Between Venetian sawmills and charming farmhouses, accompanied by the happy sound of the stream’s water, this circular route takes us to admire some of the most fascinating places in the Stelvio National Park, both from a naturalistic point of view and for the preservation of traditions. Venetian Sawmill “dei Bègoi”: this ancient building, dating back to the 18th century and restored by the Stelvio National Park, is a testimony to hydraulic technology used until the arrival of electric power. It can be visited and it is also still possible to witness its operation. The Còler plain (alt. 1380 m): enchanting locality characterized by the presence of charming farmhouses, with characteristic “scandole” roofs and some built with the block-bau technique, where the outer walls are made with interlocking logs.
The information contained in this sheet is subject to inevitable changes, so no indication has absolute value. It is not possible to completely avoid inaccuracies or imprecisions, considering the rapidity of environmental or meteorological changes that may occur. In this sense, we disclaim all responsibility for any changes experienced by the user. It is recommended, however, to check the state of the places and environmental or weather conditions before undertaking a hike.
10 tips for your hikes:
1) prepare your itinerary
2) choose a route suitable for your fitness level
3) choose appropriate equipment and gear
4) consult the snow and weather bulletins
5) starting alone is more risky
6) leave information about your itinerary and approximate return time
7) do not hesitate to rely on a professional
8) pay attention to signs and trail markings
9) do not hesitate to turn back
10) in case of accident, raise the alarm by calling the short number 112
From the parking lot at Plan (alt. 1252 m), continue on foot along the road towards “Segheria Veneziana”. Crossing the second bridge on the left, you reach the Venetian Sawmill “dei Bègoi”. Near the bridge, the new path begins, following the rushing Rabbiés stream on the right bank, leading to the locality “Ramoni al Còler” (note, the first section of the path may not be marked on less updated maps). You reach the Còler plain (alt. 1380 m) with its charming farmhouses and the educational play area “Il gioco del Parco”. The route then continues by taking the path on the left, following signs for “Malghe Fratte”. The path climbs through the spruce forest until reaching Malga Fratte Bassa (alt. 1482 m): from the pasture in front of the hut you can enjoy a view of most of Val di Rabbi. From here, descend along the forest road (with the option to shorten the route by taking paths that cut across the hairpin turns or by taking the path to the Suspension Bridge over the Ragaiolo waterfall), and once you reach the Ragaiolo stream, take the lane on the left towards “Segheria” for 100 m, then take the small path on the right which will lead back to the road 300 m from the parking lot. Alternatively, under the cross opposite Malga Fratte Bassa, a quick path starts which leads back to the Venetian Sawmill dei Bègoi. The return route is the same as the outward journey.
From Trento: Trento-Malè Railway
From Malè: bus line B640
Stop: Somrabbi
For more information:
Trentino Trasporti S.p.A.
Route located in the municipality of Rabbi: it starts from the parking lot at Plan. You reach it from Malé by following the valley road of Val di Rabbi and then, after one kilometer from the village of San Bernardo, heading towards Rabbi Fonti to reach the parking lot at Plan.
In summer, you can leave your car at Rabbi Fonti and reach Plan with the sustainable mobility service Stelviobus.
Appropriate clothing and equipment for alpine hiking are recommended, in particular:
· mountain boots
· trekking poles
· waterproof windbreaker jacket