Val di Scalve lies between Brescia and Bergamo and owes its name to a Celtic word (Skalf) meaning cleft, either because of its mining vocation or because of the deep gorges formed by the Dezzo stream. It is surrounded by a prealpine environment, although its mountains (Pizzo Camino, Cimon della Bagozza, and Pizzo Tornello) have vertiginous, sharp walls that are not unlike the nearby Alps. A valley rich in historical interest, Val di Scalve has been contended over the years for its mineral resources, which were harvested until the 1970s (just a generation ago).
Given its rich landscape and culture, it has been revived as an all-around tourist destination. It represents an area rich in opportunities and experiences. In this article you will find for many topics practical advice on what to do in Schilpario and Val di Scalve.
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1. Culture
When one thinks of mine work, very distant places or times are evoked in the mind, instead the mines of Schilpario until the 1970s were still regularly frequented. Since 1997, however, there has been a Sky mine to make memories and understand what working in the mines has meant in history. The guided tour lasts about a couple of hours and begins with a small train that leads to the heart of the mountain. Afterwards, the accompaniment includes a walking piece with the necessary equipment to move protected in that environment. The return to the sunlight will be a whole new thrill.
2. Hiking
The mountains always offer dozens of possibilities for every ability and experience, here we have selected two treks. In addition to the famous Gleno Dam we propose the Albani refuge from Colere, which is worth a visit for the quality of hospitality it offers.
Gleno Dam
From Vilminore di Scalve it is possible to reach Pianezza, where in the summer period there is a paid parking lot. From there with only 300 meters of elevation gain and 3 km you reach the majestic Gleno Dam which tells the tragic story of this great work.
Albani Refuge
From Colere follow the road to the Carbonera locality. Park the car and follow path 403 with an elevation gain of about 900 meters. Let yourself be tempted by the kitchen of the refuge while admiring the frightening north face of Presolana.
3. Two wheels
Although not yet developed in a modern sense for e-bikes, the trail system in the Scalve Valley lends itself perfectly for many tours, moderately challenging depending on whether you pedal e-bikes or muscle bikes. There are not many, but there are some e-bikes to rent between Schilpario and Colere in the pro-loco or tourist offices. We propose here a very simple, but very scenic MTB route. The tour of the hamlets of Vilminore di Scalve which is 20 km long and has an elevation gain of about 400 mt, mostly on dirt road with short sections on path and others on asphalt. For a precise description of the route click here.
4. Nature
When you see an anthill in a forest, that is an indication that the natural environment is healthy. The Giovetto Woods represent a nature reserve of nearly 600 hectares between Azzone (BG) and Borno (BS). It was established in 1983 to preserve the Rufa ant, which is exported from here to areas where it is absent. Among the most interesting wildlife species the black grouse deserves a place of honor for its rarity and beauty. Will you be lucky enough to observe it in its natural habitat?
5. Folklore
To conclude this roundup of activities, a special note to the folklore traditions of the Scalve Valley that have remained authentic and genuine, albeit in the tourist interest of the event. We highlight two in particular: one at the beginning and the other at the end of summer.
Shoulder Festival
In some mountain areas, pork shoulder has been an added value in ancient peasant cuisine. Simmered for a long time, it is accompanied by Icelandic lichen found in the forests of the valley and with boiled potatoes. Today the Shoulder Festival in Schilapario is a way to celebrate a symbol of peasant life whose ties to nature we must not forget. The time is definitely characteristic and festive because tables are put up in the square until there are 800 seats in 2023. In case of bad weather the festival is moved to the indoor arena. Generally in late June.
Scalvina Livestock and Agriculture Fair.
Throughout the Alps at the end of the season-now increasingly long-the beasts come down from the summer pastures and parade through the village streets. Vilminore di Scalva, too, celebrates this festival over two days with a packed program. On the first day it is the goats' turn with the deployment of the animals and the tractor parade, and on the second day it is the cattle's turn with a final milking competition. All this is accompanied at all times by local delicacies, especially the famous scalvine crests.
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