environment and want to challenge themselves.
Difficult Plus
Only for true Guidders with their Wild Spirit at its peak Long routes, significant elevation gain (over 1,100 m), and technical or exposed terrain. Excellent physical preparation, sure-footedness, and the ability to manage fatigue at high altitude are required.
Ideal for: Highly trained and experienced hikers in the mountains.
Exposure and exposed sections
NONE
No exposed sections reported on the route.
VERTIGO RISK
WHAT YOU NEED BEFORE YOU GO
✓
BEFORE YOU GO
Dress in layers and set off in daylight: on snow you sweat going up and freeze at the stops. If you've never snowshoed, no experience needed, just legs for a long walk and an easy pace
✓
IN YOUR BACKPACK
Snowshoes and poles (rent them if you don't have them), waterproof boots, gaiters, gloves plus a spare pair, a beanie, sunglasses, a hot thermos and a snack. Always with you: a plaster, an antiseptic wipe and a small bag for rubbish
What's included in the price
✓INCLUDED
✓Certified Guide
✓Guiddy accident insurance
✕NOT INCLUDED
✕Snowshoes and poles to be paid on site (on request)
✕Mini crampons (on request)
✕Packed lunches
✕Travel to Demonte
To get there, there's Guiddy carpooling, below.
Itinerary
One day, approximate times. The final details come in the group chat.
Elevation gain
650 m
Max altitude
1,932 m
Distance
15 km
Duration
6 h
Day
15 km · D+ 650 m · 6 h
The stops · 15 km
Meeting point 8:30approximate
provincia di Cuneo, Italia. The exact time is confirmed in the group chat. We usually meet a little earlier for breakfast together, when possible.
We'll meet in Demonte for breakfast and to consolidate vehicles before driving up the valley to the trailhead, where our adventure begins!
09:30PARKING
Hiking departure point: Strepeis
Our hike into the San Bernolfo valley begins at Strepeis. Expect sweeping views and a gentle ascent.
12:00LAKE
Lake Laus: A Hidden Gem in the Mountains
We'll reach Lake Laus, a jewel of a lake nestled in the mountains. Here, the panorama unfolds before us, and we'll savor this incredible moment surrounded by nature. We'll enjoy a packed lunch here.
13:30MOUNTAIN HUT
San Bernolfo: A Jewel of Alpine Architecture
During our descent, we'll stop in the village of San Bernolfo. We'll wander through its narrow streets to admire the distinctive architecture, and there will also be a chance to enjoy a coffee break at the Rifugio Dahù mountain hut.
15:30RETURN
Back to the trailhead.
Back to the parking area and the end of our hike. Farewell and happy trails!
How do you get to Demonte? By carpooling.
You say so when booking, then you get organised in the Telegram group. Contacts and costs are agreed between you: a seat isn't guaranteed.
WHO'S ALREADY GOING
Offering a seat Looking for a seat
Cars are added in the last few days, once the group is confirmed.
What to bring
A list made for this hike. No technical gear: just good shoes and a well-packed backpack.
Snowshoes
REQUIRED
Mini-crampons
REQUIRED
Shovel
REQUIRED
Avalanche transceiver
REQUIRED
Trekking poles
REQUIRED
Backpack
REQUIRED
Sunscreen
RECOMMENDED
Windbreaker
RECOMMENDED
Gloves
RECOMMENDED
Layered clothing
RECOMMENDED
Trekking boots
RECOMMENDED
Packed lunch
RECOMMENDED
Your guide
Elena A.
· 1 outings
We'll email you when they have a new outing on the calendar.
Hi Guidders! 🧡 I'm Elena, a licensed nature guide and tour leader. I'm 32 and I live in Sampeyre, in the province of Cuneo, in the land of Monviso. I'm passionate about mountains, sport and the outdoors in every form, and my aim is to show people the beauty of the places where I live — but above all to share and pass on what I feel when I'm out in nature. Those are two different things: the first you see, the second you feel. I also love travelling and everything travel involves: planning routes, studying and getting to know places, the inevitable discovery and the growth that comes with it. Come with me and you'll find someone who prepared the day beforehand, and then lives it with you. 🥾 See you in the mountains, Guidders!
