The Antonio Curò nature route is a wonderful hike across Italy’s eastern Bergmanesque Alps (also known as the Orobie Alps). Spanning 22 kilometres (13 mi), the walk connects the Rifugio Curò and the Vivione Pass, crossing spectacular passes such as Venano and Belviso. It often overlooks the ridge, offering wonderful views south over the Bergamo area and Valtellina in the north, which is dominated by the imposing Bernina and Disgrazia peaks.

The route is the brainchild of the Italian Alpine Club of Bergamo, which created the high-altitude route in 1984 to connect the Vivione Pass in the Scalve Valley and Rifugio Antonio Curò in the Barbellino Valley, in the upper Seriana Valley. It falls under the umbrella of the CAI (Club Alpino Italiano, Italian Alpine Club) and aims to protect the natural environments of the upper Val di Scalve, Val Bondione, Val Cerviera and upper Val Seriana. The Antonio Curò nature route has revived existing paths, forgotten over time.

The route is dedicated to the engineer Antonio Curò, one of the founders and first president of the Bergamo CAI section. He was a mountaineer and scientist who contributed significantly to the knowledge and study of the mountains. The route’s main objective is to promote knowledge and respect for the natural world of the Alps, and in particular the Bergmanesque Alps.

The route leads from the Rifugio Curò to Vivione Pass in two stages, with an overnight stay in Rifugio Nani Tagliaferri. You can also complete it in one day. Rifugio Curò isn’t accessible by car; you’ll need to walk around 7 kilometres (4 mi) and climb 1,000 metres (3,280 ft) to reach the town of Valbondione. The endpoint at the Vivione Pass is connected to the town of Schilpario.

If you have a car, take the A4 motorway towards Bergamo and then follow the signs for Valbondione. Alternatively, catch a bus or taxi from Bergamo train station to Valbondione. I recommend checking local bus timetables to make sure you have a direct connection, here (in Italian): bergamotrasporti.it.

The best time to tackle this itinerary is from May to September when temperatures are moderate and the flora is in full bloom. Before leaving, I recommend contacting the refuges to check they’re open. This route features some challenging climbs and exposed sections, with possible patches of snow until late in the season, but it offers breathtaking views as a reward. You need to be fit and to carry appropriate equipment with you. Wear layers, hiking boots, and take a lightweight rucksack with water, snacks, and trekking poles to tackle the more challenging sections.

The Antonio Curò nature route brings you close to nature, with every step revealing enchanting landscapes. Discover the magic of this route and immerse yourself in the majestic mountains.

I wish you a wonderful adventure!