Lake Garda's alpine and excursionist refuges - From Limone sul Garda to the 'Bonaventura Segala' chalet. The excursion starts out from the bus station at the Turista bar. Take Caldogno and Milanese streets. Once you pass the small bridge of the San Giovanni stream, you walk up the steep cobblestone mule trail that runs through the Valley of Sìngol, following itinerary 101. There are many rivers and streams in the first stretch, and each valley has the characteristic calchére constructions once used to extract lime.

Leaving the river behind you, the road becomes steeper. After the three bends of the Murél, you'll enjoy the beautiful panorama overlooking the valley, closed to the north by the Preàls, Corna Vecchia and Traversole mountains.
You'll reach a junction (60 min.) with a sign for "Baita Bonaventura Segala". The trail continues right below the Mughéra peak (1,161 m), where a hill (50 min.) repays the effort with an extraordinary panorama: the village and olive grove of Limone, the hills of Tremosine, the lake garda all the way to Punta San Vigilio and Sirmione, the morainic hills and, on clearer days, even the Apennines.

Once you reach the CAI-SAT mule trail n. 422, bear left. Passing the remains of military outposts from World War I, you'll reach the Bocca Guìl (1,210; 20 min.), where you'll meet up with trail nr. 421 that comes from Leano and leads to Fortini, where the "Segala" chalet is located (1,215 m.; 40 min.). There is a shelter near the chalet for four persons. Beverages are also available. For the return trip to Limone sul Garda (two more hours), we recommend taking trail nr. 104 that starts out from the chalet and travels downhill until it reaches trails 118, 103 and 101 along the Valley of Sìngol, where it continues uphill for a stretch.

Located in Fortini, in the mountainous hinterland of the town of Limone sul Garda, at an altitude of 1,215 m, it has 4 beds and is open all year round thanks to the A.N.A. Group of Limone sul Garda. Water and wine are always available. For information: Capo-Gruppo A.N.A. Gianpaolo Girardi (tel. 0365.954016).

Info

• Departure: Limone sul Garda (65 m.)
• Arrival: Limone sul Garda (65 m.)
• Total difference in height (round trip): 2,300 m.
• Time: 6 hours
• Difficulty: ( E ) Excursionist. Itineraries on trails or tracks, usually marked and sometimes long, with exposed but well-protected sections. These routes require some experience and training.
• Period: all year
• Map: Kompass n. 071, 096, 101, 102 e 690
• Access: along State road S.S. n. 45 bis, from Riva del Garda or from Gargnano, to Limone sul Garda; parking.

Testo: Domenico prof. Fava

Useful Advice


• Mountain hiking or trekking is an adventure and an experience that brings you in contact with the mountains and nature. Since some itineraries can be difficult for an amateur or untrained excursionist or mountain climber, caution is advised.

Clothing:

• Clothing must not be exaggerated and always suitable for the season, taking into account the type of excursion, altitude and weather, which can change quickly in the mountains. Bring in your backpack sunglasses, a hat, a change of clothing, waterproof jacket with hood (the change of clothing, be it heavy or light, should depend upon the season underway).

Equipment:

• Besides wearing the right shoes (mountain or trekking boots), bring a water bottle or another beverage, a first aid emergency kit, maps, and a Swiss Army knife.

Safety:

• Always notify someone of your excursion, and if you are not accompanied by family members or friends, speak with the staff at the reception desk in your residence or hotel, and let them know of your plans. Bringing a mobile phone with you during the excursion is very helpful and might come in handy.

These measures might seem extreme, but there are many potential dangers in the mountains, and you want to avoid them. In fact, it is better to be safe than sorry!

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