Highlight • Lake
Hiking
5.0
(40)
Mountaineering
5.0
(4)
Routes leading to this Highlight may be dangerous
Routes may comprise technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
Tips
August 18, 2019
Mountaineering
August 30, 2015
Hiking
August 9, 2020
Hiking

In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Lago Azzurro

4.6
(53)
171
hikers
7.06km
03:35
530m
520m
Embark on the Montespluga Ring between the lakes, a difficult hike that promises a challenging yet rewarding experience in the Italian Alps. This route spans 4.4 miles (7.1 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 1734 feet (529 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 34 minutes to complete. You will traverse a rugged, barren landscape dotted with giant boulders and impressive mountain peaks reaching over 3,000 meters. Expect stark scenery featuring murky lakes and a prominent dam, offering expansive views around Lake Montespluga. This trail demands good fitness and sure-footedness, rewarding you with a sense of solitude and raw natural beauty. In spring, the valley transforms into a lush green expanse of flowers, offering a different seasonal perspective.
To tackle this alpine route, you will need sturdy shoes and some alpine experience. The trail starts from Montespluga village, situated at 1908 meters above sea level, which serves as a convenient base for various mountain excursions. While the trails in this area are generally well-marked, they are not heavily used, so be prepared for a less crowded experience. Montespluga village offers a few amenities, including small hotels and a shop, providing a place to rest before or after your hike.
What sets the Montespluga Ring apart is its location in a wilder, less-trafficked part of the Alps, just 300 meters from the Swiss border. This area is largely unaffected by ski lifts, presenting a pristine amphitheater dominated by towering peaks. The village itself has a rich history as a stopover and transit point, adding to the unique atmosphere. This trail is ideal if you are seeking to escape more popular tourist routes and experience the mountains away from the chaos of ski infrastructure.

4.7
(52)
170
hikers
7.09km
03:37
530m
530m
Historic Alpine pass route past pristine lakes where Leonardo da Vinci once walked.

5.0
(2)
73
hikers
4.14km
02:10
340m
340m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,430 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Sunday 10 May
4°C
-1°C
80 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December