The Adamello

The Adamello is one of the most iconic peaks of the Rhaetian Alps, straddling Lombardy and Trentino-Alto Adige. Standing at 3,554 meters, it’s a landmark for mountain lovers, known not only for its majestic beauty but also for its historical and natural significance. The Adamello range, part of the Southern Rhaetian Alps, stretches across Valle Camonica and Val di Sole, encompassing the Adamello-Brenta Nature Park and the Adamello Regional Park.

This area features vast ice fields, including the Adamello Glacier—one of the largest in the Italian Alps, alongside alpine lakes, enchanting valleys and rich flora and fauna. It’s a dream destination for hikers, climbers and nature enthusiasts, offering experiences both at the summit and at lower altitudes.

The Adamello massif spans Valle Camonica in Lombardy and Val di Sole and Val Rendena in Trentino. It is divided between the Adamello-Brenta Nature Park and the Adamello Regional Park, two of Italy’s largest protected areas. These parks boast diverse landscapes, from glaciers and rocky peaks to valleys with dense conifer forests, alpine pastures and crystal-clear lakes.

The Adamello Glacier is the largest glacier in the Italian Alps, covering over 17 square kilometers. Despite its retreat due to climate change, it remains a symbol of nature’s grandeur and a fascinating destination for high-altitude adventures (with proper preparation).

The Adamello is also a haven for wildlife lovers. Marmots, ibex, chamois and golden eagles are common sights, while the flora ranges from rhododendrons and edelweiss in the lower regions to lichens and hardy alpine species at higher elevations.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Adamello is steeped in history. During World War I, it was a key battleground, with Italian and Austro-Hungarian troops fighting at extreme altitudes under harsh weather conditions. Many trails and refuges, such as Rifugio Garibaldi and Rifugio Caduti dell’Adamello, still bear the marks of this past, with remnants of trenches, artillery positions and walkways.

This history has made the Adamello a significant destination for hikers interested in the poignant stories of the "White War," a battle fought amidst ice and snow. Today’s trails, many originally created for military purposes, allow visitors to connect with this dramatic history while enjoying breathtaking mountain views.

The Adamello offers a wide network of trails catering to all skill levels, from family-friendly walks to challenging routes for experienced hikers and climbers.

One of the most accessible and scenic hikes leads to Lago d'Aviolo at 1,930 meters. Starting from Vezza d'Oglio in Val Paghera, the CAI trail no. 21 winds through forests and alpine pastures to the lake, surrounded by towering peaks. The route also reaches Rifugio Sandro Occhi, an ideal stop to enjoy local specialties and stunning views of the lake.

For seasoned hikers, the classic trek from Rifugio Tonolini to Rifugio Garibaldi (2,550 meters) offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. With an elevation gain of 800 meters over a five-hour hike, this route showcases the rugged beauty of the Adamello range. Rifugio Garibaldi serves as a starting point for summiting the Adamello and exploring other peaks in Val d’Avio.