Sentiero Grandi Alberi: The “Trail of big trees” Hike Near Vicenza, Italy
If you are looking for a hike near Vicenza that offers stunning views, look no further than Sentiero Grandi Alberi! This hike will leave you in awe in any season and it’s a bit milder than the Strada Delle 52 Galleries.
I first discovered this hike after scouring Google Maps for nearby hikes that offered the following
- Beautiful Meadows
- Not a lot of altitude gain
- Close to Vicenza
Those were my three requirements and I met all three of them.
Read on to learn more about the Sentiero Grandi Alberi and my fall hike!
Where is the Sentiero Grandi Alberi located?
Sentiero Grandi Alberi, or ” Great Trees Trail,” is located in Recoaro Terme, right in the heart of the Vicenza Prealps. Sentiero Grandi Alberi and Recoaro Terme are situated on the alto piano delle Montagnole, and this is probably one of the most beautiful excursions you can do here.
The mountains in this area are called the Piccole Dolomiti or (small Dolomites in English). They are a mountain range southeast of Trentino and much lower in elevation than the Dolomites.
The Piccolo Dolomites are above the town of Schio and consist of Pasubio, Craega, Cornetto, and Cinque Croce. The peaks are just about 200 meters high, and this area was involved in some of the most intense fighting during WWI.
What are some of the features of the Sentiero Grandi Alberi
The Sentiero Grandi Alberi, or “The Path of Big Trees,” is a single road, so you’d classify this as an out-and-back type of walk/hike.
As you embark on this journey, you’ll be sharing the road with local residents, so be mindful of this. Along the way, you’ll be hiking through centuries-old meadows lined with some very old trees. During the fall, the trees are bursting with color, and it’s as if you’ve stepped into another world.
There are fir and birch trees that are turning vibrant colors, and in my experience, the fall weather made this hike the perfect way to get into the fall spirit. Moreover, the best part about this hike is that you’ll find information boards that assist with your experience, where you can learn about various flora and fauna.
The trail takes about 4-6 hours in duration, and the CAI classifies the Sentiero Grandi Alberi as medium difficulty. In total, it’s about 14 kilometers to Rifugio Cesare Battisti.
Additionally, Sentiero Grandi Alberi is dog-friendly, but they have postings everywhere that say to keep your dogs leashed, as there are cows that roam through the pastures and it is private land in some areas.
Furthermore, the trail is not stroller-friendly, so I would advise against bringing one with you. It’s rocky, and at times very uneven. Therefore, I would recommend wearing small children, but only you can know what’s right for you!
How do I get to the trailhead?
Whether you’re traveling from nearby cities or further afield, getting to this enchanting trail is straightforward.
Below, you’ll find detailed directions from key locations, including Vicenza, Venice, Verona, Innsbruck, and Milan, to help you plan your journey with ease.
From Vicenza
- By Car:
- Head north on SS248 toward Costabissara.
- Continue on SS248 for about 20 km until you reach the entrance to Sentiero Grandi Alberi.
From Venice
- By Car:
- Take the A4 motorway toward Verona.
- Exit at Montebello Vicentino and follow SS248 north.
- Continue for about 40 km until you reach the trailhead.
From Verona
- By Car:
- Take the A4 motorway toward Vicenza.
- Exit at Montebello Vicentino and follow SS248 north for about 25 km
From Innsbruck
- By Car:
- Head south on A12 toward Italy.
- Follow signs to A22 and continue toward Bolzano.
- Take the A22 to the A4 toward Vicenza, then follow SS248 north.
From Milan
- By Car:
- Take the A4 motorway toward Venice.
- Exit at Montebello Vicentino and follow SS248 north for approximately 160 km
Best Season For This Hike
The ideal times to hike Sentiero Grandi Alberi are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its most vibrant.
In spring, typically from April to June, the Sentiero Grandi Alberi comes alive with blooming wildflowers and lush greenery, making for a picturesque backdrop. Additionally, autumn, from September to November, offers stunning fall foliage, painting the landscape in warm hues of orange, red, and gold.
These seasons not only provide pleasant temperatures for hiking but also allow you to experience the trail’s natural beauty in full bloom or breathtaking transformation. On the other hand, summer can be hot and crowded, while winter may bring snow, limiting access to the trail.
Therefore, for the best hiking experience, aim for the transitional months of spring and autumn. Interestingly, I met a local out on the trail, Manola, who told me that she loves coming here during the winter time for cross-country skiing. So, it is feasible to do so, but keep in mind these are locals saying this, and they know this area better than anyone else.
My Autumn Experience on the Sentiero Grandi Alberi
We’ve had a rainy season here in northern Italy and it has been hard to get out and experience all the Vicenza area has to offer. With a break in the weather, I decided I would pick a hike close to our house. I settled on Sentiero Grandi Alberi.
