Trail of the Austrians (Sentiero degli austriaci), Torrione Albiolo mt.2969, Trail of the alpine soldiers (sentiero degli alpini), Passo Contrabbandieri mt.2681
This circular path is for the more daring, it has many parts that are exposed and dangerous, and in a few places only partially equipped with chains... Nevertheless its views is unparalleled. Along this route one enjoys a fantastic view of the Val Montozzo and on the snow-caped peaks that surround it. The departure point is from the San Bartolomeo Hospice, where you take the dirt road towards the Valbiolo mountain pasture; in a about 10 minutes you will arrive at Trail n. 161 which climbs rapidly up to the Tonale Orientale mountain (2696 mt). From this peak you can take in an awe-inspiring 360° panorama. Our path continues northwest along the Trail of the Austians (Sentiero degli austriaci); it runs along the crest with ups and downs until reaching the imposing Torrione Albiolo, rich with fortifications and memories of many battles. At this point it's all but obligatory to stop an admire the mirrors of blue-green of the Montozzo lakes (Don't miss the little iron stairs leading to the top!!!). Leaving the magnificent Torrione, we continue along the Trail of the Alpines (Sentiero degli alpini) that descends in altitude, in part also on screes and in part with little equipment, until the Passo dei Contrabbandieri (Smugglers' Pass). From here the return is on Trail 111 that descends skirting the ski slope and brings us back to our point of departure.