Escursione al Monte Cimiero

Description: From Piazza dell’Orologio (648 metres), we reach the churchyard that joins the Oratorio dei Disciplini with its famous fresco of the Danza Macabra then the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta.

From the churchyard, we continue left onto Via San Narno then take the steep little road (Via Quadrio, with a sign for the Fontanino della Mamma) that leads to a hairpin bend on Via Gennaro Sora. Continuing on for about a kilometre. After a small fountain (known as “Del Papà”, flowing with potable water), take the diversions to the right signposted as CAI 317 (Cima Blum Rif. Rino Olmo) then climb to Monte Cimiero (967 metres) following the path up to the crest. Here, turn right (signposted Monte Simer) where you can see the cross that will guide you to the summit.

The view from here is truly panoramic. From the cross at the summit, you can descend either by the same route or directly in the direction of the village (along a very sheer path). After about 100 metres of steep descent, the path becomes easier on the right and, after about 500 metres, we turn left at the crossroads (near a pylon). Continue on the main path until reaching Via Somvico, from which (keeping to the right) we return to Piazza dell’Orologio passing below the churchyard travelled earlier.

Interestingly, once we reach the summit of Monte Cimiero, with a cross dominating the entire plateau, we will have a panoramic view of the same, as far as the Alben and Grem mountains. It is also possible to start out from here to reach Presolana via Cima Blum and Parè, then the Bares ridges to reach Presolana.

Details:

• Starting point: Piazza dell’Orologio
• Difficulty: medium – hiking
• Difference in altitude: 350 metres
• Travel time: 1.30 hours