The Wild Road to Selleries Refuge

The Wild Road to Selleries Refuge

Italy, europe

Length

5 km

Elevation

2,023 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

# Rifugio Selleries: A Mountain Adventure in Northwestern Italy

Tucked away in the Metropolitan City of Turin, near the French border, Rifugio Selleries sits pretty at 2,023m (6,637ft) in the stunning Piedmont region. This relatively new refuge—opened in 2006—is a year-round gem nestled within Parco Naturale Orsiera Rocciavrè, where alpine meadows and dramatic ravines create an unforgettable landscape.

Getting there is half the fun. Starting from Strada Provinciale 23 del Colle di Sestriere (just south of Fenestrelle), you've got a 12.9km (8.01 miles) drive ahead. The journey begins on smooth asphalt with a series of sweeping bends as you steadily climb toward the old Agnelli Sanatorium. After a couple more curves, things level out briefly—but don't get too comfortable. At the Forte turnoff, keep your eyes peeled for the Selleries Refuge crossroads and hang a right.

Here's where it gets real: that final 5km transitions to dirt track, and the ascent in the middle section is no joke. This isn't a leisurely Sunday drive—it demands respect and attention. But push through, and you'll be rewarded with mountain air, alpine scenery, and a refuge that feels like a proper adventure destination rather than just another pit stop.

Where is it?

The Wild Road to Selleries Refuge is located in Italy (europe). Coordinates: 42.4376, 12.7298

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Road Details

Country
Italy
Continent
europe
Length
5 km
Max Elevation
2,023 m
Difficulty
moderate
Coordinates
42.4376, 12.7298

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