Forests are more than just a source of oxygen and biodiversity; they’re a refuge for the soul, a place where you can find yourself and connect with nature. The CamminaForeste in Lombardy spans 730 kilometres (453 mi) across the region’s state forests, which are a treasure trove of wildlife and natural beauty, extending for thousands of hectares.

The fourth stage of the CamminaForeste in Lombardy is a five-day journey through the Scalve Valley. Starting from Lake Iseo, you’ll gradually enter the Orobic Pre-Alps, which boast breathtaking views of mountain peaks and the lake. You’ll cross the Via del Ferro, immersing yourself in the Val di Scalve regional forest, where nature shows itself in its wildest and most authentic form. You’ll discover the Giovetto reserve, a sanctuary for the rare rufa ant, and reach Schilpario, the beating heart of the ancient Republic of the Scalve Valley. After conquering the Vivione Pass, you’ll arrive in Val Belviso, right on the border between the Bergamo area and Valtellina.

This collection has a wide altitude range,starting at around 200 metres (650 ft) above sea level and reaching almost 2,500 metres (8,200 ft). Along the way, you’ll hike difficult sections classified as expert level, such as passages on ridges equipped with chains.

Unless you are an experienced winter mountaineer, I’d recommend only tackling this hike from spring to September. Remember to bring the right equipment: hiking boots, a change of clothing, a waterproof, and warm layers. In winter or particularly cold autumns, crampons and trekking poles are essential.

If you’re continuing the CamminaForeste from the previous stage in Val Camonica (komoot.com/collection/2466020), you’ll start from Lovere. If you’re joining the route here, you can easily reach the city with Arriva buses from Bergamo. The end of the journey in the Belviso Valley is only accessible on foot. If you don’t want to continue towards Valtellina, you’ll have to hike to Aprica. From here, you can take the Perego line buses to Sondrio or hop on a train on the Trenord line to Tresenda-Aprica-Teglio.

At the end of each day, you’ll find accommodation ranging from mountain refuges to small B&Bs. Please note that they may not always be open or may be particularly busy. It’s advisable to inform yourself well in advance and book your accommodation early to ensure a comfortable rest after a day of walking.

As you walk, you’ll lose yourself in a world of plants. From the forest of the Valle del Freddo, with its unique microclimate, you’ll climb towards the Bergamo Prealps, always accompanied by the majestic presence of Presolana: the queen of the Orobie. Here, coniferous forests alternate with wide pastures in a kingdom where nature is deeply intertwined with the history and economy of local communities. It’s worth visiting the ethnographic museum in Schilpario, where you can learn more about the forest.

Happy forest walking.