Easy hikes and walks in Foresta Del Cansiglio

The Pian del Cansiglio is a vast plateau located in the Belluno Prealps at an altitude between 900 and 1,200 meters above sea level. It extends across the Veneto region (provinces of Belluno and Treviso) and Friuli-Venezia Giulia (province of Pordenone). Its famous and immense forest – composed mainly of beech and Norway spruce – is considered one of the largest and most fascinating in Italy, historically known as the "Bosco della Serenissima" because the Republic of Venice drew timber from it for the oars of its ships.

The Cimbri population, of Germanic origin, settled in the Venetian mountains as early as the Middle Ages, also reaching the Asiago Plateau. Between the late 18th and 19th centuries, some families moved from here to Cansiglio, attracted by the great availability of timber and the job opportunities offered by the forest. The Cimbri were indeed skilled woodcutters and artisans. Thus, several small settlements were born, including Vallorch, founded in 1850. It is today the best-preserved and reconstructed village, after having been destroyed during both the First and Second World Wars, and it preserves the characteristic wooden houses with typical Nordic architecture. https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vallorch

Passo della Crosetta, located at an altitude of 1,127 meters, is a strategic Alpine pass that connects the Treviso plain, in the municipality of Fregona, to the Cansiglio plateau and the province of Belluno. Nestled in a majestic setting of ancient woods, dominated by beech and fir trees, the pass represents a privileged gateway to one of the most fascinating natural areas in the Veneto region. A very popular destination in every season, it is a reference point for motorcyclists and cyclists who appreciate its scenic hairpin bends, but also an ideal starting point for hikers, ski mountaineers, and trekking enthusiasts heading towards Monte Pizzoc or the Cansiglio plain. At the pass, the presence of the historic refreshment area and rest stops allows for a regenerating break, combining the wild beauty of the mountains with the typical hospitality of the area.

Il Ristoro Crosetta, located at an altitude of 1,118 meters on the homonymous pass that connects the Treviso plain to the Cansiglio plateau, is a historic and unmissable stop for hikers, cyclists, and motorcyclists. This cozy stone and wood structure embodies the quintessence of mountain hospitality, offering a regenerating refuge in every season. The cuisine offers the authentic flavors of the Veneto-Belluno tradition, featuring game dishes, typical Cansiglio cheeses, warm polenta, and fresh mushrooms, all accompanied by homemade desserts and a good glass of local wine. Nestled in a centuries-old beech and fir forest, the establishment boasts a strategic position that makes it the ideal starting point or refreshment stop for exploring the numerous surrounding nature trails, offering an old-world atmosphere for relaxation and good food.

Malga Valmenera is a farm-holiday facility located on the edge of the Piano di Valmenera, one of the three depressions that make up the central part of the Cansiglio Plateau. It occupies part of the western slopes and is surrounded by 74 hectares of meadows used for grazing its own livestock. The malga is open on weekends between September and June, while it remains open every day during July and August. It offers catering services with specialties of the Cimbra cuisine (beef stew, Alpago lamb bake, spit-roasted meat, pastin and grilled cheeses) and products of its own production (cheeses and cured meats). There are also 16 beds available in 7 single or double rooms with private bathrooms. Completely rebuilt in 2017 and transformed into a modern structure, it is owned by Veneto Agricoltura.

Part of the itinerary towards Valmanera in winter.

A simple yet very pleasant route. A nearly pristine valley on the Cansiglio plain.

Beautiful itinerary suitable for everyone from the Crosetta Pass to Malga Coro.