Following the trenches on Monte Generoso

Our third route, which takes 4.5 hours on foot, gives us the chance to explore some First World War-era fortifications by following the trench line through the Monte Generoso Forest.

We are in the Municipality of Pellio Intelvi, in the Province of Como on the border with Switzerland: here Monte Generoso (1701m), as the highest peak in the valley, played a crucially important role in the defence of Italy during the First World War, more specifically, the area under the control of the Northern Frontier Advanced Occupation Command, Responsible for the construction of these defensive line.

As well as providing excellent views over Lakes Como and Lugano, today the fortifications and trenches built during the war offer a glimpse of life on the frontline: starting from Dogana di Valmara, which can be reached by going through San Fedele Intelvi, Pellio Inferiore and Pellio Superiore and the village of Pian delle Noci, our walk reveals 12 levels of trenches.

First traversing the Sasso Bové, the route passes by military base at Le Baracche before reaching the Command Post (trench no. 8), the largest and most important trench along the entire route. Leaving Barco dei Montoni, you can descend down the trail to Alpe Gotta (1250 m), head to the Foo di Bait spring and, crossing the Foo di Pàrol, you will get back to Valmara.