Bivacco Valerio Festa: Lago d'Aviolo and Passo Galinera

A terrace at 2,319 metres above the lake

Bivacco Valerio Festa stands at Passo Galinera, at 2,319 metres, in one of the finest basins of the Adamello Park. From up there you can pick out the imposing Monte Aviolo, Cima Baitone and Corno delle Granate: the peaks that close this corner of Val Camonica.

Below the pass lie the waters of Lago d'Aviolo, one of the best-known lakes in the park. Just before it stands the hut of the same name, where we stop for a drink: in the meadows around, in early summer, edelweiss are everywhere.

It is 10 kilometres and 1,000 metres of ascent over seven hours: a continuous, demanding climb, repaid by a bivouac that is effectively a terrace hanging above the lake.

Why come

• Bivacco Festa at Passo Galinera, looking down on Lago d'Aviolo
• Lago d'Aviolo, one of the finest lakes in the Adamello Park
• Monte Aviolo, Cima Baitone and Corno delle Granate all around
• the edelweiss in the meadows above the hut

Who it suits

This is a hard hike: 1,000 metres of ascent over ten kilometres, with a continuous climb and stony ground higher up. Trained legs and a sure step are needed. Bring sturdy boots, poles and plenty of water. The Rifugio La Cascata car park costs 4 euros a day and is not included.

Come with the Guidders: book your place and let's climb to Bivacco Festa.