Monte Cavallo from Mezzoldo: ridge and Passo San Simone

Real Orobie: a long climb, panoramic all the way

Monte Cavallo from Mezzoldo, in Val Brembana, is one of those hikes that taste of the authentic Orobie: a long, steady, hugely panoramic climb to a broad, bright summit at 2,323 metres, one of the most classic goals in the Bergamo mountains.

We start near Ponte dell'Acqua, above Mezzoldo, following CAI trail 115 up Val Terzera between thin woodland, pastures and old huts. The route climbs steadily towards the alpine dairies and then to Passo San Simone, where the landscape changes character: wider, airier, properly high mountain.

From there we branch off to the summit of Monte Cavallo, clearly recognisable on the ridge. It is 12 kilometres and 1,100 metres of ascent: the reward is a sweep taking in the Bergamo and Valtellina Orobie, with a packed lunch sitting on the top.

Why come

• the summit of Monte Cavallo at 2,323 metres, broad and panoramic
• CAI trail 115 up Val Terzera, between huts and pastures
• Passo San Simone, where the mountain opens up
• an 1,100-metre climb: the kind that leaves you satisfied

Who it suits

This is an intermediate but long hike: 1,100 metres of ascent in six and a half hours, on a marked trail with no technical sections. Trained legs are needed. Bring boots, plenty of water and a packed lunch: there are no open huts along the way.

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