The Val Montina was the first place in the European Alps to be declared a wilderness area: A wilderness is “nature in its wild state, uncultivated and unaltered by human intervention.”
It is a protected area in the territory of Perarolo di Cadore. Enclosed between the two ridges of Monte Duranno and Frati Peaks, it is still a wild environment.
Here you can run into several species of birds, including the majestic golden eagle, and mammals, such as hare, squirrel, marmot, deer, roe deer, and chamois.
To explore the area, walk on the easier routes through the woods, or make more of an effort on the more challenging trails suitable for more experienced hikers, or try climbing in the vertical gorges. Whatever activity you choose here you will enjoy unspoiled wilderness.
Curiosities
- Near Casera Valmontina is a nature trail, suitable for young children, with a walking time of about 15 minutes that pass beside a viewpoint and interesting evidence of ancient limekiln to produce quicklime.
- Try the footbridge suspended over the valley 90 metres above the ground. It can be reached by an easy walk of about 10 minutes from the parking lot of the Ansogne industrial area. It is a Tibetan bridge that provides access to Val Montina, when walking on it you feel as though you are suspended in the void because the support base allows you to see the stream below. Cross the bridge and continue walking to Casera Valmontina
- In summer in this area, thanks to limited human presence, rare birds can be encountered that choose Val Montina for a stop on their migration flights or to breed. It is possible to observe the Black Kite and Cuckoos, but also Goshawk, Golden Eagle, Black Grouse, Grouse, and Alpine Treecreeper.
- Caralte Adventure Park is a 5-minute drive from the parking lot where you leave your car to reach the footbridge. Many families plan the weekend spending two days between the wilderness area and the Adventure Park for a mix of fun for the little ones
