At Domofole Castle, a tower overlooking the lake

The starting point is already a site of great interest, the Church of Sant'Alessandro di Traona, upstream from the village and always clearly visible from the valley floor; an example of Gothic architecture, consecrated in the 17th century, with a portico that is a real photo spot. The beautiful cobblestone mule track descends to the center of Traona, to be crossed-among the most historic buildings-to cross the Vallone stream. The path to follow begins near a wash house, just above the road bridge, and is indicated by a wooden sign that points to Domofole Castle, a 45-minute walk away. The ascent is among terraces planted with vines and olive trees and deciduous woods. Domofole Castle is on a hillock 520 meters above sea level in the San Giovanni valley. The location is strategic and panoramic: the view is over the entire Bassa Valtellina and as far as Lake Como. The archaeological site includes the 12th-century tower, the 18th-century church of Santa Maria Maddalena, and the walls of another place of worship possibly built in the 5th-6th centuries.

Domofole Castle has its own legends, one for example features the daughter of Queen Theodolinda, Gundeberga, who was allegedly imprisoned here in 634 because she was accused of adultery.

The return follows the same route.