The route begins in Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, 222 mt. a.s.l., the main centre of the valley, easily reachable by public transportation. From Mulino della Grignetola, on provincial road of Arni, the old mule track climbs into the woods to Grancia and the small characteristic church of La Madonna della Neve, and further on the hamlet of Sassi. Its strategic  position is seen by the tall bell tower built over the valley of Arni.

From Sassi, in short, you reach Eglio to take the narrow farm road that climbs to Foce di Eglio. A few kilometers of paved road lead us to the Grottorotondo intersection where the main road continues for 4 km up to Piglionico, and represents the shortest way to reach the starting point of the path for the mountain hut Rossi , saving at least an hour.

The GT sign instead indicates the path that descends to Alpe di S. Antonio (869 m a.s.l.), the last inhabited area before the peaks. In this ancient pastoral nucleus some families live permanently who still derive their income for agriculture, breeding and tourist hospitality.
For those wishing to break the first tiring stage in two days, the “La Betulla” farmhouse can be an excellent base. (tel. +39 339 8861260).

From Alpe di Sant’Antonio reach Colle Panestra (CAI path no. 133) to the locality Piglionico; from here follow uphill the CAI path no. 7 to the mountain hut “E. Rossi” (1609 mt. a.s.l.), surrounded by well-known mountains: Pania Secca, Pania della Croce, Pizzo delle Saette and Puntone di Mezzo al Prato best known as “the nose”.

Overnight stay:

Mountain Hut CAI Enrico Rossi +39 (0)583 710386 open every day from June 15 to September 15, during the remaining period open just on weekends, it provides a winter lodge.

Nearby overnight stay:

Farmhouse La Betulla – Loc. Alpe di S. Antonio tel +39 339 8861260 – ask for opening due to Covid-19

Baita Pania – Loc. Piglionico tel +39 348 3898003

Walking Time: 7.30 hrs
Lenght: 14 Km
Elevation gain:
↑ Uphill 1350 mt
Difficulty: medium level

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