We only ask for feedback from people who were really there.
You'll be among the first to share your story.
Questions?
I've only done easy trails, can I come?
⌄
Flat or slightly inclined sections with short stretches on steep slopes and rocks, not tiring or demanding. You need to be fit enough to walk for 6 h with 650 m of ascent. If in doubt, message Ibex on WhatsApp.
Can I join on my own?
⌄
How does carpooling work?
⌄
What happens if the weather is bad?
⌄
What if the group doesn't reach the minimum?
⌄
Until when can I cancel?
⌄
Book now, pay only if it goes ahead
MOST POPULAR
✓No charge now: the amount is only held on your card
✓Free cancellation up to 3 days before
✓You're only charged once the group is confirmed, at 7 pm the evening before departure
✓Minimum not reached? No charge, nothing to do
Or pay straight away by card, PayPal, Satispay or Revolut. With Klarna you can also pay in interest-free instalments.
Still have questions? Message Ibex
Ibex is Guiddy's virtual ibex: it answers everything, 24/7. In two messages it tells you whether this outing is for you, how to get there and what to pack.
Lake Laus: A Wild Snowshoeing Adventure in the Upper Stura Valley!
Demonte, (CN) · Piemonte
1 day · Hiking · 1,932 m
New: you'll be among the first Guidders to do it
Elevation gain
650 m
Max altitude
1,932 m
Distance
15 km
Exposed sections
None
Duration
6 h
Guiddy points
+16
▣ 6 photos
+2 photos
WHY THIS HIKE
Snowshoeing to Lake Laus
An intense and authentic winter excursion in the upper Stura di Demonte Valley, where the border mountains tell stories of silence, snow, and ancient military roads. The starting point is Strepeis, a small, secluded, and silent Alpine hamlet, perfect for immediately entering the slow rhythm of winter.
Come alone, leave with new friends
The experience
The route ascends with a gentle and steady slope, ideal for snowshoeing, crossing snow-covered fir forests and wide, bright valleys. The environment is open and evocative, with beautiful views of the peaks of the Maritime Alps. The heart of the excursion is the glacial basin of Lake Laus, often covered in snow and ice, a place capable of conveying a profound sense of quiet and vastness.
On the return, passing through the village of San Bernolfo adds a historical and human touch to the experience: stone houses, alpine architecture, and winter isolation restore a timeless atmosphere. A perfect itinerary for Guiddersche seeking real snow, vast landscapes, and authentic mountains, far from the beaten paths ⛰️🧡
How hard is it
Guiddy scale
INTERMEDIATE
F
F+
I
I+
D
D+
650 m D+ · 15 km · 6 h
Easy
Perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without too much effort. Short, well-marked trails with gentle slopes. No technical difficulties, just a desire to walk, breathe in the fresh air, and share the day with a group.
Ideal for: Beginners, families, those who want to take their first steps in trekking.
Easy Plus
A little faster pace, but still accessible. Slightly longer routes or with a few more hills, requiring some walking experience. The terrain is always easy and safe.
Ideal for: Those who walk regularly and want to challenge themselves a little.
Intermediate — this outing
Here we enter the world of true trekking. Steeper climbs, stretches on uneven or longer trails that require stamina. The physical effort is medium to high, and the fatigue is noticeable... but so is the satisfaction!
Ideal for: Those who already have experience and a good level of physical fitness.
Intermediate Plus
When the mountains begin to take their toll. More challenging routes in terms of gradient or duration, with technical sections or uneven terrain. Even a medium elevation gain can be tough if concentrated in just a few kilometers
Ideal for: Trained hikers, accustomed to walking on mountain paths
Difficult
Level suitable for experienced hikers with excellent stamina and surefootedness. The physical challenge is high, and there may be steep sections or possible exposure, which is always noted in the hike description. Perfect for those who enjoy pushing their limits and conquering significant peaks.
