4.5
(141)
724
hikers
From Carona to Rifugio Calvi and Lago di Fregabolgia
06:24
17.6km
830m
Hiking
Embark on a difficult hike from Carona to Rifugio Calvi and Lago di Fregabolgia, covering 10.9 miles (17.6 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2730 feet (832 metres). This challenging route, typically taking 6 hours and 23 minutes, begins on a paved road that soon becomes a dirt track, leading you through a forest to the ancient stone village of Pagliari. You will pass the scenic Val Sambuzza waterfall before the woods thin out, revealing open alpine landscapes. The trail then climbs steeply past Lago del Prato to the artificial Lago di Fregabolgia, where you can admire its impressive 60-meter-high dam before reaching Rifugio Calvi, nestled between two lakes with views of peaks like Pizzo del Diavolo.
This hike requires good fitness and sturdy shoes, as some sections have marked inclines, particularly before Lago di Fregabolgia. While there are no technically difficult or exposed parts, the overall difficulty rating means you should be prepared for a strenuous day. Trail conditions can vary with the season; always check for updates, especially after heavy snowfall, as alternative routes like the 'sentiero estivo' (summer path) might be available. Plan to start early to complete the full circuit comfortably.
This trail offers a rewarding journey through the Upper Brembana Valley, showcasing diverse terrain and stunning alpine scenery within the Parco delle Orobie. You will experience a glimpse into the past at the historic Pagliari village, marvel at the engineering of the artificial lakes and dams integral to hydroelectric power, and enjoy the welcoming stop at Rifugio Calvi. The rifugio, named after the four Calvi brothers, provides a base for further exploration of the Bergamo Alps and offers traditional cuisine, making it a notable feature of this remarkable route.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
707 m
Pagliari Village
Highlight • Settlement
A visit to Pagliari is a must, in all seasons. In winter the snow envelops Pagliari in a magical atmosphere, while in summer the village is surrounded by a gentler and more varied environment, where the green tongues of pastures and meadows penetrate the narrow streets and alleys.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
1.52 km
Sambuzza Valley Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
4.25 km
Prato Lake
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
10.2 km
Fratelli Calvi Hut
Highlight • Mountain Hut
The refuge offers a bar and restaurant service with typical local products. You can reach Calvi along a route that starts from Carona and takes from 2 to 3 hours depending on your level of training.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
11.3 km
Lake Fregabolgia
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
17.6 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
9.41 km
6.98 km
1.12 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
8.11 km
4.55 km
2.56 km
1.19 km
1.16 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Wednesday 20 May
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Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
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Trail Reviews
Rain is expected in the afternoon and I go to Calvi for the convenience of returning to the road which is feasible with an umbrella
A classic of Bergamo excursions, about which I have little to write. Went via the summer trail, but would advise against it for at least the next two weeks. In the final stretch, you must proceed with caution. The mountain has unloaded a lot of snow onto the path from the various gullies and therefore, even if not dangerous, we proceed slowly and with caution. The real height difference, taking the summer path, is over 1100 meters due to the continuous ups and downs. Polar calculates it, while Kommot doesn't. In the evening spot the usual marmots, chamois and a couple of foxes. Never seen so many foxes like this time. Sadly no deer, apart from the usual abundant footprints.
27 years after a memorable tour made in my youth, in which we climbed Mount Grabiasca, Mount Madonnino and Pizzo del Fargno, covered in snow in May, I returned to the Calvi Refuge. It remains a great place, with a remarkable mountain panorama. Ascent along the carriage road, descent along the summer path 247. Read everything on waterwind.it
Such a special adventure deserves to be told. This video isn't just a breathtaking preview of the route, but also a testament to a beautiful day of sharing and strength. You can find it on YouTube at this link: https://youtu.be/k_xGMPyJXkU
In case of snow it is preferable to stay on path 210 as the final part of 208 is poorly signposted.
Strava altitude difference 1103m. We start from Carona and through the summer path at times frosted and icy we reach the Zelto lakes both....frozen then going up a scree we reach the Cabianca lake also frozen and here the first one reaches us ☀️, avoiding the very crowded refuge we reach the Rotondo lake and from there the Armentarga hut, touching the Cava Sabbia lake and the Prato lake we return to Carona. Nice ride on a beautiful day. Cheers
Good morning everyone. A lovely hike on Sunday, starting from the summer trail in Carona. It's beautiful because the entire landscape is so different from the dirt and concrete road. The return journey, however, was along the dirt road. We reached Lake Ca' Bianca, and in the middle, a delicious polenta taragna with venison morsels at the Calvi Refuge—a must-try.
From carona to the calvi refuge passing through the summer path, if you want to follow it in this period you need at least crampons to cross the snow-covered and icy sections, there are some sections where you have to pay attention, who does not like to take the concrete road as in mine chance and a good alternative the best part in my opinion is the basin at the end of the wood where silence is absolute if you want to lengthen the ring tour you can cross the dam and follow the trail