I packed up my trusty bag and got ready to head out the door. As I made my way to Recoaro Terme, the landscape changed before my eyes. I have been in this area because the Strada Delle 52 Galleries is close by but I had never gone this far to Recoaro Terme.
Recoaro Terme
Recoaro Terme is a charming town renowned for its therapeutic hot springs and stunning natural scenery. With a history dating back to Roman times, the town has long been celebrated for its mineral-rich waters, which have drawn visitors seeking relaxation and healing for centuries. The thermal baths, established in the 19th century, have since attracted tourists from all over, enhancing Recoaro’s reputation as a wellness destination.
My car snuck up the side of the mountain, and into Recoaro Terme. This area is a popular ski and sledding destination in winter time and the road winds through the mountainside, so if you get spooked easily by cliffside driving, this is good to know.
The town is a must-visit, but more on that later.
The fall foliage started to peak as I drove past Bar Castiglieri and the road became even more narrower. I thought, “How can the road get smaller?” I started to get a little worried but I kept on driving. I finally made it to Trattoria La Gabiola the starting point of the trail.
Asnicar Village
Just a stone’s throw from Sentiero Grandi Alberi’s starting point, Asnicar Village is a delightful and serene destination that captures the essence of rural Italian charm. This quaint village is characterized by its rustic architecture, narrow winding streets, and friendly local atmosphere.
Asnicar offers visitors a glimpse into traditional life in the Veneto region, with picturesque homes adorned with vibrant flowers and stunning views of the surrounding hills.
The Trail
Trail Name: Sentiero Grandi Albero
Distance: Approximately 10 km (round trip)
Duration: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: GOOGLE MAPS “INIZIO SENTIERO GRANDI ALBERI”
Trail Description:
The adventure begins at the trailhead at the base of Monte Mesole. As I started my hike, the path gradually flattened out, and the breathtaking views of the Piccole Dolomiti unfolded before me, stretching from Monte Mesole to the Carega Group. The fresh mountain air and the sounds of nature accompany me as I traverse through lush pastures. Some so many waterfalls and streams bubbling.
About a kilometer in, I come across Malga Podeme. Just before reaching it, I take a moment to admire the “due fratelli,” two majestic centuries-old beech trees standing proudly on my left. Their grandeur is a perfect photo opportunity!
After passing the Malga, I look to my right and notice a trail, I decide to take the path and I get my first glimpse of the stunning Sea del Risso (or Creme) lake. Its shimmering surface peeking through the trees. I spent about 15 minutes taking pictures of this area. It was so magical with the fog, fall colors, and the bright teal hue.
The trail continues as a pleasant dirt road, with gentle ups and downs, leading me through shaded woodlands and sunlit pastures.
Path 120
As I pass the pastures of Malga Raute, Malga Pace, and Malga Rove Alta, the scenery shifts, showcasing the vibrant flora and fauna of the region. Just after the last hut, the path ascends for awhile, guiding me to the fork for the Passo Ristele trail. Here, I stick to path 120, ensuring I’m on the right track.
From this point, the trail levels out completely. On my right, I notice remnants of war trenches, a poignant reminder of history, while on my left, the impressive Vaji descending from Monte Zevola comes into view. The notable Vajo Fratta Grande, Fratta Piccola, and Vajo dell’Acqua capture my attention, their beauty adding to the stunning landscape.
After soaking in the views, I finally arrive at Gazza, my spirits high. The trail leads me to the Cesare Battisti Refuge at 1260m, a perfect spot to relax, enjoy a warm meal, and reflect on the day’s journey.
Highlights
- Stunning views of the Piccole Dolomiti
- Ancient beech trees (“due fratelli”)
- Sea del Risso (or Creme) lake
- Historical war trenches
- Scenic pastures and woodlands
Tips
I usually bring my 38L Osprey Kyte bag that can hold all sorts of items. In this case, you are going to want to bring your camera and yes you can even use your drone at Sentiero Grandi Alberi. Be mindful of the animals and the people who live in this beautiful area.
- Check the weather before heading out.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Refillable water bottles are amazing, practice sustainability with me!
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes.
- Don’t forget your camera for the breathtaking views!
- Hiking Poles as there are some sections where these do come in handy
- Layers during spring and autumn hikes as it gets chilly
Where to Park
- Parking for Sentiero Grandi Alberi is searchable on Google Maps by typing in “INIZIO SENTERIO GRANDI ALBERI”
- Ristorante Trattoria La Gabiola is a reference point many people use to get to the trailhead. As of October 23rd, 2024, the parking lot was reserved for patrons of the restaurant. There is a small parking area past the Trattoria on your right if you can’t get parking at the trailhead.
- I did not have to pay anything to park.
Conclusion
Let me know if this guide helped you out and if you have any questions, please reach out to me! Feel free to check out my Instagram where I posted a reel that previews Sentiero Grandi Alberi!
The pictures! WOW!