The Pagans' Cave below the Presolana

The Pagans' Cave is a beautiful natural place, hidden among the rocky walls of the southern face of the Presolana, where winter gives life to a particular phenomenon: the ice stalactites and stalagmites take on shapes similar to small statues, hence the name of the cave. We are in the fascinating rock amphitheater of the Presolana, dolomitic walls that stand out towards the sky and embrace the valley below. Starting from the Presolana Pass, we ascend the comfortable path in the woods, which in less than an hour leads to Baita Cassinelli, a welcoming refuge that already enjoys the immense view of the Queen (Presolana). Continuing from here, we go up through the Valley of Shadows, beginning to rediscover the snowy winter environment, until we reach the Città di Clusone Bivouac on its panoramic spur. One last push, climbing the last slopes, and here is the cave! We can admire the art in the shapes and fantasy of nature, with the open view of the snowy basin and the villages at the bottom of the valley. After a stop for a packed lunch, we will leave, returning if possible with a loop from the classic path.

The experience

The Pagans' Cave is a beautiful natural place, hidden among the rocky walls of the southern face of the Presolana, where winter gives life to a particular phenomenon: the ice stalactites and stalagmites take on shapes similar to small statues, hence the name of the cave. We are in the fascinating rock amphitheater of the Presolana, dolomitic walls that stand out towards the sky and embrace the valley below. Starting from the Presolana Pass, we ascend the comfortable path in the woods, which in less than an hour leads to Baita Cassinelli, a welcoming refuge that already enjoys the immense view of the Queen (Presolana). Continuing from here, we go up through the Valley of Shadows, beginning to rediscover the snowy winter environment, until we reach the Città di Clusone Bivouac on its panoramic spur. One last push, climbing the last slopes, and here is the cave! We can admire the art in the shapes and fantasy of nature, with the open view of the snowy basin and the villages at the bottom of the valley. After a stop for a packed lunch, we will leave, returning if possible with a loop from the classic path.

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

12 km · D+ 950 m · 5 h

The stops · 12 km

Meeting point 8:30approximate

Parcheggio Passo della Presolana, Via Cantoniera 20a, 24020 Castione della Presolana provincia di Bergamo, 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

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08:30MEETING

Presolana Pass Parking

Meeting point with free parking.

09:30MOUNTAIN HUT

Baita Cassinelli Mountain Hut

Mountain hut approximately one hour from the trailhead.

10:30BIVOUAC

"Città di Clusone Bivouac: Your High-Altitude Mountain Refuge"

Bivacco Città di Clusone: a scenic viewpoint near the Savina Chapel, a memorial to those lost on Presolana.

11:00VIEWPOINT

"Pagans' Cave"

"We've reached our destination! We'll stop here for a picnic lunch."

15:30RETURN

Back to the trailhead/parking lot.

Return trip, with the option to create a loop using the summer trail, conditions permitting.

What to bring

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

Questions?