Mount Marguareis: hike to the highest summit in the Ligurian Alps
Carnino, Cuneo · Piemonte•1 day•Hiking · 2,651 m
Experience
Day hikes
Difficulty ?
INTERMEDIATE
Where?
Cuneo, Piemonte
On your own?
No problem
Points
+23
Community photos
See all photos
Overview
The experience
Difficulty
What's included
Itinerary
Carpooling
What to bring
Your guide
Reviews
Questions
WHY THIS HIKE
Mount Marguareis: hike to the highest summit in the Ligurian Alps
In the heart of the Marguareis Natural Park, one of the most captivating peaks of the Ligurian Alps awaits us. With the Guidders, we will set off from Carnino Superiore, in the Tanaro Valley, to reach Monte Marguareis (2,651 m), crossing a unique landscape shaped by karst formations, among sinkholes, limestone rocks, and views stretching from the Alps to the Ligurian Sea. The trail alternates steep ascents and high-altitude sections, requiring good fitness, but every step will be rewarded by the satisfaction of reaching the summit. On the way back, we will stop at Rifugio Don Barbera, on Colle dei Signori, a historic stop along the famous Salt Road, for a well-deserved break surrounded by nature.
Group chat a couple of days before
Come alone, leave with new friends
The experience
👉 Join the Guidders and conquer the highest peak in the Ligurian Alps together with a community that loves experiencing the mountains step by step!
Reach the summit of Monte Marguareis
Spectacular views between the Alps and the sea
One of the most fascinating karst environments in Italy
Stop at Rifugio Don Barbera on the Salt Road
Challenging and incredibly rewarding trekking
Monte Marguareis is a mountain of two faces: pastures and gentle slopes on the Italian side, imposing limestone walls on the French side. A trek that lets you experience one of the most spectacular karst landscapes in the Alps, amid wild nature, history, and sweeping views.
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.
Recommended age 18+
It's not a rule: it just tells you what kind of group to expect. You can still sign up if you're outside this range.
Guiddy accident insurance
Included in the price.
+23 Guiddy points
Your points grow with every outing, level you up and unlock discounts, exclusive outings and goodies.
Dog friendly
Your dog can come: add them when you book.
How hard is it, really
Guiddy scale
INTERMEDIATE
F
F+
I
I+
D
D+
1,350 m D+ · 18 km · 8 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
Go to bed early, have a good breakfast and drink before you set off: you've got 8 h and 1,350 m of ascent ahead, if you go to the mountains a couple of times a month, you're fit enough
✓
IN YOUR BACKPACK
Hiking shoes, 1.5 litres of water, a snack and a windproof jacket, plus poles. 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
✕Lunch in hut
✕Transport
To get there, there's Guiddy carpooling, below.
Itinerary
One day, approximate times. The final details come in the group chat.
Elevation gain
1,350 m
Max altitude
2,651 m
Distance
18 km
Duration
8 h
Day
18 km · D+ 1,350 m · 8 h
The stops · 18 km
Meeting point 8:00approximate
Briga Alta, provincia di Cuneo, Italia. The exact time is confirmed in the group chat. We usually meet a little earlier for breakfast together, when possible.
Meeting Point and Departure – Briga Alta, Carnino Superiore Hamlet
Parking area where the hike begins, located in the municipality of Briga Alta, in the hamlet of Carnino Superiore
11:00PASS
Gaina Pass
Gaina Pass, where you can admire the karst landscapes of the Marguareis Park
12:00SUMMIT
Marguareis Peak
Mount Marguareis, the highest peak in the Ligurian Alps
13:00MOUNTAIN HUT
Don Barbera Mountain Hut
Here we’ll stop for lunch before heading back to the cars.
16:30RETURN
End of the Hike – back at the car park where we set off, in the hamlet of Carnino Superiore
We’ll retrace our outward route back to the car park where we left our cars in the hamlet of Carnino Superiore.
How do you get to Carnino? 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.
Trekking boots
REQUIRED
Light headgear
REQUIRED
Light fleece
REQUIRED
Sunscreen
REQUIRED
Mosquito repellent spray
REQUIRED
Spray anti-zecche
REQUIRED
Sunglasses
REQUIRED
Water supply
REQUIRED
Food supply
REQUIRED
Windproof
REQUIRED
Waterproof shell
REQUIRED
Trekking poles
RECOMMENDED
First aid kit
RECOMMENDED
Your guide
Giorgia B.
· 1 outings
We'll email you when they have a new outing on the calendar.
Hi Guidders! 🧡 I'm Giorgia, an environmental hiking guide, raised between the Tanaro Valley and the Ligurian Alps: mountains looking out over the sea, which I've always carried with me. There's another special place for me too, the Varaita Valley, where the Stone King dominates the horizon and every trail tells old stories among incredible landscapes and summits worth living. Walking and running in the mountains means discovery for me: I love exploring new trails and sharing the wonder of nature with the people I guide, because every experience is better when you live it with someone. Before being a guide I'm a curious soul, in love with the land that raised me. You'll find me with a backpack on, a ready smile and an appetite for listening to the wind in the rocks and the silence of the woods. When the mountains call, I answer with a smile (and poles). 🥾⛰️ 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 8 h with 1,350 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.
