The Altopiano della Paganella boasts an extensive network of itineraries, among the most comprehensive in the Alps. Cima Paganella delights visitors with a truly remarkable. Indeed, the vast 360° view includes all the north-eastern mountain massifs and allows a stunning view of the entire Brenta Dolomites Group and Lake Garda.

From the car park of Santel, a village in the municipality of Fai della Paganella, we take path no. 602. The path runs amidst a dense fir wood, then climbs to Dosso della Rocca, where we take the trail branching off to the left. The latter winds across a flatter area with pastures before passing Malga di Fai and entering the wood. At this point we take the steep path on the right towards Rifugio Dosso Larici on the right, which continues among mountain pines. It then branches off left, merges with a ski slope, and soon reaches the cima Paganella. Just 10 minutes from the peak is rifugio La Roda, where we take a rest after a three-hour ascent.

The descent proceeds along the western slope, offering views of the impressive Brenta Dolomites. We follow the long path with signposts first for Malga Zambana first and then for Parcheggio Santel (the car park).

Author: Giacomo Roccabruna