Torrione d'Albiolo from the Austrian path

DESCRIPTION
An interesting historical journey through fortifications, barracks and trenches of the First World War.
We offer you an exciting mountain excursion, but keep in mind that this adventure is designed for expert hikers and requires a good dose of physical and technical preparation. It is a journey through time, to a place steeped in history, where the paths of the Tonale Pass and the surrounding mountains were the scene of intense fighting between the Italian and Austro-Hungarian armies during the Great War way back in 1915-18.
Among the fortified peaks tenaciously contested by both armies, the Torrione d'Albiolo stands out, majestic and impervious, which stands at almost 3000 meters above sea level. In August 1915, the Italian army managed to conquer this peak, but it was only a month later that the Austrians reconquered it, holding it firmly until the end of the conflict. Every step along this itinerary contains fascinating testimonies of the war events that indelibly marked this region.
As regards the difficulty of the route, it is important to underline that the sections to be tackled are classified with an EE level (expert hikers) for the section that goes from Monte Tonale Orientale to Passo dei Contrabbandieri. Along this stretch, you will find both the Path of the Austrians and the Path of the Alpines.
For the rest the difficulty is E (hiking).
This is a long and demanding itinerary, which will require your maximum commitment and dedication.
Although some sections are equipped, it is essential to underline that this does not mean the absence of particular technical difficulties. To ensure the safety of all participants, we strongly recommend the use of the via ferrata kit, especially for those who have no previous experience in routes of this complexity.
This adventure will allow you to experience unique emotions and immerse yourself in enchanting views, but it is essential to face it with the right preparation and awareness. If you are an expert hiker and have a good command of mountain techniques, this itinerary will give you an extraordinary and unforgettable experience, amidst the history and wild nature of the Tonale Pass mountains.

ITINERARY
From the S. Bartolomeo Hospice (1970 m) first take path 111 and then 161. You pass to the right of the artificial lake (2150 m) and arrive above the Dead City. Here at an altitude of 2574, you go up to the left and shortly after you reach the summit of Monte Tonale Orientale (2696 m). From here begins the Austrian Path which, crossing the ridges, leads to the Torrione d'Albiolo (2969 m). Now following the sign Sentiero degli alpini you arrive at the Passo dei Contrabbandieri (2681 m). For path no. 111 you go down to Malga Valbiolo (2244 m) and return to the starting point.

EXCURSION DATE
July 29, 2023

STARTING POINT
The San Bartolomeo Hospice in Passo del Tonale

REFRESHMENT POINT
Malga Valbiolo (2244 m)

AUTHOR’S SUGGESTIONS
Some sections not covered by a metal cord are very exposed, so it is not recommended for people who suffer from vertigo.

SAFETY TIPS
The viability of the proposed itinerary, like all mountain morphology, is subject to environmental changes due to natural events and weather conditions. So, before leaving, consult the competent tourist offices and / or the refuges of reference.
Our GPX tracks are only indicative, that is, the route was carried out at best with the conditions of the trails and weather of that day. So always evaluate what to do on site.
Also remember to evaluate the route based on your physical abilities, training and the equipment you have.
You should leave someone the route you intend to do told.
Remember that the emergency number is 112.

EQUIPMENT
It is recommended to have the appropriate equipment: technical mountain clothing, boots with vibram sole or similar, via ferrata set, harness, helmet, via ferrata gloves, goggles, sunscreen, backpack with drinks.

RECOMMENDED MAPS
Tabacco 052 Adamello - Presanella

INTERESTING LINKS
https://www.pontedilegnotonale.com/it/

HOW TO ARRIVE
From Cles - Val di Non - follow the SS43, then take the Val di Sole SS42 and continue up to Passo del Tonale. From the pass you turn right and go up to the San Bartolomeo Hospice.

PARKING AREA
At the San Bartolomeo al Tonale Hospice
GPS coordinates: 46.267491, 10.591572

Ospizio di San Bartolomeo

Si sale sul sentiero 111

Arrivati al laghetto artificiale

Si sale alla prima vetta

Iniziamo ad incontrare resti di trincee

Cima del Monte Tonale Orientale

Si percorre il Sentiero degli austriaci

Tratto attrezzato

Resti di baraccamenti austriaci

Salita alla cima del Torrione d'Albiolo

Torrione d'Albiolo

Inizia il Sentiero degli alpini

Tratto atrezzato del Sentiero degli alpini

Passo dei Contrabbandieri

Malga Valbiolo