Bormio 360
Bormio
Stage 5

The Mineral Trail

Alpe Zandilla - Sondalo Palazzetto

KM
18 Km
  • panoramaPanoramic
  • fortinimilitariMilitary forts
  • pietrepreziosePrecious stones

The name of this stage derives from the discovery of finds of considerable mineralogical value by Don Zaccaria, Sondalo's parish priest from 1878 and passionate about history.


On the trail you can find several minerals, including Anatase, Apatite, Tourmaline, Zircon, native Arsenic, and Quartz, extracted from the still active quarry. In the first section, you can admire the view over Valdisotto and Bormio, and then continue on the military mule trail that overlooks the Val Pola landslide of 28 July 1987. The remains of the trenches are clearly visible.

Details


This panoramic stage begins at Alpe Zandilla, which can be reached from Monte in 40 minutes on foot. The first section heads uphill along a series of bends, reaching 2,300m above sea level at the foot of the Zandilla pass. The area is full of First World War military trenches. From an opening through the rocks made by the military a long descent begins along a spectacular set of stairs cut into the mountainside. Continuing on you reach the edge of the Val Pola landslide, a place of haunting beauty, until you reach Baite dell’Alt. From here take the forest road to the Morelli Hospital in Sondalo, an extraordinary feat of landscape architecture and urban design unique in Italy and throughout Europe, then on to Sommacologna and finish at the Palazzetto dello Sport. There are no refreshment stops along this stage, so we recommend bringing suitable clothing and a packed lunch.

Technical info

Bussola
  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Distance: 18,98 Km
  • Hiking time: 6:15 h
  • Max. altitude: 2360 m
  • Min. altitude: 837 m
  • Elevation gain: 509 m
  • Elevation drop: 1665 m
  • Max. grad. ascent: 19%
  • Max. grad. descent: 35%
  • When to go: May - October

Details


The stage, a brand new panoramic trail, begins at Alpe Zandilla, which can be reached from the little village of Monte. After an initial ascent along a section of medium steepness, there is a long traverse with a mix of uphill and downhill sections, until you reach an opening created by the military between the rocks and a spectacular flight of steps where you need to be very careful and should carry your bike. In this area you can find a number of First World War trenches among the rocks. Continuing on you reach the edge of the Val Pola landslide, a place of haunting beauty, followed by a long descent into the valley via the Baite dell’Alt. From here take the forest road to the Morelli Hospital in Sondalo, an extraordinary feat of landscape architecture and urban design unique in Italy and throughout Europe, then on to Sommacologna and the Palazzetto dello Sport where the stage ends. There are no refreshment stops along this stage, so bring suitable clothing and a packed lunch.

Charging points: Alpe Zandilla, Sondalo.

Technical info

Bussola
  • Difficulty: Difficult
  • Distance: 18,98 Km
  • Max. altitude: 2360 m
  • Min. altitude: 837 m
  • Elevation gain: 509 m
  • Elevation drop: 1665 m
  • Max. grad. ascent: 19%
  • Max. grad. descent: 35%
  • When to go: May - October
  • Battery consumption: Medium

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Adventure
for all,
done the
right way.

trekking

At 140 km in length, with an overall height difference of 6,000 m, Bormio 360 is one of the best hiking and mountain biking itineraries in Europe. It requires a good level of fitness, agility and experience. Going with a qualified mountain bike or hiking guide is recommended.

1

Always follow the Bormio 360 marked trails.

Only use authorised routes and respect the rules.

Motivo

2

Protect the environment.

Never scare animals, don’t litter and avoid sudden braking (it erodes the soil).

3

Make sure you have suitable clothing and equipment.

Check your equipment and always use a helmet and gloves.

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4

We’re all friends on the mountain.

Always give way to hikers, announce your presence in advance, adjust your speed to the situation and don’t exceed your own limits.

5

Know yourself, respect your limits.

Plan your excursions in advance. It’s always a good idea to go with a qualified guide!

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Partner organisations

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Attention, Stage 6 - Sentiero De Li Strìa not passable. Use Easy Stage.