A loop trail that offers a magnificent view over all of Lake Idro and the surrounding mountains. The itinerary follows the ridge overlooking the basin, alternating between wooded sections, panoramic grassy ridges, and points of historical interest linked to the life of local communities.
The departure is from Idro Pieve. The well-marked path gains elevation steadily and immediately offers suggestive glimpses of the lake waters and Valle Sabbia.
Continuing on, you reach Monte Paghera, a privileged viewpoint from which your gaze embraces the entire lake basin, the peaks of Val Vestino, and the mountains separating Valle Sabbia from Val Trompia. The ridge is pleasant to walk along, alternating open stretches with short sections in the woods.
On the descent, a short and recommended detour leads to the Croce dei Minatori, a place full of memory. The cross commemorates the mining activity that for centuries involved the workers of Valle Sabbia and nearby Val Trompia—a world made of hard work, tunnels, charcoal, and long daily commutes. It is a panoramic viewpoint and, at the same time, a place of historical testimony.
The descent continues to Anfo, a village overlooking the lake and dominated by the famous Rocca d’Anfo, one of the most important Napoleonic fortresses in Europe. Even if it is not directly part of the route, its proximity makes it an ideal destination for an additional visit.
From Anfo, the return to Idro Pieve takes place along a pleasant coastal path, almost entirely flat, which follows the lake’s profile, providing a relaxing and very scenic finish.
This itinerary combines nature, history, and the memory of labor, offering a varied and rewarding walk, perfect for those who want to get to know Lake Idro from a broader and more authentic perspective.
Roberto Boniotti
My name is Roberto Boniotti and the mountains are my life. For over 40 years, I have been exploring peaks, valleys, and trails, turning my passion into a profession that combines technical expertise, safety, and respect for nature.
My parents passed on their passion for the mountains to me from a very young age. From my first walks in the woods with my parents, I gradually began to explore the areas I encountered and to look up at the sky, toward those mountains that seemed unreachable. And with each new summit reached, new horizons and mountains to discover and explore gradually opened up.
With friends, I started attending Italian Alpine Club courses in mountaineering, ski mountaineering, and rock climbing, and eventually, the mountains became my world—discovered and yet to be discovered in all their aspects.
After many years of life experience in the mountains and having led students through the Alps as a mountaineering and ski mountaineering instructor—training them from a technical, cultural, and human perspective—I earned my Mountain Leader certification in 2021 to turn my passion into a job and share my experiences with those who want to enjoy the pleasure of the mountains with me.
A mountain trekking route is considered easy when it has a modest elevation gain, lasts a few hours, and follows well-marked trails without exposed sections.
It’s ideal for those new to the mountains, families, or anyone looking for a relaxing walk surrounded by nature.
In summary:
Always remember that weather and terrain conditions can affect the difficulty, so it’s best to set off prepared!
A mountain trekking route is defined as medium when the elevation gain increases, the walking time gets longer, and the terrain may have steeper or more irregular sections.
It requires some training and a certain familiarity with mountain environments, but is within reach of many hikers.
In summary:
Always remember that weather conditions and terrain can affect difficulty, so it’s best to start prepared!
A mountain trekking route is defined as difficult when the duration and elevation gain are significant and the trail includes more technical or exposed sections. Good physical fitness, experience, and the right gear are needed, as these itineraries are designed for those who want to challenge themselves and take on a more demanding adventure.
In summary:
Always remember that weather and terrain conditions can affect the difficulty, so it’s best to be prepared!
Mountain