Rifugio Omio: the granite amphitheatre of Val Masino

Granite, golden larches and a natural amphitheatre

A panoramic hike in the wild heart of Val Masino, where every step brings the scent of woodland and that authentic feeling of real mountains. From Bagni di Masino we climb among firs and larches, crossing meadows and streams and passing an old stone bridge over the torrent.

Higher up we emerge at Alpe Oro, surrounded by enormous blocks of granite — boulders from an old landslide that shaped this slope. From here the trail opens onto a spectacular natural amphitheatre, ringed by peaks that made the history of Italian climbing.

Rifugio Omio, at 2,100 metres, looks straight out over this scene. It is 9 kilometres and 930 metres of ascent: a continuous climb, but the reward at the top is one of the finest views in the Valtellina.

Why come

• the granite amphitheatre of Val Masino
• Alpe Oro and the boulders of the old landslide
• Rifugio Omio at 2,100 metres, facing the peaks
• golden larches in the foliage weeks

Who it suits

This is an intermediate hike: 930 metres of ascent over nine kilometres, climbing continuously with sections among boulders where care is needed. Bring boots with a good sole, poles and water.

Come with the Guidders: book your place and let's climb to the Omio.