Malghe in Rete - Loop 1 - Punta Almana

This trail is considered difficult and challenging. It features steep, rocky, and exposed sections, including parts of the "Filippo Benedetti equipped path" which may have metal cables. It's rated for "Equipped Expert Hikers" due to the technical demands and physical exertion required. It is not recommended for beginners or families with young children.

The Malghe in Rete - Loop 1 - Punta Almana trail is approximately 12.5 km long with significant elevation gain. While some sources suggest 4-4.5 hours, komoot estimates the duration to be around 5 hours and 14 minutes of moving time. Factoring in breaks for enjoying the views and resting, you should plan for a full day, likely 6-7 hours or more.

The trail is best enjoyed in the spring, summer, and early autumn months when the weather is generally stable and the views are clearest. Avoid hiking during adverse weather conditions, especially rain or snow, as the exposed and rocky sections can become very slippery and dangerous.

While there are no explicit prohibitions against dogs, due to the trail's difficult and technical nature, including steep, rocky, and exposed sections, it may not be suitable for all dogs, especially those not accustomed to challenging terrain. If you bring a dog, ensure it is well-behaved, on a leash, and capable of handling the strenuous conditions.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Malghe in Rete - Loop 1 - Punta Almana trail. It is freely accessible to the public.

The trail typically starts from Portole, a hamlet of Sale Marasino. You can find parking in or near Portole. Some initial sections near Portole may involve cobbled or asphalt roads before transitioning to forest tracks.

The terrain varies significantly. You'll start with steady climbs through dense broad-leaved and coniferous forests. As you ascend, the path becomes more technical, emerging from the treeline into steeper, rockier, and more exposed sections. The "Junction to Corna Busa (cave)" and the "Bench on Sentiero Filippo Benedetti" are on more demanding parts of the route. The descent can also be very steep and stony before returning to sheltered forest paths and meadows.

The trail offers breathtaking panoramic views. Key highlights include the "View of Lake Iseo from Forcella di Sale" and especially the "View of Lake Iseo and Monte Isola from Punta Almana". From the summit, you can see Monte Isola, the surrounding Prealpine chain, and on clear days, high-altitude Alpine peaks like Monte Guglielmo and the Adamello massifs. You'll also pass the "Pezzolo Cross" and the "Passo Spino".

Yes, you can find options for food and refreshments. The trail passes by "Osteria Portole" near the start/end point and "Osteria Pezzuolo" along the way. Some sources also mention Osteria Pastina as a potential lunch stop.

Yes, this route shares sections with several other official trails. These include "Malghe in Rete - Trekking - Le Creste Tappa 1", "Malghe in Rete - Trekking - Le Valli Tappa 2", "Sentiero Brigata Giustizia e Libertà - Barnaba", and "Sentiero 3V - Tappa 7". You'll also encounter parts of the "Sentiero Filippo Benedetti" and the "Diretta Corna Büsa - Punta Almana (Innesto Sentiero 3V)".

The loop can be completed in either direction, but your choice will impact the difficulty of the ascent or descent. Going counter-clockwise involves a more challenging ascent on the steeper side, while hiking clockwise means a more demanding descent on those same steep and technical sections. Consider your comfort level with steep climbs versus steep descents when deciding.