Ring route of Segonzano

Ring route of Segonzano - Description

Directions

• Start

  Segonzano, car park piramidi
  
  From the car park underneath the earth pyramids of Segonzano, climb the steep, but well equipped path (excellent viewpoints) across these rather famous hoodoos (i.e. strangely shaped spires formed as a result of erosion in glaciofluvial areas). The path ultimately joins a forest road which runs fairly level about halfway along the Dosso di Segonzano (this section of the route follows a stretch of the European long-distance path E5). The road gently climbs to the peaceful hamlet of Quaràs, located in a cosy clearing about halfway up the mountain. At Quaràs, leave the E5 trail and climb along a road through the wood that heads for the dwellings of Segonzano. That road ultimately takes you to the 'Santuario della Madonna dell'Aiuto', where a pilgrimage church was built on the site of a wayside shrine (called 'capitèl' in the local dialect) in the late 17th century and was later modified to its current shape. A centuries-old linden tree adds shade and fragrance to what is a remarkably peaceful spot. On the first Sunday in September, a crowd of pilgrims gather here to worship the Madonna. Inside the church, there is a much-revered oil painting of the Madonna and Child by an unknown artist dating from the last quarter of the 17th century. The return route follows roads and paths across the hamlets of Sabion, Stedro, Saletto, and Piazzo, and includes views of the ruins of the Castle of Segonzano (13th century). This medieval fortress has recently been restored thanks to funds from the Municipality of Segonzano and the Autonomous Province of Trento and is currently used as a venue for major cultural events. The castle of Piazzo, which is owned by the family of the Baron a Prato from Segonzano, is the subject – as well as Valle di Cembra - of famous watercolours by the German painter Albrecht Dürer. In 1796, it was the site of a memorable battle between Habsburg and Napoleonic troops.

• end point

  Segonzano, car park piramidi

required equipment

Even on relatively short easy outings make sure to take all you need so you don't run into trouble if things take an unexpected turn, for example a storm blows up or you have a sudden drop in energy levels. What you should have in your rucksack: water canteen (1L) snacks (e.g. mixed dried fruit or chocolate) First aid kit windproof jacket fleece change of t-shirt and socks (in a plastic bag) make sure to wear or at least bring a pair of long trousers hat sun screen sunglasses gloves whistle to attract attention in an emergency emergency telephone number Mountain Rescue 112 Make sure you're wearing the right footwear for the trail and season. The going can get rough and rocky underfoot and a pair of hiking boots will protect you from sprains. And finally... don't forget to bring your camera! You'll need it to capture the stunning views.

Difficulty

• Difficulty

  Easy

• Fitness

• Technique

• Experience

• Landscape

Directions

self-arranged arrival
By car: From south or north, on the A22 Brennero motorway, leave the motorway at the Trento Nord exit (22.5 km from the toll gate), continue northwards on the Main Brennero Road SS12 until the turn-off for Lavis, then take the Lavis - Castello di Fiemme Main Road SS612 which will take you to the Cembra Valley.
Car park underneath the earth pyramids of Segonzano