CAI 515: Albino - Selvino Trail

The Komoot estimate for this hike is approximately 3 hours and 56 minutes for the one-way journey. However, depending on your pace and stops, some sources suggest it can take between 2 hours and 45 minutes to just under 4 hours.

No, this trail is not recommended for beginners. It is classified as 'Escursionistico' (Hiking) by the Italian Alpine Club (CAI), meaning it requires some hiking experience. The initial ascent to Monte Cereto is quite steep and demands trained legs.

The trail officially begins above the Capuchin Convent in Albino. You can usually find parking in Albino town. For public transport, Albino is accessible by bus or tram, making it convenient to reach the trailhead.

The trail features varied terrain, including sections of an ancient mule track. It starts by winding through a wooded area, then becomes quite steep and potentially irregular and slippery as it ascends towards Monte Cereto. After the summit, it generally flattens, traversing ridges and mountain sides, and skirts the rocky western slopes of Monte Purito before becoming flat again near Selvino.

You'll encounter several notable points of interest. Highlights include panoramic views from the View of the Valley Near Erba and the Viewpoint Near Selvino. The Monte Cereto Summit Cross is a significant landmark, offering rewarding vistas. You'll also pass the Statue of Pope John XXIII and the Church of Saints Philip and James the Apostles. The trail also takes you past Monte Purito.

Yes, the route intersects with and shares sections of other trails. You'll find it overlaps with parts of the Alta Via delle Grazie - Tappa 1, Alta Via delle Grazie - Tappa 2, Periplo basso monte Purito, and Periplo alto monte Purito.

While there are no explicit restrictions against dogs on this trail, it's a moderate to challenging hike with steep and potentially slippery sections. Ensure your dog is fit for such terrain and always keep them on a leash, especially near wildlife or other hikers. Remember to carry enough water for both yourself and your pet, as the Predalequer spring is the only natural water source along the way.

No, you do not need any special permits or to pay entrance fees to hike this trail. It is a public path in the Val Seriana region, freely accessible to hikers.

The best time to hike this trail is typically during spring, early summer, and autumn. These seasons offer more pleasant temperatures and clearer views. Avoid hiking during heavy rain, as sections can become very slippery, and during winter if there's snow or ice, which would significantly increase the difficulty.

The only natural water source directly along the trail is the Predalequer spring, located a short distance from 'Pià 'lla Löera'. It's always advisable to carry sufficient water with you, especially on warmer days, as this is the only reliable spot.

A great insider tip for this point-to-point hike is to utilize the cable car from Selvino back down to Albino. This offers a different perspective of the landscape and saves you from hiking back down the challenging ascent, providing a convenient and scenic return option.