Grignetta: a loop from Mandello with 1,500 metres of climbing

From the lake to the realm of spires, in a single day

Some routes stay with you, and the 1,500-metre loop on the Grignetta is one of them. An intense, panoramic, wild day that starts from the quiet lanes of Rongio, in Mandello del Lario, and climbs to the realm of the spires: where the rock forms a natural cathedral above Lake Como.

From the village we take the woodland trail, a climb that gives nothing away but offers glimpses of the lake between the branches from the start. At Bivacco Baitello di Manavello the view opens onto the first Grigna spires; higher up, at Rifugio Rosalba, we stop for a long lunch with the Cresta Segantini in front of us.

The return closes the loop down another flank: eleven kilometres in all, with the height gain packed into the first half.

Why come

• 1,500 metres of ascent: the most demanding loop on the Grignetta
• Bivacco Baitello di Manavello, facing the spires
• Rifugio Rosalba and the view of the Cresta Segantini
• you start at the lake and end among dolomite towers

Who it suits

This is a hard hike: 1,500 metres of ascent in seven hours, climbing steadily with rock sections where a sure step is needed. For those who already have the legs and the experience. Bring sturdy boots, poles and plenty of water: there are no fountains on the route.

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