Monte Croce and Porta di Prada

A cross on the summit, a rock arch shaped by time, and the Grigne staring right back at you.

The experience

We set off with the Guidders from Esino Lario, climbing toward Monte Croce, 1851 meters of pure panorama: Grigna, Lake Como and the whole alpine arc open up as we go. The route is a loop weaving through woods, pastures and ridges, with a few steeper stretches that keep us on our toes without ever worrying us. Just below the summit we reach the Baitello dell'Amicizia, an always-open bivouac built by the local community: a perfect spot to catch our breath. Heading down toward Bocchetta di Prada, an optional detour leads us to the striking Porta di Prada, a natural rock arch carved by time.

A plaque at the Baitello says it all: built "to serve those who climb the mountain, a symbol of renewed bond with our mountains."

5 reasons to join - Monte Croce with views over Grigna and Lake Como - a loop that keeps the scenery changing - the Baitello dell'Amicizia, always open - the Arco di Prada, a unique rock formation - 360° views across the whole alpine arc

Who it's for An accessible hike, even for those with little experience, with a few steeper stretches that are easy to handle with steady legs.

Join us: the Guiddy community is waiting for you at the top.

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

8 km · D+ 750 m · 4h30

Meeting point 9:00approximate

Esino Lario. 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 Vò di Moncodeno car park

We meet up with the Guidders at the Vò di Moncodeno car park, above Esino Lario (LC), ready to head towards Monte Croce. The start time is indicative and may change with the season: the exact time will be shared in the event's Telegram group.

B

10:30WATER

Climbing towards the Monte Croce ridge

The trail climbs steadily through the woods and then opens up, with the slope building step by step. All around us the Grigne peaks start to show themselves in all their grandeur.

C

10:45SUMMIT

Monte Croce with a view of the Grigna

We're at the summit of Monte Croce, with the Grigna towering above us and Lake Como sparkling below, surrounded by breathtaking views. A simple goal, but one that delivers真正的emotions.

D

11:30PASS

Porta di Prada Pass

From Monte Croce, we continue towards Monte Pilastro along the easy ridge, where we'll then begin the steep but short descent down to Bocchetta di Prada, before reaching the second highlight of the hike: Porta di Prada, the iconic natural arch. After a well-deserved stop for photos and a chat about the formation, we resume with the final climb to conquer the highest point of our hike, Bocchetta di Piancaformia (1805 m). From here, we'll begin our descent towards Rifugio Bogani.

E

13:00MOUNTAIN HUT

Bogani Hut

The Rifugio Stutato, just above the Alpe di Moncodeno, will be our spot for the lunch break before heading back to the cars, closing the loop as we pass through the alpine pasture.

F

15:30WATER

Return to Vò di Moncodeno car park

We close our loop back at the Vò di Moncodeno car park, after a day among ridges, refuges and breathtaking views. Once the hike is done with the Guidders, we hang out by the cars for a cold beer or a coke together.

What to bring

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

Questions?