Bättelmatthorn

An alpine hike to a peak with stunning views.

The route starts in Ossasco in Val Bedretto, from where you can climb to the Passo della Novena on foot or by bus. From the pass, descend to the first hairpin turn on the right and take the road toward Lake Gries. After passing the windmills, turn left along the lake until you reach the Passo del Gries, from where you’ll cycle mostly to the junction for the Città di Busto Mountain Hut. If you want to avoid the hike to the summit, continue straight ahead; otherwise, climb to the top. At a certain point, the slope becomes very steep and rocky, so it’s best to leave your bike and walk the last 100 meters to the summit. The views are fantastic, but remember to bring good hiking boots because the area is very exposed.

Back on your bike, you’ll ride over (small) scree slopes until you reach the fork leading to the refuge again. Here you’ll encounter a few meters secured with a chain, but it’s not a big deal if you’re used to mountain biking. After the landslides, the trail becomes rideable again. You’ll reach a point just before the mountain hut and turn left to cross the trail that descends into the valley toward Bättelmatt. It’s scenic and not difficult.

More challenging, though not too much so, is the route from Bättelmatt to Lake Morasco, which includes a few technical sections. Take a lunch break in Riale, then climb up a dirt road to the San Giacomo Pass, where you’ll rejoin the trail to Ossasco, featuring some ascents and descents that aren’t always rideable.