Sassaz - Coda Refuge

This stage crosses three mountain passes: Giassit, Lace, and Carisé. The trail passes through the head of the Maletto basin, which, although geographically part of the Canavese, still lies within the Aosta Valley, and continues to Col della Lace, offering a view over the Biellese region.
The final stretch leading to Mont Roux is very steep and includes sections equipped with fixed ropes, which should be tackled with care. The long ridge between the Aosta Valley and Biellese is highly panoramic.
In case of thunderstorms, it is recommended not to traverse the ridge. Instead, you can reach Col Carisé directly via Col Portola, following the Tor des Géants route as described in the ascent to Coda Refuge.

From the Pont-Saint-Martin motorway exit, turn right toward Turin. At the second roundabout, turn left toward Gressoney.
The road climbs for a few hundred meters before turning right onto the Valle del Lys road, which you follow all the way to Lillianes. Just before the narrow section of the village, turn right onto the ascending road, and at the first junction, continue to the left.
Follow the steep mountainside up to a fork, then turn according to the signs for Étoile du Berger. Pass a few hairpin bends, then continue to the right until reaching the junction for Étoile du Berger. Shortly after, you will find a small private car park, which can only be used if you are visiting the mountain inn.

From Étoile du Berger, retrace the path from the previous day for about a hundred meters, then turn left onto the trail that descends to cross the stream. Continue on the opposite slope until you reach the beautiful Revers arch bridge, which you cross to climb back onto the rural road.
Follow the road to the right, cross the bridge, and at the first hairpin turn, take the left onto Alta Via Trail No. 1. This charming trail winds through sections of larch forests and open meadows, passing small alpine pastures before reaching a steeper stretch that leads to a scenic grassy basin.
After a short section, veer left to reach Alpe Giassit, where you can admire a quaint “crotin” (small stone shelter) beneath a large boulder. Continue through the center of the valley, and with no difficulties, you will arrive at the large wooden cross marking the mountain pass.
From the pass, follow a long contour trail to reach Col della Lace, overlooking the Biellese region. Now, follow the ridge to the base of Mont Roux, which you ascend via steep rocky steps equipped with fixed ropes and some stone steps until reaching the summit.
From the summit, continue over a series of gentle ups and downs, eventually reaching Col Carisè, and after about half an hour, arrive at Coda Refuge