Difficulty: Intermediate, 783 m of elevation gain, 17 km, highest point 1877 m.

What does the price include?

Included: Guiddy accident insurance, Guiddy Coordinator (runs the group, Telegram included) and Guiddy points for the loyalty programme. Not included: Packed lunch or lunch at the hut, Car pooling among participants and Parking.

Return to the cars at Culmine San Pietro, Cassina Valsassina (LC).

IT EN

GUIDDY EXPERIENCE

iWhat does it mean?

Artavaggio Plateau Loop & Cazzaniga-Merlini Hut: Autumn in Valsassina

Localita' Culmine San Pietro, Lecco · Lombardia•1 day · Saturday•Hiking · 1,877 m

Difficulty ?

INTERMEDIATE PLUS

Where?

Lecco, Lombardia

On your own?

No problem

Points

+17

Artavaggio Plateau Loop & Cazzaniga-Merlini Hut: Autumn in Valsassina

Community photos

See all photos

Overview

The experience

Difficulty

What's included

Itinerary

Carpooling

What to bring

Your guide

Reviews

Questions

WHY THIS HIKE

Artavaggio Autumn Loop

An amphitheater that looks like the Dolomites, but we're in Valsassina.

Group chat a couple of days before

Come alone, leave with new friends

The experience

We set off with the Guidders from Culmine San Pietro, through woods that blaze red and gold in autumn, and climb steadily towards the Piani di Artavaggio. The route is a loop: you climb through beech forests and alpine pastures, cross the plateaus where the rare strachitunt cheese is produced, and reach the Rifugio Cazzaniga-Merlini, 1888 m, perched on an almost vertical rocky spur. All around, the amphitheater of the Campelli group truly resembles the Dolomites in the shape and color of its rock. In the golden light of the afternoon, the panorama opens up to the Resegone and, on clear days, beyond the Po Valley.

The refuge has reopened after years of closure: today it's once again a genuine stopping point, with a restaurant and a wealth of mountain history behind it.

5 reasons to come - a complete loop in the heart of Valsassina - the Rifugio Cazzaniga-Merlini suspended on the rock - the autumn foliage that sets the woods ablaze - a rocky amphitheater reminiscent of the Dolomites - open views all the way to the Resegone

Who it's suitable for A long hike but with no technical difficulties: you'll need trained legs and the desire to spend a whole day outdoors.

Join the Guidders: book now and enjoy autumn at the Piani di Artavaggio.

GOOD TO KNOW

Group chat

It opens a couple of days before: that's where the meeting point is confirmed and carpooling is arranged.

Free cancellation up to 3 days before

For the selected date: by 17 November, 23:59. You pay nothing when you book.

Recommended age 25–45

It's not a rule: it just tells you what kind of group to expect. You can still sign up if you're outside this range.

Guiddy accident insurance

Included in the price.

+17 Guiddy points

Your points grow with every outing, level you up and unlock discounts, exclusive outings and goodies.

Guiddy Coordinator (runs the group, Telegram included)

Included in the price.

Dog friendly

Your dog can come: add them when you book.

How hard is it, really

Guiddy scale

INTERMEDIATE PLUS

F+

I+

D+

783 m D+ · 17 km · 6h30

Easy

Perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without too much effort. Short, well-marked trails with gentle slopes. No technical difficulties, just a desire to walk, breathe in the fresh air, and share the day with a group.

Ideal for: Beginners, families, those who want to take their first steps in trekking.

Easy Plus

A little faster pace, but still accessible. Slightly longer routes or with a few more hills, requiring some walking experience. The terrain is always easy and safe.

Ideal for: Those who walk regularly and want to challenge themselves a little.

Intermediate

Here we enter the world of true trekking. Steeper climbs, stretches on uneven or longer trails that require stamina. The physical effort is medium to high, and the fatigue is noticeable... but so is the satisfaction!

Ideal for: Those who already have experience and a good level of physical fitness.

