Autumn Foliage: Val di Rezzalo

The easiest access to Val di Rezzalo starts from Località Fumero. Shortly after Sondalo, along the SS38, take the exit for Le Prese and follow signs for Frontale, climbing the valley sides along a steep but panoramic road until reaching the small hamlet of Fumero. From there continue to Località Fontanaccia, where a basic but functional parking lot is available, the starting point of the hike.

The itinerary is also passable with a joelette, but requires good organization: the terrain is sometimes uneven and includes some challenging climbs, so it is recommended to have at least four guides.

The walk begins along a quiet dirt road that leads into a conifer forest. In autumn this section is particularly suggestive: the larches turn golden and the undergrowth takes on copper and red tones, providing a warm and silent atmosphere. Climbing, you encounter the huts of Pontela and further ahead the locality Le Gande. The valley progressively opens up and reveals its wide central basin, where at 1,850 meters is the San Bernardo plateau, dominated by the namesake alpine chapel, a true icon of Val di Rezzalo.

At the marked junction (see waypoint), it is possible to branch left along the path leading to Rifugio La Baita, an accessible facility where you can take a break and taste typical Valtellina dishes. Those who wish to continue exploring the valley can keep following the main trail, which almost levels off going further into Val di Rezzalo to the locality Merlo, equipped with a picnic area and fountain: an ideal spot for a break immersed in nature and the colors of autumn foliage.