This simple route runs entirely within the Stelvio National Park, passing by Italy’s most beautiful power plant, the Pont Hydroelectric Power Station. The trail then reaches the fascinating and characteristic farmsteads of the Peio Valley.
A simple walk that winds through the fascinating Peio Valley, entirely immersed in the Stelvio National Park. It starts from the lovely little Church of Pegaia, which, with its simple structure, stands alone in the green meadows along the road from Cogolo to Malga Mare. The route then continues past the historic hydroelectric power plant of Cogolo, which harnesses the powerful waters descending from the peaks of the Careser, and finally reaches the curious farmsteads of Fratta Plana and Guilnova.
Chiesetta di Pegaia
Photos: Azienda Turismo Val di Sole, APT Valli di Sole, Peio e Rabbi
Masi
Photos: Azienda Turismo Val di Sole, APT Valli di Sole, Peio e Rabbi
Hydroelectric Power Plant of Cogolo
Photos: Azienda Turismo Val di Sole, APT Valli di Sole, Peio e Rabbi
Interior of the Cogolo Hydroelectric Power Plant
Photos: Azienda Turismo Val di Sole, APT Valli di Sole, Peio e Rabbi
The accessibility of trails in mountain environments is closely linked to current conditions and therefore depends on natural events, environmental changes, and weather. Always gather detailed information about the route and its conditions before setting off. You can do this by contacting the nearest information office.
If you plan to reach an alpine hut or refuge, make sure it is open. If you want to eat or sleep there, call in advance to book.
Leave information about your planned route and always carry your phone with you.
In case of emergency, call 112.
Never leave rubbish at high altitude and, if possible, avoid leaving it at huts or alpine farms.
If you spot wild animals along the trail, stay on the path, do not get too close, avoid shouting, and keep your dog on a leash to prevent it from instinctively chasing and scaring them.
Starting point
Little Church of Pegaia – Cogolo di Peio
Directions
Starting from the parking lot located in the immediate vicinity of the ancient Church of Pegaia, a singular church with very simple and bare architecture, located along the road from Cogolo to Val de la Mare, you reach the namesake mountain hut (Malga). From here, the route continues until it reaches the historic Pont hydroelectric power plant. We recommend taking some time to visit this facility, built in the 1920s and fully reflecting the elegant and unique style of those years. The plant’s guide will tell you the story behind the operation of this power station, which for over a hundred years has been using the sparkling waters of the streams originating from the Careser Glacier, in the Ortles-Cevedale group, to transform them into electricity. From here, following the waters of the Noce River, you reach the characteristic farmsteads of Fratta Plana. The walk then returns to Pont, following the orographic left side of the Noce Bianco, until you arrive at the curious farmsteads of Guilnova.
Public transportation
You can reach the village of Cogolo di Peio with the Trentino Trasporti line bus MALÈ – MEZZANA – FUCINE – COGOLO – PEIO (download the outbound and return timetables).
From the bus stop, follow the provincial road until the sign on your right for Malga Mare, then continue on foot for about 20 minutes to the Church of Pegaia, the starting point of the route.
How to get there
Drive along the SS42 until you reach Ossana and at the junction turn right towards Val di Peio. Continue straight and follow the SP87 for about 5 km until you reach Cogolo di Peio. From there, follow the signs for Malga Mare, turn right and continue for about 1 kilometre until you reach the small Church of Pegaia.
Where to park
You can leave the car near the Church of Pegaia.
For this hike, we recommend wearing hiking boots and a hat, and bringing a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, and a water bottle in your backpack.
Don’t forget your camera or phone to capture the views and sceneries you like the most. If you feel like it, you can share them on social media using #visitvaldisole.
Booking