Mount Marguareis: hike to the highest summit in the Ligurian Alps
Carnino, Briga Alta (CN) · Piemonte
1 day · Hiking · 2,651 m
New: you'll be among the first Guidders to do it
Elevation gain
1,350 m
Max altitude
2,651 m
Distance
18 km
Exposed sections
None
Duration
8 h
Guiddy points
+23
▣ 7 photos
+3 photos
WHY THIS HIKE
Mount Marguareis: hike to the highest summit in the Ligurian Alps
In the heart of the Marguareis Natural Park, one of the most captivating peaks of the Ligurian Alps awaits us. With the Guidders, we will set off from Carnino Superiore, in the Tanaro Valley, to reach Monte Marguareis (2,651 m), crossing a unique landscape shaped by karst formations, among sinkholes, limestone rocks, and views stretching from the Alps to the Ligurian Sea. The trail alternates steep ascents and high-altitude sections, requiring good fitness, but every step will be rewarded by the satisfaction of reaching the summit. On the way back, we will stop at Rifugio Don Barbera, on Colle dei Signori, a historic stop along the famous Salt Road, for a well-deserved break surrounded by nature.
Come alone, leave with new friends
The experience
👉 Join the Guidders and conquer the highest peak in the Ligurian Alps together with a community that loves experiencing the mountains step by step!
Reach the summit of Monte Marguareis
Spectacular views between the Alps and the sea
One of the most fascinating karst environments in Italy
Stop at Rifugio Don Barbera on the Salt Road
Challenging and incredibly rewarding trekking
Monte Marguareis is a mountain of two faces: pastures and gentle slopes on the Italian side, imposing limestone walls on the French side. A trek that lets you experience one of the most spectacular karst landscapes in the Alps, amid wild nature, history, and sweeping views.
How hard is it
Guiddy scale
INTERMEDIATE
F
F+
I
I+
D
D+
1,350 m D+ · 18 km · 8 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
Go to bed early, have a good breakfast and drink before you set off: you've got 8 h and 1,350 m of ascent ahead, if you go to the mountains a couple of times a month, you're fit enough
✓
IN YOUR BACKPACK
Hiking shoes, 1.5 litres of water, a snack and a windproof jacket, plus poles. 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
✕Lunch in hut
✕Transport
Itinerary
Day · approximate times
Stops · 18 km
Meeting point 8:00Carnino
We usually meet a little earlier for breakfast together, when possible.
Meeting Point and Departure – Briga Alta, Carnino Superiore Hamlet
Parking area where the hike begins, located in the municipality of Briga Alta, in the hamlet of Carnino Superiore
11:00PASS
Gaina Pass
Gaina Pass, where you can admire the karst landscapes of the Marguareis Park
12:00SUMMIT
Marguareis Peak
Mount Marguareis, the highest peak in the Ligurian Alps
13:00MOUNTAIN HUT
Don Barbera Mountain Hut
Here we’ll stop for lunch before heading back to the cars.
16:30RETURN
End of the Hike – back at the car park where we set off, in the hamlet of Carnino Superiore
We’ll retrace our outward route back to the car park where we left our cars in the hamlet of Carnino Superiore.
How do you get to Carnino? 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.
Trekking boots
REQUIRED
Light headgear
REQUIRED
Light fleece
REQUIRED
Sunscreen
REQUIRED
Mosquito repellent spray
REQUIRED
Spray anti-zecche
REQUIRED
Sunglasses
REQUIRED
Water supply
REQUIRED
Food supply
REQUIRED
Windproof
REQUIRED
Waterproof shell
REQUIRED
Trekking poles
RECOMMENDED
First aid kit
RECOMMENDED
Your guide
Giorgia B.
1 outings with Guiddy
Guida Ambientale Escursionistica
Hi Guidders! 🧡 I'm Giorgia, an environmental hiking guide, raised between the Tanaro Valley and the Ligurian Alps: mountains looking out over the sea, which I've always carried with me. There's another special place for me too, the Varaita Valley, where the Stone King dominates the horizon and every trail tells old stories among incredible landscapes and summits worth living. Walking and running in the mountains means discovery for me: I love exploring new trails and sharing the wonder of nature with the people I guide, because every experience is better when you live it with someone. Before being a guide I'm a curious soul, in love with the land that raised me. You'll find me with a backpack on, a ready smile and an appetite for listening to the wind in the rocks and the silence of the woods. When the mountains call, I answer with a smile (and poles). 🥾⛰️ 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 8 h with 1,350 m of ascent. If in doubt, message Ibex on WhatsApp.
_1782907707186.webp%3Falt%3Dmedia%26token%3D405ff83b-6065-4cbd-a619-ff5b68228e2b&w=640&q=75)
_1782907707235.webp%3Falt%3Dmedia%26token%3Df65295c8-b139-4641-9eca-17ce14c2fdd7&w=640&q=75)
_1782907707158.webp%3Falt%3Dmedia%26token%3Dc4280ccd-09c0-408d-ba12-e8bf309dd2b1&w=640&q=75)
Apple Maps
_1782907707186.webp%3Falt%3Dmedia%26token%3D405ff83b-6065-4cbd-a619-ff5b68228e2b&w=828&q=75)
_1782907707235.webp%3Falt%3Dmedia%26token%3Df65295c8-b139-4641-9eca-17ce14c2fdd7&w=828&q=75)
