The last stage of the Sentiero delle Orobie brings you back to the starting point, Ardesio, completing the hiking loop. This route, mainly downhill, crosses the Valzurio, with its woods and pastures, offering a final opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Orobie.
Don't forget to bring your "Orobie Passport" with you to collect stamps from the huts along the route and keep a special memory of your adventure!
The last stage of the Sentiero delle Orobie takes you back to Ardesio, closing the loop. It is a predominantly downhill route, crossing the Valzurio with its woods and pastures. From Rifugio Albani, you climb to Passo dello Scagnello and continue towards the Baite del Moschel. After a section at altitude, you descend to Piazzolo and finally to Ardesio. A final opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Orobie before returning to civilization.
The contrada (hamlet) Moschel, nestled in Valzurio, is a little gem of alpine rural architecture. Immersed in a natural amphitheater of meadows and woods, it is a place where time seems to have stood still, offering an atmosphere of peace and serenity. Here are some highlights: Ancient huts (baite): The main cluster is composed of six huts, once used for the collection and sorting of barite, a mineral extracted from the mines in the area. Today, perfectly renovated, they preserve the charm of traditional architecture. Bucolic landscape: Green meadows, lush woods, and the Ogna stream flowing nearby create an idyllic landscape, ideal for relaxing and enjoying nature. "Giant's kettles" ("Marmitte dei giganti"): The Ogna stream, along its course, has carved evocative gorges into the rock, called "giant's kettles," which add a touch of magic to the landscape.
Stage details:
From Rifugio Albani to Baite del Möschel:
From Baite del Möschel to Colle Palazzo:
Valzurio: A charming valley with woods, pastures, and characteristic hamlets. Baite del Möschel: A small cluster of huts immersed in nature. Colle Palazzo: A wide meadow area with huts, a panoramic point over the Valzurio. Piazzolo: A small mountain village. Ardesio: The starting and finishing point of the loop hike, with its historic center and the Sanctuary of the Madonna delle Grazie. Useful Tips: Enjoy the last stage of the route, savoring the beauty of the landscape and the satisfaction of having completed the loop hike. Check the trail conditions before starting. Wear hiking boots and appropriate clothing. Bring enough water and food with you. Remember to take souvenir photos of the last panoramas of the Orobie. And most importantly, stop by the Vivi Ardesio office to collect the Certificate of your fantastic adventure!
