Novate Mezzola - Codera - Bresciadega

Route description

1. 

   Novate Mezzola · 327 m · Bresciadega 3 h 30 min

   From the car park to the mule track

   From the paid car park in Novate Mezzola, reach the start of the historic Val Codera mule track and follow the signs for Bresciadega. Allow about 3 h 30 min at a steady hiking pace; well-trained hikers walking without breaks may complete the ascent in under 3 hours. The route immediately gains height on stone steps, initially shaded by mixed chestnut woodland.

2. 

   First junction · Codera 1 h 15 min

   The panoramic stone staircase

   At the first junction, follow the sign for Codera. Here the woodland meets the granite wall and the stone staircase climbs steeply in the sun, with beautiful views over Valchiavenna and Lake Mezzola. At the wayside shrine, take one last look at the valley floor before entering Val Codera. The route continues through short ups and downs and brief tunnels towards Avedee and then Codera.

3. 

   About 3 km covered · Bresciadega 1 h 30 min

   A break in Codera

   Codera is lively throughout the year and offers hikers water and refreshments at La Locanda and Osteria Alpina. Beyond the village, the signboard points towards the destination: Rifugio Bresciadega is about 1 h 30 min away. By this point, just over 3 km have been covered—more than one third of the total distance—and much of the initial climb, about 680 m.

4. 

   From Codera towards Saline

   Following the Scout signs

   Beyond Codera, the path becomes a gravel vehicle track and the gradient eases. Along the section to Saline, signs placed by Scouts who visit the valley mark the pedestrian route, helping walkers avoid some unnecessary ups and downs on the track used by motor vehicles belonging to residents of upper Val Codera.

5. 

   Saline · Bresciadega 45 min

   Saline and the changing woodland

   At Saline, about 45 min remain. Soon afterwards, cross a bridge to the orographic left side of Val Codera, where broad-leaved woodland begins to give way to conifers. The scent of pine needles is a sign that the destination is now close.

6. 

   Stoppadura · Bresciadega 10 min

   Arrival at Rifugio Bresciadega

   At Stoppadura, the last settlement before the destination, there is one final fountain and about 10 min remain. Shortly afterwards, pass through a gate—close it carefully so the cows cannot get out—and enter the Bresciadega basin. A few more steps lead to the long-awaited hut: knock, ask for Marisa and finally enjoy a rest and a refreshing drink.

Detailed information

Difficulty

E hiking route. A long, sustained approach on historic mule track, stone steps and valley path requiring fitness, secure footing and hiking footwear.

Distance

7.54 km one way.

Elevations

Start at 327 m; recorded maximum 1,215 m; finish at Rifugio Bresciadega at 1,214 m.

Ascent/descent

Cumulative ascent approximately 1,178 m; descent approximately 292 m; elevation difference between start and finish +886 m.

Estimated time

4 hours including breaks.

Coordinates

Start: 46.221353, 9.460401. Finish: 46.262772, 9.510722.

Waypoints

Novate Mezzola / Mezzolpiano - Avedee - Codera - Corte - Tiune - Gando - Beleniga - Saline - Piazzo - Stoppadura - Rifugio Bresciadega.

Additional information

The route climbs Val Codera from the valley floor to Bresciadega over paved sections, stone steps and mountain path. Lower slopes are sunny with Lake Mezzola views; higher up, the path crosses villages, woods, meadows and pastures. Start early in warm weather and carry water between settlements.