Tips
February 7, 2022
Hiking
It is a small village (fraction of Novate Mezzola) that can only be reached on foot or by helicopter. There are no roads that connect the community to the bottom of the valley, but this makes the place truly unique.
•
May 8, 2017
Hiking
•
Sign up for a free komoot account to get 2 more insider tips and takes.
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near La Locanda Hut
4.7
(112)
427
hikers
11.3km
05:08
770m
770m
The Ring towards the Val Codera offers a difficult hiking experience through an unspoiled Alpine valley in Lombardy, Italy. This 7.0-mile (11.3 km) route involves a significant 2534 feet (772 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 5 hours and 8 minutes to complete. As you hike, you will encounter majestic Alpine peaks like Pizzo Badile and Pizzo Cengalo, with panoramic views of Lake Mezzola unfolding. The trail passes through lush chestnut groves and dense woods, with the constant sound of the Codera stream and waterfalls. You will also see charming, traditional stone villages such as Codera. This car-free valley is accessible only on foot, preserving its unique natural and cultural heritage. Expect constant ups and downs, with sections often cut into the rock face. Some parts of the Tracciolino trail include tunnels and aerial passages, which are generally secured. Refuges like Rifugio Brasca and Osteria Alpina in Codera offer opportunities for rest and meals along the way. Starting from Mezzolpiano, the initial ascent is steep, featuring cobbled mule tracks and numerous stone steps that quickly gain altitude. The Val Codera is one of the few Italian Alpine valleys still without drivable roads, making it a unique destination for hikers seeking an authentic and preserved natural environment. The valley is home to picturesque villages like Codera, San Giorgio, and Avedée, characterized by their stone architecture. The Tracciolino, a 10-kilometer route carved into the rock, is a highlight, connecting Val Codera to Val dei Ratti with spectacular passages and breathtaking views. Beyond its natural beauty, Val Codera has a rich cultural heritage, with its granite walls telling stories of medieval stonemasons and its role during WWII as a resistance corridor.
4.6
(84)
516
hikers
9.30km
04:25
710m
710m
Embark on a moderate hike along the historic Sentiero Italia, a route that spans 5.8 miles (9.3 km) and climbs 2318 feet (707 metres) over approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes. This trail guides you through ancient stone staircases and a mule track, offering continuous views of Lake Mezzola as you ascend. You'll pass through dense chestnut forests, where the path is marked by old stone steps worn smooth by generations. The journey feels like stepping back in time, with the quiet atmosphere of the mountains surrounding you. As you gain elevation, the panoramic vistas over Lake Mezzola and the majestic Alps unfold, making the effort worthwhile. The route's character is defined by its historical engineering, including remnants of the old Decauville railway. You will find the villages of Codera and Avedè, which are among the few in Italy accessible only on foot. This makes the experience truly unique. The trail connects you to a timeless landscape where every step tells a story. Refill your water bottles at the village fountain in Codera. You can also enjoy warm hospitality and local food at Rifugio La Locanda di Codera and Osteria Alpina. The trail continues through the hamlet of Avedè with its traditional stone buildings. You can return along the same trail, or follow the provided directions through the valley, going down through the hamlet of San Giorgio. You can park at Mezzolpiano or take the train to Novate Mezzola station, which connects to Milan and the Valtellina region. This old path connects you to something timeless, where every stone step has been worn smooth by generations of mountain travelers.
4.9
(26)
129
hikers
18.9km
07:51
1,180m
1,180m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 800 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Sunday 7 June
19°C
11°C
-- %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: -- km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December