When the mountains begin to take their toll. More challenging routes in terms of gradient or duration, with technical sections or uneven terrain. Even a medium elevation gain can be tough if concentrated in just a few kilometers

Ideal for: Trained hikers, accustomed to walking on mountain paths

Difficult

Level suitable for experienced hikers with excellent stamina and surefootedness. The physical challenge is high, and there may be steep sections or possible exposure, which is always noted in the hike description. Perfect for those who enjoy pushing their limits and conquering significant peaks.

Ideal for: Those who already have experience in an Alpine environment and want to challenge themselves.

Difficult Plus

Only for true Guidders with their Wild Spirit at its peak Long routes, significant elevation gain (over 1,100 m), and technical or exposed terrain. Excellent physical preparation, sure-footedness, and the ability to manage fatigue at high altitude are required.

Ideal for: Highly trained and experienced hikers in the mountains.

WHAT YOU NEED BEFORE YOU GO

✓

BEFORE YOU GO

Go to bed early, have a good breakfast and drink before you set off: you've got 6h30 and 783 m of ascent ahead, you need regular training, it's a pace to keep up for hours

✓

IN YOUR BACKPACK

Warm layers, a windproof jacket, 1.5 litres of water and a headlamp: the days are getting shorter, plus poles. Always with you: a plaster, an antiseptic wipe and a small bag for rubbish

What's included in the price

✓INCLUDED

✓Qualified hiking guide

✓Guiddy accident insurance

✓Guiddy Coordinator (runs the group, Telegram included)

✓Guiddy points for the loyalty programme

✕NOT INCLUDED

✕Packed lunch or lunch at the hut

✕Parking

✕Travel to Localita' Culmine San Pietro

To get there, there's Guiddy carpooling, below.

Itinerary

One day, approximate times. The final details come in the group chat.

Elevation gain

783 m

Max altitude

1,877 m

Distance

17 km

Duration

6h30

Saturday

21 Nov

17 km · D+ 783 m · 6h30

Meeting point 9:00approximate

Meeting at Culmine San Pietro, Localita' Culmine San Pietro 4, 23817 Cassina Valsassina provincia di Lecco, Italia. The exact time is confirmed in the group chat. We usually meet a little earlier for breakfast together, when possible.

HOW TO GET THERE

Google Maps Waze Apple Maps

09:00MEETING

Meeting at Culmine San Pietro

We meet the Guidders at Culmine San Pietro, in Cassina Valsassina (LC): the time is indicative, the exact one will be shared on the event's Telegram group. We set off surrounded by autumn colors, ready for the loop to Piani di Artavaggio.

10:30WATER

Climb towards the pass

The trail climbs steadily through golden woods, step by step we gain altitude as the forest glows yellow and copper. First real glimpse of the valley panorama below.

11:30WATER

Piani di Artavaggio

We leave the forest behind and the Artavaggio amphitheater opens up, with the Campelli rocks glowing almost Dolomite-like in the autumn light. A natural balcony that takes your breath away.

12:30WATER

Rifugio Cazzaniga-Merlini — lunch break

We reach Rifugio Cazzaniga-Merlini, perched on a rocky spur below Bocchetta di Piazzo: here we stop for lunch with Sodadura and Cima di Piazzo towering above us. Incredible views over the whole valley and the Resegone in the distance.

16:00WATER

Return to the cars at Culmine San Pietro

We close the loop back at Culmine San Pietro with the golden afternoon light accompanying the last stretch. We enjoy a cold beer or a coke together with the Guidders before saying goodbye.

How do you get to Localita' Culmine San Pietro? By carpooling.

You say so when booking, then you get organised in the Telegram group. Contacts and costs are agreed between you: a seat isn't guaranteed.

WHO'S ALREADY GOING

for the selected date

2 cars with 7 free seats for this date.

With a Guiddy profile you can see where they leave from and who's looking for a ride.

