- Timing: 3h45’ up
- Best season: February to mid April
- Aspect of the descent: E then N
- Ascent length: 6.500m
A lookout on Mont Blanc
Punta Valletta is a pretty summit that separates three valleys: Sereina, Vertosan and the Citrin coombe. It is one of the highest peaks on the S of the Coumba Freida. The approach is somewhat long and sees the crossing of the long Citrin valley, then it overcomes the woody step close to the Coumba and extends to a wide suspended valley as far as the foot of the namesake col.
You will be standing cheek by jowl with some of the most astonishing landscapes in the area before climbing to the top along its NE arête.
The descent is via the same face, with the possibility of making variations and enchaining it with other routes (such as the Mont Flassin itinerary). The last part of the descent is less open to interpretations.
Overall, this is not a terribly difficult route, although you will have to be able to read the snow conditions well for the last section to the top.
From the summit, you will enjoy exceptional views on the main Aosta Valley peaks.
From the parking, head due W flanking the stream. Continue on level ground until you reach a large snowy plateau, the proper access to the Citrin Valley. Climb the snowy track of the forestry road briefly and then leave it almost right away merging with the initial part of the valley. After having crossed the road again, enter the summer path: with a few hairpin bends, climb the densely wooded forest and gain altitude quickly. Close to the ferruginous spring of the Citrin, the path becomes more straightforward and follows the wide crest. Climb out of the wood and reach the Citin du milieu farmhouses (2.005m). From here on, the backdrops opens greatly and the climb becomes a pleasant affair, with a series of hillocks, while you can make out the imposing silhouette of the Pointe Valletta to the right. Once you have left the Citrin mountain pasture down to the left, carry on towards the summit staying to the right of the valley. The last section usually takes place via the NE arête that, if the snow conditions are good, is your best option to reach the top (2.803m).
Descent
Make the descent via your skin track, freely, as far as the car park.
Pick your line on the E aspect and the skiing can be great. Once you are in the central part of the Citrin Valley, follow the uptrack somewhat freely as far as the final part, which is less open to interpretations.