A refreshing walk that develops along the course of the Vermigliana Stream from the charming Laghetti di San Leonardo to the characteristic Stavel farmhouses.
From the charming Laghetti di San Leonardo, where we recommend a stop to enjoy an outdoor picnic or a break in the shade, starts this simple walk that runs alongside the lively waters of the Vermigliana Stream. From the lakes, head toward the Stavel farmhouses, characteristic alpine farmhouses that during the summer months were used by farmers as haylofts and huts. For the return, turn left and return to Vermiglio along a comfortable dirt road. The route is stroller-accessible up to the Stavel farmhouses; after that, it is necessary to return along the outward itinerary or move onto the paved road "Via dela Prada" to the starting point.
Rules for mountain walks:
Starting from the Laghetti San Leonardo, where you can park your car, follow the dedicated signage bearing the identification number 15. A refreshing walk that, in the first stretch, winds along the Vermigliana Stream passing through Loc. Volpaia up to the vicinity of the Stavel farmhouses (you can reach this point with a stroller and return along the outward route or along the paved road "Via dela Prada" back to the starting point). Here the loop trail turns left, after the bridge over the Vermigliana Stream, to return towards Vermiglio along the dirt road which, for a very short stretch, climbs steeply before continuing downhill and then flat.
Alternatively, to complete the full loop, you can continue along the provincial road for about 300 meters, then cross it and take the short but steep path that develops inside a dense fir forest, until reaching the Ghiane farmhouses. From here, continue through a broadleaf forest and cross a suggestive suspension bridge to arrive at Vermiglio on Via di Dossi, to reach the Laghetti di San Leonardo again.
For those who prefer a peaceful and pleasant half-hour walk, it is also possible to simply walk around the small lakes: three charming artificial water basins, enhanced by the playful presence of ducklings. Here there are various picnic areas, a playground for the little ones, a bar-snack bar, a small football field, and various trail park equipment for Bike Trail enthusiasts. Thanks to the evening lighting, a romantic nighttime walk is possible.
You can reach the town of Vermiglio by the MALÉ - MEZZANA - FUCINE - VERMIGLIO - TONALE line bus (download the departure and return timetables).
Reach Vermiglio via the SS42 and from there follow the signs to the Cross-Country Ski Center.
Parking at the Laghetti di San Leonardo.
To face this walk, we recommend wearing hiking boots and a hat and carrying a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, and a water bottle in your backpack.
Don't forget your camera or mobile phone to capture the landscapes and views you like most. If you wish, you can share them on social media using #visitvaldisole.