Italy — Lecco
Monte Resegone Trail: A demanding 15.5km route in Italy's Lombardy region, ascending to spectacular panoramas of Lake Como. This challenging 6-8 hour walk traverses rugged pre-Alpine terrain, offering breathtaking vistas from the "mountain of the hundred peaks." Expect significant elevation gain and a rewarding, vigorous mountain experience.
Distance: 15.5 km
Elevation Gain: 1500 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 6-8 hours
The Monte Resegone Trail is a demanding yet rewarding mountain track located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, offering spectacular panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding pre-Alpine landscape. This route is renowned for its significant elevation gain and the breathtaking vistas that unfold as you ascend towards the summit of Monte Resegone, the "mountain of the hundred peaks." It's a popular destination for hikers seeking a vigorous day out, with a challenging profile that tests fitness and endurance. The trail winds through varied terrain, from dense woodlands to exposed rocky ridges, culminating in a summit experience that feels truly earned.
The Monte Resegone Trail is a classic Italian mountain hike that provides a substantial physical challenge coupled with immense scenic reward. The journey begins with an ascent from the Piani d'Erna, a plateau accessible by cable car from Versasio, near Lecco. This initial elevation gain significantly reduces the overall climbing required from the valley floor, making the summit more accessible for a day hike. From Piani d'Erna, the trail embarks on a relentless climb towards the summit of Monte Resegone, reaching an impressive 1500 metres of elevation gain over approximately 15.5 kilometres.
The path is varied, initially traversing through dense forests of beech and fir trees, offering welcome shade during warmer months. As the altitude increases, the vegetation thins, giving way to more open, rocky terrain. The trail is well-marked, often featuring sections with stone steps or natural rock formations that require careful footing. The higher you climb, the more expansive the views become. The iconic Lake Como stretches out below, its shimmering waters contrasting with the rugged mountain landscape. On clear days, the panorama extends to the distant Swiss Alps, a truly breathtaking spectacle.
The summit of Monte Resegone, at 1875 metres, is characterised by its distinctive jagged ridge, often referred to as the "sawtooth" or "hundred peaks." This unique geological feature gives the mountain its name and provides a dramatic backdrop for the final stages of the hike. Reaching the summit is a significant achievement, offering a profound sense of accomplishment and unparalleled 360-degree views. The descent follows a similar route, allowing for a different perspective on the landscape, though it is equally demanding on the legs.
This trail is best suited for experienced hikers with a good level of fitness due to the sustained steepness and significant elevation gain. It's a journey that demands respect for the mountain environment and rewards perseverance with unforgettable vistas and a deep connection to the Italian Alps.
Monte Resegone, and the surrounding Lecco region, has a rich history intertwined with human settlement and the exploitation of its natural resources. For centuries, these mountains have provided timber, pasture for livestock, and routes for trade and communication. The presence of human activity in the area dates back to ancient times, with evidence of settlements and pathways used by various cultures throughout history.
The specific trails leading to the summit of Monte Resegone have evolved over time. Initially, these were likely simple shepherd's paths or routes used by hunters and woodcutters. The development of more formal hiking trails, particularly those accessible from Piani d'Erna, gained momentum in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as mountaineering and recreational hiking became more popular across Europe. The construction of the cable car from Versasio to Piani d'Erna in the mid-20th century was a significant development, making the higher mountain accessible to a broader range of people and facilitating the establishment of more defined hiking routes.
The name "Resegone" itself is believed to derive from the Lombard dialect word "resegón," meaning "large saw," a direct reference to the mountain's distinctive jagged summit ridge. This visual characteristic has made it a prominent landmark and a symbol of the Lecco area for generations.
The region also holds literary significance. Alessandro Manzoni, one of Italy's most celebrated novelists, set his masterpiece "The Betrothed" (I Promessi Sposi) in the Lecco area. While the novel doesn't specifically detail the Monte Resegone hike, the dramatic landscapes and the presence of the mountain undoubtedly influenced his descriptions of the Lombardy countryside, adding a layer of cultural depth to the experience of visiting this area.
The Monte Resegone Trail is a mountain hike that is highly dependent on seasonal conditions, particularly the presence of snow and ice. The optimal period for hiking this route is from June to October, when the trails are generally free of snow and ice, allowing for safe passage and maximum enjoyment of the views.
Spring (April-May): While the lower sections may become accessible, higher elevations can still hold significant snowpack. Ice can persist on shaded sections and north-facing slopes, making the trail treacherous without appropriate winter gear and experience. Conditions can be highly variable, with rapid changes in weather common.
Summer (June-August): This is the peak season for hiking Monte Resegone. The weather is typically warmer, and the trails are clear of snow. However, summer can also bring thunderstorms, especially in the afternoons. It is crucial to start early in the day to avoid the heat and the risk of being caught in a storm. The vegetation is lush, and the wildflowers can be abundant in the alpine meadows.
Autumn (September-October): Autumn offers crisp air, clear skies, and stunning autumnal colours in the forests. The crowds tend to be smaller than in mid-summer, and the temperatures are generally pleasant for hiking. This is often considered one of the best times to visit, provided there hasn't been an early snowfall. By late October, snow can begin to accumulate at higher altitudes.
