Cima delle Saline

Cima delle Saline is a mountain summit in the Province of Cuneo with distinct differences in its terrain. Its northern face drops steeply while the southern slopes descend more gradually, creating two very different climbing experiences on opposite sides.

The mountain takes its name from a nearby pass that served as a trade route where merchants carried salt from the Mediterranean coast down to the Po River valley. This historic pathway gave the location commercial importance linking coastal and inland regions.

The mountain sits within a protected natural area where visitors notice sparse alpine meadows and rocky outcrops supporting hardy mountain plants. Hikers in this region often observe how the landscape shapes the local connection to high-altitude environments.

Hikers have access to mountain shelters in the region that provide overnight accommodation throughout the year. Visitors should prepare for variable weather and different trail conditions, especially on the steep northern side where terrain becomes more technical.

The mountain is built from Jurassic limestone that has weathered into its distinctive rounded shape over millions of years. This geological makeup gives the summit a notably different profile compared to the more angular peaks surrounding it.