Mount Ercavallo: A panoramic trek between Trentino and Lombardy, following the historical trails of the White War.

We set off from Lake Pian Palù, its intense turquoise-green making it one of the most iconic spots in the entire Val di Sole valley. From there, we head up into Val Montozzo — a valley that keeps you guessing at first: hidden from the dam, reachable only via a steep forest trail. But the moment you cross the treeline, everything changes — Val Montozzo opens up suddenly before you in all its glory. On one side, the Albiolo massif; on the other, Monte Ercavallo; and in between, a high plateau dotted with alpine lakes just waiting to be explored.

The whistles of marmots announce our arrival (yes, they already know we're here), while our eyes scan the ridgelines in search of the ibex that call this place home.

A rocky slope with tight switchbacks climbs steadily all the way to the summit of Monte Ercavallo. The top makes it all worthwhile — spread before us is the panorama over the majestic Ortler-Cevedale range, and the silent remains of barracks and fortifications from the White War, reminders of a history that feels almost impossible in a place this beautiful.

From the summit, you retrace the entire ascent with a single glance — and already start plotting your own route across the plateau on the way back.

The descent flows easily: a small footbridge leads us back toward Malga Celentino and the dam wall, from where a short stretch of forest road brings us back to the cars.