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Colle Baranca and Villa Aprilia – A panoramic trek between Val Mastallone and Macugnaga.
Guiddy Difficulty Levels
Intermediate
Description
An excursion through history, alpine pastures and spectacular views in the heart of Val Sesia
There's a trek in Piedmont that truly manages to combine everything: authentic nature, pristine alpine views, and a touch of mystery that makes it even more fascinating. This trek to Colle Baranca, starting from Val Mastallone (province of Vercelli), is one of those experiences that the Guidders remember for a long time.
You walk among alpine pastures, votive shrines and historical paths, with your gaze gradually opening towards the high altitudes of Monte Rosa. And then, almost suddenly, she appears: Villa Aprilia, a Liberty ruin suspended in time, which tells a story still shrouded in mystery today.
A complete, panoramic and deeply immersive excursion, perfect for those looking for a trek that's different from the usual.
🌄 What makes this trek unique
This itinerary has a dual soul: on one hand, the natural dimension, with green valleys, alpine lakes and open views; on the other, the historical and cultural one, made of alpine pastures, forgotten architectures and traces of life in the mountains.
The ascent along the Val Mastallone, a side valley of Val Sesia, is gradual and never monotonous. You pass from wooded environments to increasingly open spaces, until you reach the evocative Lago del Colle Baranca, a body of water nestled between the mountains.
And above all, the scenic presence of the abandoned Art Nouveau villa dominates, making this trek truly iconic.
If you are looking for an excursion that combines nature, history and spectacular views, this trek to Colle Baranca is a choice that leaves its mark.
👉 Join the Guidders and discover one of the most fascinating itineraries in Val Sesia, among alpine lakes, alpine pastures and high-altitude mysteries.
A true experience, to be lived step by step.
Booking info
Free cancellation
To receive a refund, you have time to cancel up to 3 days in advance.
Insurance included
Injury and luggage insurance coverage with Unipol Sai.
Group chat
After booking, a few days before the event, you'll be added to the group chat for info about the trek, meeting time, and to coordinate carpooling.
Carpooling
We always organize carpooling, so even if you don’t have a car, don’t worry: we’ll find a way to get you there!
Guide
Roberto
Hi Guiders! I'm someone who grew up surrounded by trails, cows, and a whole lot of curiosity. I've been hiking in the mountains ever since my father decided to take us "up there," all together. I'd barely learned to stand on flat ground, but it was among ridges, forests, and rocky paths that I truly learned to walk. Trained as an architect, I've always observed how humans inhabit the mountains: shelters, alpine pastures, traces of life suspended between nature and human ingenuity. For over ten years, I've been guiding hikers through valleys, peaks, and forgotten alpine meadows, immersing ourselves in nature with all our senses to grasp its full charm. My mountain experience is this: continuous exploration, authentic experiences, absolute safety, and genuine well-being. It's a never-ending whirlwind of outdoor adventures... and I never want it to end. 🧡🌄
See his other routes