Ideal for: Those who already have experience in an Alpine environment and want to challenge themselves.
Difficult Plus
Only for true Guidders with their Wild Spirit at its peak Long routes, significant elevation gain (over 1,100 m), and technical or exposed terrain. Excellent physical preparation, sure-footedness, and the ability to manage fatigue at high altitude are required.
Ideal for: Highly trained and experienced hikers in the mountains.
WHAT YOU NEED BEFORE YOU GO
✓
BEFORE YOU GO
Dress in layers and set off in daylight: on snow you sweat going up and freeze at the stops. If you've never snowshoed, no experience needed, just legs for a long walk and an easy pace
✓
IN YOUR BACKPACK
Snowshoes and poles (rent them if you don't have them), waterproof boots, gaiters, gloves plus a spare pair, a beanie, sunglasses, a hot thermos and a snack. Always with you: a plaster, an antiseptic wipe and a small bag for rubbish
What's included
INCLUDED
✓Certified Guide
✓Guiddy accident insurance
NOT INCLUDED
✕Snowshoes and poles to be paid on site (on request)
✕Mini crampons (on request)
✕Packed lunches
✕Travel to Demonte
Itinerary
Day · approximate times
Stops · 15 km
Meeting point 8:30Demonte
We usually meet a little earlier for breakfast together, when possible.
We'll meet in Demonte for breakfast and to consolidate vehicles before driving up the valley to the trailhead, where our adventure begins!
09:30PARKING
Hiking departure point: Strepeis
Our hike into the San Bernolfo valley begins at Strepeis. Expect sweeping views and a gentle ascent.
12:00LAKE
Lake Laus: A Hidden Gem in the Mountains
We'll reach Lake Laus, a jewel of a lake nestled in the mountains. Here, the panorama unfolds before us, and we'll savor this incredible moment surrounded by nature. We'll enjoy a packed lunch here.
13:30MOUNTAIN HUT
San Bernolfo: A Jewel of Alpine Architecture
During our descent, we'll stop in the village of San Bernolfo. We'll wander through its narrow streets to admire the distinctive architecture, and there will also be a chance to enjoy a coffee break at the Rifugio Dahù mountain hut.
15:30RETURN
Back to the trailhead.
Back to the parking area and the end of our hike. Farewell and happy trails!
How do you get to Demonte? By carpooling.
You say so when booking, then you get organised in the Telegram group.
WHO'S ALREADY GOING
Offering a seat Looking for a seat
Cars are added in the last few days, once the group is confirmed.
What to bring
A list made for this hike.
Snowshoes
REQUIRED
Mini-crampons
REQUIRED
Shovel
REQUIRED
Avalanche transceiver
REQUIRED
Trekking poles
REQUIRED
Backpack
REQUIRED
Sunscreen
RECOMMENDED
Windbreaker
RECOMMENDED
Gloves
RECOMMENDED
Layered clothing
RECOMMENDED
Trekking boots
RECOMMENDED
Packed lunch
RECOMMENDED
Your guide
Elena A.
1 outings with Guiddy
Guida Ambientale Escursionistica
Hi Guidders! 🧡 I'm Elena, a licensed nature guide and tour leader. I'm 32 and I live in Sampeyre, in the province of Cuneo, in the land of Monviso. I'm passionate about mountains, sport and the outdoors in every form, and my aim is to show people the beauty of the places where I live — but above all to share and pass on what I feel when I'm out in nature. Those are two different things: the first you see, the second you feel. I also love travelling and everything travel involves: planning routes, studying and getting to know places, the inevitable discovery and the growth that comes with it. Come with me and you'll find someone who prepared the day beforehand, and then lives it with you. 🥾 See you in the mountains, Guidders!
We'll email you when they have a new outing on the calendar.
Flat or slightly inclined sections with short stretches on steep slopes and rocks, not tiring or demanding. You need to be fit enough to walk for 6 h with 650 m of ascent. If in doubt, message Ibex on WhatsApp.
Apple Maps
