Grignetta: an iconic climb

Above the woods of Abbadia Lariana, autumn sets the Grigna Meridionale ablaze with red and gold.

The experience

We set off with the Guidders from Piazzale Daniele Chiappa, at Piani Resinelli, and right from the start the trail heads decisively uphill. We cross the woods as the leaves turn yellow and copper, with the morning light filtering through the branches. As we climb, the landscape opens up: from beech woods we move to pastures, then to bare rock, until we reach the 2170 m of the highest point, the coveted summit of the Grigna Meridionale (Grignetta), where Lake Como reveals itself in all its length. The route is there-and-back: same path uphill and downhill, but with the light constantly changing, it will feel like walking through two different mountains.

This is Walter Bonatti's mountain, one of the most iconic in the Alps for its unmistakable spires: a name that carries weight, felt with every step toward the summit.

5 reasons to come - the autumn foliage setting the woods ablaze with incredible colors - the summit of Grignetta at 2170 m with a sweeping view over Lake Como and much of the Alps - walking in the footsteps of Walter Bonatti - the golden afternoon light accompanying the descent - an intense outing, but within reach of those with trained legs

Who it's suited for Good fitness and a steady will to climb are needed: the steeper sections are tackled calmly, one step at a time. It's not technical, but it requires stamina and ready legs.

Come discover the most beautiful autumn on the Grigna with the Guidders: we set off together, we climb together, we celebrate at the summit together.

How hard is it, really

What's included in the price

Itinerary

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

Day

6 km · D+ 948 m · 6h30

Meeting point 9:00approximate

Back to the cars, Via Carlo Mauri 56, 23811 Ballabio 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 MapsWazeApple Maps

A

09:00MEETING

Meeting at Piani Resinelli

We meet with the Guidders at Piazzale Daniele Chiappa, Piani Resinelli, in Abbadia Lariana (LC). The start time is indicative: the exact one will be shared on the event's Telegram group, then we head off together into the autumn trail.

B

10:30WATER

Climbing through the autumn woods

The trail gets steeper and we gain height among the warm colors of the woods. Step after step, with golden light filtering through the branches, we climb toward the more open part of the route.

C

12:30WATER

Summit and lunch break

We reach the highest point of the loop, surrounded by the peaks of the Grigne: here we stop for lunch with a view that's worth the whole climb. A moment to celebrate with the Guidders before heading down.

D

14:00WATER

Descent through autumn colors

We head back down the trail, with the woods accompanying us in a burst of foliage. The pace picks up but the scenery keeps rewarding us at every turn.

E

16:00WATER

Back to the cars

We're back at Piazzale Daniele Chiappa after a day full of views and autumn foliage. With the Guidders we treat ourselves to a cold beer or a coke together, wrapping up the hike in the best way.

What to bring

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

Questions?