Tonale Pass Fort Mero and Fort Zaccarana

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Tonale Pass Fort Mero and Fort Zaccarana

Category

Difficulty

Moderate

Activity time

3:30

Durata in ore

Distance

9.1

Distance in km

Download GPX

Historical excursion to the Mero and Zaccarana forts, former Austro-Hungarian fortifications from World War I at the Tonale Pass.

This excursion starts from the historic Ospizio San Bartolomeo, at nearly 2,000 meters above sea level. The first fort encountered is Forte Mero. From here, the path begins to ascend, and after a 250-meter elevation gain, you reach Forte Zaccarana. A viewpoint of rare beauty, from the fort you can admire impressive peaks such as Busazza, the majestic Presanella scenery, the ridges of Monticelli, the wide saddle of Tonale, and the upper Val di Sole.

The interior of Forte Zaccarana is partially open to visitors (only with guided tours). The walk concludes with a very scenic trail, rich in high mountain flora.

Photos: Azienda Turismo Val di Sole, APT Valli di Sole, Peio e Rabbi

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Route info

Moderate

Distance

9.1 km

Activity time

3:30 h.

Uphill Elevation

250 m

Downhill elevation

250 m

Physical effort

Scenary

Highest point

2076 m

Lowest point

1839 m

Height difference

237 m

Copyright

APT Valli di Sole, Peio e Rabbi

Suggestions

Points of interest: Forte Mero, Strino Barracks, Ospizio San Bartolomeo, Forte Zaccarana.

Safety information

Rules for mountain hikes:

The accessibility of mountain trails is closely tied to current conditions and therefore depends on natural phenomena, environmental changes, and weather conditions. For this reason, make sure to thoroughly research the trail and its conditions before setting off. You can do this by contacting the nearest Information Office.
If you plan to reach an alpine dairy farm, or a mountain hut, ensure they are open, and if you intend to stop for food or accommodation, call in advance to make a reservation.
Tell someone about your trip and always carry your mobile phone with you.
In case of an accident, call 112.
Never leave litter at high altitudes, and if possible, avoid leaving it at the mountain huts or at the alpine dairy farms.
If you spot wildlife along the way, we urge you to stay on the trail, avoid getting too close, don't shout, and keep your dog on a leash to prevent it from instinctively chasing and frightening the animals.

Starting point

Parking is available at the historic San Bartolomeo Hospice at the Tonale Pass

Directions

From the starting point, continue east along the dirt road that traverses the scenic Tonale plateau until reaching Forte Mero. From there, proceed towards the Strino Barracks, where the road begins to ascend until reaching Forte Zaccarana (2,096 m). From here, return to the starting point via a comfortable SAT 160 trail, then resume along the dirt road.

Public transportation

You can reach Val di Sole by taking the TRENTO - MALÈ - MEZZANA train (download the departure and return schedules) to Malè.

From Malè, you can take a bus to Tonale (download the departure and return schedules).

Then, ascend from the Valbiolo cable car parking area towards Ospizio San Bartolomeo.

How to get there

Follow the SS43 until Mostizzolo. Then, take the SS42 towards Passo del Tonale.

Where to park

Parking available at the San Bartolomeo Hospice.

To tackle 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 a camera or your phone to capture the landscapes and views you like the most. If you'd like, you can share them on social media using #visitvaldisole.