Petzl The Tour of the Bernina

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Guidebook describing a 9-stage (119km) route around the Piz Bernina massif in the Alps on the Swiss-Italian border near St Moritz, and the 8-stage (94km) Alta Via Valmalenco exploring the Valmalenco valley, in the shadow of Monte Disgrazia. The Tour of the Bernina is suitable for first-time trekkers but the Alta Via needs some experience

Cicerone says

This guidebook explores two treks in the Bernina region of the Swiss-Italian Alps. The Tour of the Bernina is an 9-stage trek circling the Piz Bernina massif, 119km long and suitable for beginner trekkers. Also included in this guide is the 8-stage Alta Via Valmalenco just to the south of the Bernina. Although shorter, at 94km long, this is a more challenging route suitable for trekkers with more experience.

Whether skirting above St. Moritz and below snow-capped giants on the Tour of the Bernina, or climbing over wild, high passes and through isolated mountains in the Italian Valmalenco by Monte Disgrazia, the treks offer incredible experiences. Both feature spectacular peaks towering over snow fields and perfect alpine pastures, with accommodation in comfortable alpine guesthouses and high altitude huts.

This guide contains detailed route descriptions in combination with plenty of background and practical information.

Our Verdict

For nearly 50 years Cicerone have been producing guidebooks on recognised treks, regions, areas and general tips for hikers.

We have used them countless times and they’ve always provided excellent insight and knowledge that you only get through experience, giving you the edge to make your trip a success and more enjoyable too.

If you’re a gram counter you can easily remove sections of the book to take with you making your own ultra-lightweight guidebook with only the essential sections that you require.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• Seasons: Late June to late September
• Centres: In Switzerland: St Moritz, Sils Maria, Pontresina, Maloja, Bernina Pass, Poschiavo In Italy: Sondrio, Chiareggio, Chiesa in Valmalenco
• Difficulty: While no glacier crossings are involved on these treks, some basic alpine walking experience is recommended. Clear paths and old mule tracks are followed for the most part, along with routes over rough rocky terrain, and snow cover is to be expected early in the season.
• Must See: Awesome glaciers from Val Roseg, Rifugio Del Grande and Rifugio Marinelli in Valmalenco, and the Diavolezza belvedere. The Bernina Express train between Tirano and St Moritz experiences fantastic views and can be used to access the Bernina trek. Spectacular peaks en route include 4049m Piz Bernina, 3937m Piz Roseg, 3678m Monte Disgrazia, 3323m Pizzo Scalino.

Specifications

• Edition: First
• Number of pages: 176
• Size: 17.2 x 11.6 x 1.3cm
• Weighs 240g