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You can organize excursions to the Mottarone starting from Lake Orta in different routes. The Mottarone, with its 1,491 meters of altitude, is considered the “most accessible balcony of Upper Piedmont”. Located between Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta, this peak offers on clear days a spectacular view of seven lakes, Monte Rosa and the entire Alpine region. For lovers of trekking, the Mottarone is an unmissable destination, with a dense and well-marked trail network suitable for every level of experience.
Paths for All Levels
The Mottarone hiking network offers routes that satisfy both beginners and experienced hikers. The M3 ring route, departing from the Alpino station, crosses Mount Zughero (1,230 m) and the Alpe Nuovo, with panoramic views of both lakes and two suggestive streams before reaching the Cima Mottarone. This itinerary has a moderate elevation gain and is also suitable for families with children aged 6-7 years and up .
For those looking for a more challenging experience, the path that climbs from Omegna to the summit is one of the most exciting options. This route of about 13 kilometers with 1,210 meters of altitude difference includes stretches equipped with chains and takes about 6 hours and 45 minutes. The climb crosses landscapes characterized by granite rocks, betulle and chestnut woods, offering views always present towards Lake Orta and the Strona Valley.
The Classic Route from Stresa
The Stresa-Mottarone path represents the classic itinerary to reach the summit. With its 11 kilometers and 1,291 meters of altitude difference, this hiking difficulty route takes about 4 hours and 10 minutes. Starting from the town of Stresa or from the Lido of Carciano, the path crosses the city streets heading towards Via Selvalunga, which runs along beautiful parks of ancient villas.
Continuing, you will find the hamlet of Someraro, a real balcony on the Borromean Islands, and then the Alpino, a place of luxurious villas and home to the renowned botanical garden “Alpinia”. The route winds through beech and chestnut woods, following the ancient route of the rack railway that until the sixties connected Stresa to the Mottarone.
Practical information for excursions to Mottarone
An important information for those planning thevisit: the Stresa-Alpino-Mottarone cable car is currently closed for renovation of the plant. The only way to reach the summit is by car or on foot. The scenic road that goes up from Stresa is simple and well marked, about 16 kilometers.
At altitude there are two reliable footholds for hikers.
The Rifugio Genziana on top of the Mottarone is the main refuge, open in season with ample outdoor space, ideal for a lunch stop or a snack after the excursion. The Baita Alpe Nuovo, located 1,204 meters near Mount Zughero, offers a cozy space with 12 beds and is available by reservation.
The Best Period and the Shelters for excursions to Mottarone
The best time for hiking is from May to October, when the weather is more favorable and you enjoy pleasant temperatures, lush landscapes and wildflowers. During these months, the trails are more accessible and longer days allow for worry-free excursions.
In addition to the trek, the Mottarone also offers the Mottarone Adventure Park with acrobatic trails and the Alpyland, a summer road bob perfect for families with children. The summit meadows are safe and spacious, ideal for outdoor days. For mountain bike enthusiasts, the Mottarone Trail Park offers a dozen routes that are tracked and maintained, divided by difficulty level. Article Excursions to Mottarone.
Visitthe CAI Omegna website