Madonna di Campiglio is a charming mountain resort located in the Trentino region of Northern Italy, nestled below the majestic Brenta Dolomite Mountains. This picturesque destination offers a wealth of opportunities for walkers to immerse themselves in the stunning natural landscape.
The area around Madonna di Campiglio can be divided into five distinct regions, which are conveniently connected by cabin lifts, roads, and paths. To navigate between these areas, walkers can purchase the Dolomeet Guest Card and request the Trentino Guest Card from their hotel.
One of the most popular walking routes in Madonna di Campiglio is the Giro di Campiglio. This circular path winds its way through the forested slopes above the town and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the town below. The path is well-marked and easily accessible from several points in town, making it a great starting point for various walks branching off from it.
To reach the peak of Pradalago, walkers have two options: taking the cabin lift from the far end of town or starting from the Giro di Campiglio and following the main footpath. The latter option is an easy and open path with some moderately steep sections. Once at the peak, walkers can choose to continue to Lago Nambino or take the easier path to Lago Malghette. After enjoying a lakeside lunch, walkers can make their way back to town on foot, mostly downhill, or take the cabin lift for a more leisurely descent.
For those seeking a more challenging walk, Cinque Laghi (Five Lakes) is an option. While there is a path from the town to the peak of Cinque Laghi, it is a long, steep, and uphill trek. Taking the cabin lift and following the path behind Ristorante Cinque Laghi to Lago Ritorto is a recommended alternative. This narrow path offers stunning views of the valley below as it skirts along a steep slope. Lago Ritorto is the first lake on the Five Lakes Walk and marks the beginning of a demanding ascent to a ridge high above the lake. The walk encompasses four other lakes before descending to the final lake, Lago Nambino. This challenging hike takes approximately six hours and is recommended for experienced walkers carrying ample water and snacks.
Another option for walkers is the path from Spinale to Ristorante Boch, located halfway up the Grosté mountain. This pleasant and easy path crosses a vast Alpine meadow surrounded by the magnificent Brenta Dolomites. The meadow is adorned with colorful wildflowers, and walkers may even hear the warning call of a marmot or the soothing sound of cowbells from the roaming cattle. Ristorante Boch, conveniently situated at the mid-station of the Grosté cabin lift, offers a great resting spot for those who prefer not to walk back to town. Alternatively, walkers can descend to the base of the Grosté cabin lift and take the path through Grotte for a shortcut back to town.
Grosté, the highest peak above Madonna di Campiglio, can be reached via a two-stage cabin lift or a long and demanding uphill hike. From the peak, walkers have various options, including the path to Rifugio Tuckett, which houses a small museum dedicated to the English walker Roger Tuckett, an avid enthusiast of the region. The scree at the top of Grosté is adorned with delicate alpine flowers, providing a beautiful sight for walkers. After exploring the peak, walkers can descend either on foot or by taking the cabin lift to the mid-station.
Vallesinella is another popular walking destination near Madonna di Campiglio. This area features three waterfalls, with Cascata di Mezzo being the most impressive. The middle waterfall, Cascata di Mezzo, can be accessed via a lovely path branching off from the Giro di Campiglio, which winds through a sprawling deciduous forest. Walkers can choose to reach Vallesinella by taking a shuttle bus from the town (free with the Trentino Guest Card) or by walking up the road into the valley. The shuttle stops at a large car park above Cascata di Mezzo, from where a path leads down to the waterfall. Another option is to follow a path through the woods from the road.
From Cascata di Mezzo, walkers can continue along a path that runs alongside the tributary of the River Sarca, offering peaceful views of the flowing water. The path leads to Cascate Alte, a long waterfall formation. There is a path that winds up beside Cascate Alte, which, although challenging, is manageable for walkers wearing appropriate footwear and using walking poles. Alternatively, walkers can retrace their steps to Rifugio Vallesinella for a break before returning to town either by shuttle or by descending the road.
Madonna di Campiglio and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of walking opportunities, catering to walkers of various skill levels. Whether strolling along the Giro diCampiglio for a leisurely walk or embarking on more challenging hikes to the peaks and lakes, there is something for everyone to enjoy amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of the Dolomites. It is always advisable to check the weather conditions and consult local guides or visitor centers for up-to-date information on the walking paths and trails in the area.