From Donadivo to Lavorerio Alp

From Gordona, more trained hikers can already start walking to the alp.

Alternatively, one can drive to the village of Donadivo (737 m). From here on foot in three hours you will reach your destination.

A third opportunity is provided by the Orlo alp (1165 m) reachable by car, gaining about an hour’s walk, at the expense, however, of losing the pleasure of walking along the jewel of a mule track, along the “Benefactor’s Path,” which passes through a beautiful beech forest and leads to the alp.

Among meadows, stones, rhododendrons and in the larch forest you look at the summit. Through large pastures following the markers you reach a small bridge and a little further on, past some rocky crags, the Lavorerio house/shelter (1862 m).

The building is divided into two parts: the southern one is used for agricultural activities, while the northern side is used as a dwelling/shelter with the purpose of promoting and enhancing the Lavorerio alp and the whole valley. Today this building is made available to organizations and associations, interested in spending a vacation stay here, fully enjoying the magnificent landscapes.From the refuge there is a regenerating view of the entire valley. Clearly visible to the east are the glades of Cermine and Orlo and in the background Pizzo di Prata, the peaks of Masino, Codera and Engadine.

The refuge is not managed. It is therefore necessary to pick up the keys and purchase a transit permit at the San Martino bar in Gordona or online by clicking here

The rest of the alp is surrounded by impressive crags at first grassy, then rocky to the northwest. Magnificent are the granite slabs to the south.

It should be considered that beyond the hut, the trail is less obvious and the markings are much rarer, so it is necessary to be equipped with a map and adequate orientation skills.