The best mountain hikes around Corno alle Scale

In one of the – wonderfully told and far beyond the borders of Italy popular – short stories that Giovanni Guareschi (1908 to 1968) tells about the two protagonists he invented, "Don Camillo" and "Peppone", bears the title "AUTUMN". Even though most of his stories have a humorous background, this time it is about a serious topic, namely the national commemoration of the fallen on the occasion of November 4th. The communist mayor Peppone expresses himself in the heated discussion with the priest as follows: » "The people are fed up with all these wars and victories. The people know very well what a war is and do not need speeches and calls that glorify it." Don Camillo shook his head. "You are on the wrong path, Peppone. Nobody wants to glorify war. It is only about paying homage and gratitude to all those who suffered in this war and lost their lives in the process." « (G. Guareschi)

In summer, Balzi dell'Ora is a challenging CAI trail due to its exposure and some technical sections. In winter, with snow and ice, it's a winter mountaineering route that, depending on snow conditions, could be quite respectable. I climbed it alone with two ice axes and crampons. If you're climbing as a team in the conditions I encountered, I think sure-footedness and experience are essential, as there are many traverses and ridge sections with sparse protection, and you'll obviously need adequate winter mountaineering gear. In any case, it's a beautiful climb with magnificent views and a very rewarding experience.

In winter, with the right snow conditions, the Punta Sofia cross is a popular destination, ascending from the Balzi dell'Ora or the north gullies, or from the east face (a more complicated option). In other seasons, it's a beautiful hike along the various CAI trails. On clear days, you can admire a breathtaking view.

In winter, the second gully (starting from the left) has the steepest exit, 60/70 degrees, depending on the snow. I recommend tackling it with two ice axes. If you're climbing in a roped-up rock, about 60 meters from the gully exit, there's a bolt on the right that's useful for a belay. Another bolt is located at the gully exit, but it's often covered by the ship. It's obviously a good idea to check the snow conditions and equip yourself with the appropriate winter mountaineering gear.

The summit of Mount Cupolino behind Lake Scaffaiolo

A well-marked hiking trail (No. 331) leads from the Madonna dell'Acero Sanctuary through shady beech forests directly to the waterfalls. Along the way, several viewpoints await you with magnificent views of the surrounding countryside and the roaring water.

The Dardagna Waterfalls consist of several impressive cascades with a total height of approximately 200 meters. The highest single fall, at approximately 30 meters, is particularly worth seeing. They are among the most beautiful waterfalls in the Emilia-Romagna Apennines.

The Rifugio Duca degli Abruzzi, at 2,388 m, is located in the heart of the Gran Sasso on the crest of Monte Portella. It is open from June to September, offers typical Abruzzo cuisine and the possibility of overnight stays. It can be reached from Campo Imperatore, and on weekends it is advisable to book by contacting the managers. More information on the website: www.rifugioducadegliabruzzi.it