Create a free profileAlready have a profile? Log in

2 cars

7 free seats

What to bring

A list made for this hike. No technical gear: just good shoes and a well-packed backpack.

Trekking boots

REQUIRED

Backpack

REQUIRED

Water supply

REQUIRED

Windproof

REQUIRED

Packed lunch

REQUIRED

Trekking poles

RECOMMENDED

Cap

RECOMMENDED

Sunscreen

RECOMMENDED

Layered clothing

RECOMMENDED

Your guide

Guide for this date · Saturday 21 November

Armando G.

· 13 outings with Guiddy

★TOP GUIDE

We'll email you when they have a new outing on the calendar.

Hi Guidders! 🧡 I'm Armando, a mid-mountain leader and International Mountain Leader. The mountains are a school of life and a natural gym for me. I've worked between nature and adventure for years: I was an instructor and rescuer in adventure parks and a rope access technician, and that path is what led me to guiding. I spend most of my days among woods and summits, and the striking thing is that every sunrise and every view still manages to surprise me — after all these years, that's saying something. On my outings I bring experience, care for safety and plenty of passion: the goal is to let you live the mountains for real, together with the Guidders. 🥾🌄 See you in the mountains, Guidders!

Italiano

Guida di Media Montagna

Also with the group

Martina T.

Guiddy Coordinator · 5 outings with Guiddy

Hi Guidders! 🧡 I'm Martina, a Guiddy coordinator — though everyone calls me Lamartucci, yes, exactly that. I'm a biologist and naturalist in love with nature in all its forms: a biologist by training, an explorer by passion. I like sharing it, telling it and letting the people walking with me live it, step by step. My favourite outings? The panoramic, good and long ones, where you eat up the kilometres among smiles, breathtaking landscapes and that contagious joy only a day in nature can give you. Walking with me means enjoying the day, eating well, laughing a lot and going home with your batteries full of endorphins. And along the way there are plenty of little nature briefings on flora, fauna and the views around us. Backpack ready? Mine is. 🌞 See you in the mountains, Guidders!

We'll email you when they have a new outing on the calendar.

PICKED FOR YOU BY IBEX

Right for you

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Reviews

Only from people who completed the outing.

5.0

9 reviews

Itinerary5.0

Organisation5.0

Overall experience5.0

Luca M.

Outing on 31 October 2026

I piani Caravaggio sono una meta piacevole da raggiungere in ogni stagione.. mi mancava la stagione autunnale ed i colori che ci hanno accompagnato sono stati speciali, Beniamino e Francesca hanno gestito ottimamente un gruppo tutto sommato numeroso facendo sentire tutti coinvolti nella giornata, ottima l organizzazione per il pranzo al Cazzaniga, a differenza del più classico Nicola, grazie 😊

Your guideThe Coordinator

Roberta A.

Outing on 31 October 2026

Bellissima giornata con tante tante risate: un Halloween fuori dall'ordinario! Abbiamo pranzato di gran gusto al rifugio Cazzaniga Merlini con una lunga tavolata all'aperto: un 31 ottobre con un bel cielo terso e un sole ancora tiepido con vista frontale sul Resegone, che giornata! Prima di incamminarci sulla strada del ritorno abbiamo scattato tante belle foto con varie maschere in perfetto stile Halloween-Horror, quante risate!

Your guideThe Coordinator

Isabella B.

Outing on 31 October 2026

Your guideThe Coordinator

Omar S.

Outing on 31 October 2026

Giornata bellissima!!!! Tra fogliage e paesaggi fantastici ☺️ Compagnia al top con festeggiamenti di Halloween super divertente 🤣🤣🤣 Un grazie a tutto il gruppo alla guida e coordinatrice!!!!

Your guideThe Coordinator

Lorenzo M.

Outing on 31 October 2026

Bellissime atmosfere autunnali, cibo del rifugio ottimo ed il giro ad anello è sempre la soluzione più divertente.

Your guideThe Coordinator

Mariagiovanna D.

