Trekking Maggiore Stage 2: Rifugio La Reggia-Rifugio Arena

This typical alpine village still retains its traditional architecture and is surrounded by coniferous woods and green pastures. From here you head for the upper stretches of the Sfille valley and then the Arena mountain refuge in the Onsernone valley. As you cross the village, you cannot fail to notice signs of the creeping landslide on which it stands. The edge can be seen just a few metres below the road and houses. Today it has finally stopped, but clearly reminds everyone of the power of nature.

After a few minutes along a level stretch, you reach Pianelli, after which you enter a thick forest and descend to the bed of the Rovana di Campo river (approx. 1,200 m a.s.l.).

After crossing the river, you then climb back up to the top of Alpe Sfille (1,666 m a.s.l.), one of the few remaining mountain pastures still regularly grazed in the Campo valley. A splendid alpine setting, rich in mountain biodiversity. Follow the recently restored, well-signposted path that leads from Alpe Sfille up towards Passo della Cavegna before it drops down to the Onsernone valley. This mountain pass is, in fact, a level valley ending at Alpe Porcaresc (1,791 m a.s.l.). As you walk towards Rifugio Arena (1,687 m a.s.l.) your spirits will soar thanks to the extensive natural beauty here.

Attention: In the area of the Capanna Alpe d'Arena mountain hut, there are herds protected by livestock guardian dogs.