Winter (November-March): Monte Resegone is typically covered in snow during winter, making it an alpine route suitable only for experienced winter mountaineers equipped with ice axes, crampons, and avalanche safety gear. The cable car may also operate on a reduced schedule or be closed during severe weather. For general hikers, this season is not recommended.
Weather Considerations: Mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable. Even during the summer months, conditions can change rapidly. Fog, rain, strong winds, and sudden drops in temperature can occur without warning. It is essential to check the weather forecast immediately before and during your hike and to be prepared for all eventualities with appropriate clothing and gear.
Early Morning: Travel to Trailhead
Morning: Ascent to Rifugio Azzoni
Midday: Summit Push and Exploration
Afternoon: Descent and Return
Important Notes:
The Monte Resegone Trail is a challenging day hike that requires careful planning to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Given its proximity to Lecco, it's an accessible destination for those staying in the city or the wider Lombardy region. The primary logistical consideration is reaching the trailhead at Piani d'Erna, which is most conveniently accessed via the cable car from Versasio. It is advisable to check the operating hours and any potential closures of the cable car in advance, especially outside of the peak summer season.
Lecco itself serves as an excellent base town. It offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses to more upscale establishments. Lecco also has good transport links, including a train station connecting to Milan and other major cities, and local bus services. For those driving, there is parking available at the Versasio cable car station, though it can become busy during peak times.
Physical fitness is paramount for this hike. The 1500 metres of elevation gain is substantial and spread over a relatively short distance, meaning the trail is consistently steep. Hikers should be comfortable with sustained uphill walking and have good cardiovascular fitness and leg strength. Practising with weighted daypacks on similar inclines is recommended.
This is a day hike requiring no overnight accommodation. The trail is designed to be completed within a single day, with hikers returning to their base accommodation in the evening. However, there is a mountain refuge, Rifugio Azzoni, located near the summit. This refuge offers basic accommodation for those wishing to stay overnight, though it is not a mandatory part of the standard day hike itinerary. Booking in advance is essential if planning to stay at the refuge.
Rifugio Azzoni Facilities (if staying overnight):
What's NOT Provided:
Seasonal Availability: The refuge is typically open from late spring through autumn, coinciding with the snow-free hiking season. It is advisable to check its specific opening dates and operating hours directly with the refuge management.
Costs: Overnight stays at mountain refuges in Italy usually involve a fee, which varies. It is best to check the refuge's official website or contact them for current pricing.
No specific permits are required to hike the Monte Resegone Trail. The trail is part of the public domain and accessible to all. However, access to the Piani d'Erna plateau is via a cable car, which requires a ticket. The cost of the cable car ticket is separate from any potential overnight stay at Rifugio Azzoni.
Cable Car Information:
Rifugio Azzoni: If you plan to stay overnight at Rifugio Azzoni, advance booking is highly recommended, especially during weekends and peak season. Contact the refuge directly to make a reservation.
National Park Regulations: While no specific permits are needed for this trail, it is important to adhere to general park regulations regarding waste disposal, respecting wildlife, and staying on marked paths. The area is part of the natural landscape and should be treated with care.
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Monte Resegone Trail (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Monte Resegone Trail, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The region surrounding Monte Resegone and Lecco offers a variety of activities for visitors looking to extend their stay or explore beyond the mountain hike:
Pre-Hike Checks:
On the Trail:
Rifugio Azzoni: If you encounter difficulties or need assistance, the Rifugio Azzoni is a point of contact. However, it is not staffed 24/7 and is primarily a place for rest and refreshment.
Hydration and Nutrition: Carry ample water and high-energy food. Dehydration and low blood sugar can lead to fatigue, poor decision-making, and increased risk of accidents.
Rifugio Azzoni: Located at 1860 metres, just shy of the summit, Rifugio Azzoni is a key point of interest and a welcome sight for weary hikers. It offers a place to rest, enjoy a drink or a meal, and soak in the initial panoramic views. The refuge itself is a traditional mountain hut, providing a sense of alpine camaraderie. It's an excellent spot for a break before the final short push to the summit or for a well-deserved meal on the descent.
Summit Ridge of Monte Resegone: The distinctive "sawtooth" ridge that gives Monte Resegone its name is a major point of interest. The summit area is not a single peak but a series of rocky outcrops and pinnacles. The views from this ridge are spectacular, offering a dramatic perspective over the Lecco branch of Lake Como and the surrounding pre-Alps. The exposed nature of the ridge adds to the sense of adventure.
Panoramic Views: The primary "point of interest" on this hike is undoubtedly the expansive scenery. From the summit, on a clear day, you can see:
Forest Sections: The lower parts of the trail wind through pleasant woodlands, offering a different character to the exposed alpine terrain higher up. These sections provide shade and a sense of immersion in the natural environment, with opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
The Monte Resegone Trail, while not within a strictly protected national park in the same vein as some international wilderness areas, is still a natural environment that deserves respect. Practising Leave No Trace principles ensures that the mountain remains a beautiful and accessible place for everyone, now and in the future.
Your responsibility as a hiker:
By adhering to these principles, you help preserve the natural beauty and integrity of Monte Resegone for future generations of hikers and nature enthusiasts.
