The route begins in Pozzolo, one of the small hamlets that make up Gavirate, an area inhabited since ancient times. The atmosphere still reflects that of traditional rural villages, and the hike starts gently, passing an old washhouse before continuing along the first streets of the settlement. The path then gradually ascends, leaving the houses behind and reaching the area of Cà dei Monti.

From here, the road widens and climbs along the side of the valley, surrounded by woodland and silence. The route continues without particular difficulty, with a few well-signposted junctions, while the ascent becomes progressively steeper.

Within the Campo dei Fiori Nature Reserve, the landscape takes on a different character. The route crosses the distinctive “Strada Rossa”, a section marked by reddish soil, where the trail appears cut directly into the mountainside. As the hike continues, the climb becomes more demanding yet increasingly rewarding.

After passing Prà Camaré, the final stretch of the old military road is followed. A series of switchbacks leads to Forte di Orino, an ancient structure of the Cadorna Line that now serves as an exceptional panoramic viewpoint. From here, the view extends across the Prealps, the Piedmont Alps, the surrounding plains, and the lakes of the Varese area, providing a truly memorable conclusion to the hike.

@lucchinialessandra

DETAILS:

• Duration: 3 hours
• Distance: 4 km
• Difficulty: difficult
• Altitude: 800 mt.
• Starting point: Pozzolo (Gavirate)
• Arrival point: Orino fort
• Parking: yes

*It is recommended to use GPS.

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