Outing on 31 October 2026

Your guideThe Coordinator

Questions?

I've only done easy trails, can I come?

⌄

Flat or slightly inclined sections with short stretches on steep slopes and rocks, not tiring or demanding. You need to be fit enough to walk for 6h30 with 783 m of ascent. If in doubt, message Ibex on WhatsApp.

Can I join on my own?

⌄

How does carpooling work?

⌄

What happens if the weather is bad?

⌄

What if the group doesn't reach the minimum?

⌄

Until when can I cancel?

⌄

Book now, pay only if it goes ahead

Artavaggio Plateau Loop & Cazzaniga-Merlini Hut: Autumn in Valsassina

Localita' Culmine San Pietro, Cassina Valsassina (LC) · Lombardia

1 day · Hiking · 1,877 m

Elevation gain

783 m

Max altitude

1,877 m

Distance

17 km

Duration

6h30

Guiddy points

+17

9 photos

+5 photos

WHY THIS HIKE

Artavaggio Autumn Loop

An amphitheater that looks like the Dolomites, but we're in Valsassina.

Come alone, leave with new friends

The experience

The refuge has reopened after years of closure: today it's once again a genuine stopping point, with a restaurant and a wealth of mountain history behind it.

Who it's suitable for A long hike but with no technical difficulties: you'll need trained legs and the desire to spend a whole day outdoors.

Join the Guidders: book now and enjoy autumn at the Piani di Artavaggio.

How hard is it

Guiddy scale

INTERMEDIATE PLUS

F+

I+

D+

783 m D+ · 17 km · 6h30

Easy

Ideal for: Beginners, families, those who want to take their first steps in trekking.

Easy Plus

A little faster pace, but still accessible. Slightly longer routes or with a few more hills, requiring some walking experience. The terrain is always easy and safe.

Ideal for: Those who walk regularly and want to challenge themselves a little.

Intermediate

Ideal for: Those who already have experience and a good level of physical fitness.

Ideal for: Trained hikers, accustomed to walking on mountain paths

Difficult

Ideal for: Those who already have experience in an Alpine environment and want to challenge themselves.

Difficult Plus

Ideal for: Highly trained and experienced hikers in the mountains.

WHAT YOU NEED BEFORE YOU GO

✓

BEFORE YOU GO

Go to bed early, have a good breakfast and drink before you set off: you've got 6h30 and 783 m of ascent ahead, you need regular training, it's a pace to keep up for hours

✓

IN YOUR BACKPACK

Warm layers, a windproof jacket, 1.5 litres of water and a headlamp: the days are getting shorter, plus poles. Always with you: a plaster, an antiseptic wipe and a small bag for rubbish

What's included

INCLUDED

✓Qualified hiking guide

✓Guiddy accident insurance

✓Guiddy Coordinator (runs the group, Telegram included)

✓Guiddy points for the loyalty programme

NOT INCLUDED

✕Packed lunch or lunch at the hut

✕Parking

✕Travel to Localita' Culmine San Pietro

Itinerary

Saturday · approximate times

Explore the map

5 stops

Meeting point 9:00Meeting at Culmine San Pietro

We usually meet a little earlier for breakfast together, when possible.

Google Maps Waze Apple Maps

09:00MEETING

Meeting at Culmine San Pietro

10:30WATER

Climb towards the pass

The trail climbs steadily through golden woods, step by step we gain altitude as the forest glows yellow and copper. First real glimpse of the valley panorama below.

11:30WATER

Piani di Artavaggio

We leave the forest behind and the Artavaggio amphitheater opens up, with the Campelli rocks glowing almost Dolomite-like in the autumn light. A natural balcony that takes your breath away.

12:30WATER

Rifugio Cazzaniga-Merlini — lunch break

16:00WATER

Return to the cars at Culmine San Pietro

We close the loop back at Culmine San Pietro with the golden afternoon light accompanying the last stretch. We enjoy a cold beer or a coke together with the Guidders before saying goodbye.