Magical Val di Fassa: The Lagusel ski-mountaineering loop

The landscape along this route is wonderfully varied, shifting from shaded, dense woods to open valleys with breathtaking views of towering mountain faces.

Monzoni is a side valley of the better-known and more touristy San Nicolò Valley, yet it has retained the pristine charm and timeless atmosphere of a bygone era, with its vast high-altitude open spaces. Its pastures, dotted with tiny huts, are home to summer grazing, while the valley itself is renowned for its rare resonant fir trees, whose exceptional wood is used to craft violins imbued with magical sound. The volcanic and eruptive nature of the surrounding peaks has preserved a unique botanical and geological heritage. This is a valley of ancient firs and wild, untouched lands, where nature remains unspoiled by human intervention.

On your way, once Forcella Dal Pieif is behind you, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the bustling Valley of San Nicolò and the picturesque Lake Lagusel. This enchanting basin, with its small green lake, stunning summer pastures, and pristine woods, is a hidden gem of extraordinary beauty.

The enchanting Valley of San Nicolò, stretching from Pozza di Fassa to the Marmolada Group, boasts a rich history dating back to the Great War, with remnants still clearly visible today.

Arrive at Baita Ciampié for lunch, a charming and welcoming rifugio where you can savour delicious local cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. After this break, you’ll begin the descent back to your starting point.

This loop is relatively simple, scenic, generally free from avalanche risks, and well-traveled by hikers—making it the perfect recipe for an unforgettable day!