Beyond its natural charm, this route is also a journey through time: old military structures bear witness to a past of surveillance and control during the era of smuggling. Today, these military paths provide privileged access to unique panoramas and restorative silence.
The Route
The hike starts at the Val Saiento parking lot (1,992 m above sea level), reachable by about a 40-minute drive from Rogorbello, above Vervio. From the parking lot, take the mule track on the right, which climbs over a steep glacial threshold and opens up views of the green plateaus of Alpe Schiazzera.
After a few minutes, you’ll reach Rifugio Schiazzera (2,077 m), a former Guardia di Finanza barracks from the 1960s-70s, now renovated into a welcoming stop for hikers.
Behind the refuge, the trail continues to the mountain huts of Alpe Schiazzera (2,109 m). Here, following the path to the left, cross a small stream and ascend a historic military mule track once used to connect the many barracks in the area.
Turning right along the trail, you arrive at Pian Fusino, home to a small alpine pond. The mule track then climbs to the summit basin, which holds the true jewel of this route: Lake Schiazzera (2,392 m), nestled among rocks and surrounded by tiny pools of crystal-clear water.
Useful Info
- Start: Val Saiento Parking (1,992 m)
- Average duration: 1h30 (3 hours if starting from Susen, 1,508 m)
- Elevation gain: about 400 meters
- Difficulty: Hiking (suitable for moderately experienced hikers)
- Parking: Paid (€3.00), metered parking located above Vervio, at Rogorbello
Ready to set off? Pack your backpack and come discover the magic of Lake Schiazzera! Plan your hike today and let yourself be amazed by the beauty of Alta Valtellina.
