Grignetta at sunset: the Cermenati trail from the Resinelli

The Grigna spires in evening light

Climbing the Grignetta at sunset is one of the most striking experiences in the Lecco pre-Alps. We start from the Piani dei Resinelli and follow the famous Sentiero Cermenati, the most direct route to the summit cross.

On the way up we cross the remarkable dolomitic landscape of the Grigna spires, rock formations studied worldwide, not least for their ancient fossils: this is where the routes that made the history of Lecco climbing were opened.

At the summit, at 2,184 metres, the spectacle is complete: a 360-degree panorama over the Alpine arc that on clear days runs from Monviso to Monte Rosa. We stop for a shared aperitif as the sun goes down, then head back with head torches on.

Why come

• the summit cross of the Grignetta at 2,184 metres, at sunset
• the dolomitic spires and fossils along the Sentiero Cermenati
• the view from Monviso to Monte Rosa on clear days
• a shared aperitif at the top, brought and divided by everyone

Who it suits

This is an intermediate but tough hike: 900 metres of ascent in just 7 kilometres, so a steep, relentless climb, with easy rock steps higher up. We come down in the dark: a head torch is mandatory, plus a windproof jacket and boots. The Piani dei Resinelli car park charges a fee.

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