At Monteaperta (600 m), we locate the trail markers for the Gran Monte, which we follow up to the fountain “Fonte Genzianella”; the trail passes the last houses and ascends a concrete staircase to enter the forest. Near a stream, we find a fork: we take the right path, trail 711. We move through the forest – initially along the edge of the village meadows – to a first stone fountain, located at a bend in the trail; continuing along a wide and shady mule track, we cross a stream – also here excellent water is available – and start ascending in altitude, with the path making numerous long switchbacks. When we surpass 850 meters altitude, the forest suddenly disappears to give way to a beautiful view: the southern slope of Monte Briniza, grassy, is cut by our mule track, which takes its time to climb – still with switchbacks, but with a gentler gradient than what was faced before.
Without difficulty, we reach Sella Kriz (1540 m), the main saddle of the Gran Monte complex. This pass is dominated by a large crucifix. In the metal box there is the summit book, or better the “pass” book.
Return by the same route as the ascent.
