The warm September sun shines on the mountain slope, but the hot summer days have passed - ideal hiking weather above the valley floor. From Lana di Sopra, the Monte San Vigilio Cable Car, which was renovated a few years ago, takes us up to an altitude of 1,490 metres. The Monte San Vigilio, reaching 1,743 metres at its highest point, is a popular destination mountain and the crossing over the north-eastern foothills of the Gioveretto Group in the Ortles Alps.

Walking past the Vigilius Mountain Resort, we descend path no. 34 to Pavicolo. It is located about 300 metres lower, situated just above the road leading into the Val d'Ultimo. The mountain farms sit amidst meadows at the edge of the forest. This is where path no. 10 begins, which leads us further to San Pancrazio: The route runs through coniferous forests and past old farmhouses.

Several times, the path goes through small side valleys and hollows where mountain streams flow. The descent to San Pancrazio repeatedly crosses the paved road that connects Guggenberg and Alpreid with the Val d'Ultimo. San Pancrazio, located at an altitude of 735 metres, is characterised by mixed and deciduous forests, while fruit and chestnut trees grow in the meadows.

It took us four hours to reach the village - time for a break. After a quick stroll around the village and a stop for refreshments, we take the public bus back to Lana di Sopra (Oberlana).

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Author: AT

Experienced: September 2010
Last updated: 2026

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