Mergozzo

we=129:2-on the way

Lake Mergozzo

Today a little hike around LAGO DI MERGOZZO.

The town of Mergozzo can be reached by train, but it only runs a few times a day. So I took the car for about 10 kilometers. The lake lies just behind Lake Maggiore; But it is not nearly as well-known and overcrowded for tourists.

There were two very detailed descriptions of the circular walk; one in paper form and one digitally via KOMOOT. Both already created at home. The starting point was the ancient elm tree right by the lake. She was impressive. So many holes in a tree and of this size shows a strong will to survive.

We started straight away on the SENTIERO AZZURO – the blue path. We followed this signpost in the form of a blue line on stones and trees up and down the hill. Even though KOMOOT describes it as an easy to medium tour, it is still quite demanding. Sure-footedness is urgently required, as are good shoes. It's not just tree and bamboo roots that need to be overcome; Stones of every size and granite slabs alternate; There were also lots of watercourses where the stepping stones were also under water in some places.

At the end of the lake there is a golf course and a large campsite; We had to walk along the first square and cross the second square. It was still possible because it was being cleaned up there. If the place is closed, there will be no possibility of getting there.

Following the road for a bit it went uphill again. I have no idea what percentage of incline and how many meters in altitude we climbed again. When we were finally supposed to go down into the valley, the hiking trail was closed.

So we climbed higher and walked through streams. Then KOMOOT was able to show us the right direction. So we had managed significantly more than the specified eight kilometers when we finally arrived in MERGOZZO. After around 14 kilometers we more than deserved a delicious focaccia and an espresso.

Freshened up in the hotel, changed shoes and went back to town to look out for the bus that will take us to INTRA or STRESA tomorrow. Tickets for the bus can now be purchased at BAR CENTRALE; The prices are very pleasant (2 adults round trip) less than €7. We know from experience that there are few public parking spaces available on market day. A bus trip is definitely the better choice.

There are still a lot of people of all ages out and about at the lake - we are in Italy and the temperatures are pleasant. The sun slowly disappears behind the mountains near STRESA and we make our way to VILLA QUERCIA.

The park does have illuminated paths, but the switch must also be turned on. Even if we know where it is, I would prefer to arrive at the last light of the day. It can get dark on the balcony with a lake view.

See you then.