Passo San Marco: Trek to Lake Pescegallo and Rifugio Salmurano

A sixteenth-century road, the trenches and an alpine lake

One of the most complete hikes in the Bergamo Orobie Alps: an excursion that brings together nature, history and sweeping panoramas. We set off from Rifugio Passo San Marco 2000, above Mezzoldo, and follow the ancient Via Priula, the trade route built by the Republic of Venice in the sixteenth century to connect Bergamo to Valtellina without crossing Milanese territory.

We walk to the historic Cantoniera San Marco, a former Venetian customs post, and continue on to Passo Verrobbio, where we visit trenches and tunnels from the First World War, still standing where they always were. From there the trail climbs through pastures and rocks up to Lago di Pescegallo, a crystal-clear lake overlooking Valtellina.

The second part is a long, scenic traverse through high-altitude meadows that leads back to the pass, closing the loop: 13 kilometres and 860 metres of elevation gain, six hours of walking with open views the whole way.

Why come

• the Via Priula, a sixteenth-century Venetian road still walkable today
• the trenches and tunnels of the Great War at Passo Verrobbio
• Lago di Pescegallo with views over Valtellina

Who it's suitable for

This is an intermediate hike: 940 metres of elevation gain spread over twelve kilometres, on alpine terrain but without technical difficulties. You'll need hiking boots, water and a windproof jacket: the wind is almost always blowing at the pass.

Join the Guidders: book now and let's walk the Via Priula together.