Are you tired of the chaos of the city and want to immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of nature? Val Masino, located in the heart of the Alps, is the perfect destination to spend time in the middle of nature!
Where is Val Masino?
Where is Val Masino?Val Masino is a beautiful valley located in the Lombardy region, in the province of Sondrio, Italy. It is a popular destination for mountaineering, climbing and hiking, thanks to its spectacular scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities.
This alpine paradise is crossed by the Masino River and flanked by imposing mountains. These include Monte Disgrazia, at 3,678 metres, and Monte Pioda, which rises to 3,069 metres above sea level.
The Masino Valley is also renowned for its natural beauty, with dense forests, alpine meadows and picturesque waterfalls. It is an ideal place for those who want to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing and mountain biking. There are also picturesque villages in the valley, where visitors can experience local traditions and gastronomy.
Val Masino is a true paradise for nature and adventure lovers. The valley offers a variety of hiking trails for all levels of experience, from easy trails suitable for families to more challenging trails for experienced hikers.
Val Masino: what to see and excursions
Val Masino: what to see and excursionsHere’s what you can do in Val Masino:
- Climbing and climbing for climbers and athletes: Val Masino offers sensational opportunities for those passionate about climbing and climbing. You can try ascents to imposing peaks like Monte Disgrazia and climbs on huge granite cliffs like Sasso Remenno.
- Exciting crossings and trails: For those in search of more intense adventures, Sentiero Roma offers an unforgettable experience, meandering between 2500 and 3000 meters altitude, through landscapes that seem to be suspended in the sky.
- Family-friendly activities: For those travelling as a family or preferring less extreme activities, there are trails and attractions suitable for all ages. You can explore the Cataeggio – San Martino, the Bagni Forest, the lower altitude refuges, the Val di Mello Reserve, Preda Rossa and valley-level trails such as the Sentiero dei Borghi.
What to do in Val Masino – Reserve of Val di Mello
What to do in Val Masino – Reserve of Val di MelloVal Masino is home to the Val di Mello Nature Reserve, a protected area of great scenic beauty.
Mello Valley Nature Reserve, established in 2009, is a corner of paradise, dotted with crystal-clear streams, deep green lakes, picturesque waterfalls and winding paths through tall fir trees.
The main attraction for many visitors is bouldering, but families visiting Val Masino with children are attracted by the meadows ideal for picnics and the natural pools where they can cool off in summer. The valley, which stretches smoothly down a gentle slope, is home to multiple resting places and culinary refuges.
It is important to note that in order to protect the fragile habitat of the reserve, access to the “Via Val di Mello” is limited to 40 vehicles per day. To park, visitors need to purchase a permit for €10, available at the parking meter in the San Martino car park, next to the information point. If you prefer walking, you can reach the valley from the village in about 30 minutes.
Hikes and trails in Val Masino (Trekking in Val Masino)
Hikes and trails in Val Masino (Trekking in Val Masino)Val Masino is renowned for its hikes, some aimed at experienced climbers and trekkers, but there are also trails accessible to ordinary, well-trained and properly equipped hikers, including families with children.
NEEDED TREKKING EQUIPMENT: backpack, boots, windproof jacket, sun protection (hat, sunglasses and sun cream), weather-appropriate clothing and, for those who prefer, trekking poles.
Trekking in Val Masino- The most famous trails
Trekking in Val Masino- The most famous trailsWe recommend some trails in Val Vasino:
- Ponti Refuge – 2,559 m altitude
- Omio Refuge- 2,100 meters
- Alpe Pioda- 1,560 meters
Even though these trails are also accessible to mountain enthusiasts, don’t forget to check the weather forecast before setting off and to be properly equipped.
Rifugio Ponti. The starting point is from Preda Rossa, with a moderate (609 meters) but nevertheless demanding level difference, especially on the last steep stretch and on the segment where the route crosses a collapse area. It is prudent to start early, as much of the route is exposed to the sun. As this is a mountain hut, it is crucial to have appropriate equipment.
Rifugio Omio. The route to Rifugio Omio (2,100 metres) starts from Bagni di Masino and has a considerable level difference (930 metres). The average climbing time is 2 hours and 30 minutes, but it is recommended to calculate at least three hours. The route is steep but well marked, passing through the forest and then across meadows.
Alpe Pioda. The last hike takes you to Alpe Pioda, where there is a refreshment point, and is located in Val di Mello. The starting point is from the central car park and the climb takes 2 hours (2 hours 30 minutes if you start from San Martino), with a level difference of about 400 metres. This hike offers a spectacular view of the whole Val di Mello. It is advisable to leave early so you can enjoy the coolness of the valley on your return.
Easy hiking in Val Masino
Easy hiking in Val MasinoVal Masino also offers a number of easy hikes suitable for families. These include:
- Thermal baths of Bagni di Masino
- Rasega Refuge in Val di Mello
- Predarossa Plain
The thermal baths of Bagni di Masino The route starts from the local Tourist Office and follows the Sentiero del Mulino to the village of Bregolana. From here, the trail enters the forest and follows the course of a river, emerging near the former Hotel Belvedere.
Rifugio Rasega in Val di Mello From the Val di Mello car park, the route follows the riverbed and crosses a gentle plateau. Follow the route to Cascina Piana, a complex of huts in the valley, continuing on to Rifugio Rasega. The walk takes about an hour.
Piana Predarossa for kids An easy walk to take in Val Masino with the kids is the one that leads to the Seconda Piana di Predarossa. Starting from the main car park, the route follows a marked path and passes wooden bridges, reaching a small bridge, from where you make a circuit back to the base. The level difference is about 150 metres and the total duration of the circuit is 2 hours.
WARNING! Preda Rossa has no power points or water sources, so it’s essential to bring your own lunch. The trail from the base of the valley is not difficult, but it is mostly exposed to the sun and is at an altitude of 2,000 metres, so in summer it is important to have a hat and sun cream.
Hotels and refuges in Val Masino
Hotels and refuges in Val MasinoVal Masino offers a variety of accommodation facilities, from hotels to alpine huts. Among the most famous hotels are:
- Hotel Wolf Lodge
- Hotel Restaurant Vittoria
- Hotel Valtellina
- Bietti Refuge
- Omio Refuge
- Giannetta Refuge
How to reach Val Masino from Milan
How to reach Val Masino from MilanVal Masino is easily reached from Milan by car or train. By car, you can take the A9 to Lecco and then the SS36 to Morbegno. From Morbegno, continue towards Sondrio and then take the SS38 to Val Masino.
By train, you can take the train from Milano Centrale to Tirano and then connect to Sondrio. From Sondrio, take the STT buses to Val Masino.
