Lago Branchino: from Valcanale below Pizzo Arera

A single hectare of water hidden in the Orobie

In the middle of the Orobie Alps lies a small, hidden gem: Lago Branchino, a pool of barely one hectare set among some of the range's most imposing peaks and watched over by Pizzo Arera.

There are several ways in; we start from lovely Valcanale, above Ardesio. The trail alternates mule tracks through woodland with more open stretches, at gentle gradients and with views widening at every bend. We reach Passo Branchino, from where Val Seriana and Val Brembana are taken in together, and from there the lake.

To round off the day there is a stop at Rifugio Branchino for a traditional lunch, then a second one at Rifugio Alpe Corte for a herbal tea before heading down: 12 kilometres and 800 metres of ascent, with two huts along the way.

Why come

• Lago Branchino below Pizzo Arera, one of the finest corners of the Orobie
• Passo Branchino, with Val Seriana and Val Brembana in a single view
• a traditional lunch at Rifugio Branchino
• the herbal tea stop at Alpe Corte before heading back

Who it suits

This is an intermediate hike: 800 metres of ascent over twelve kilometres, at steady gradients and with no technical sections. Suited to anyone who walks fairly regularly. Bring boots, water and a windproof jacket: there is no shortage of wind at the pass.

Come with the Guidders: book your place and let's walk up to the Branchino.