Brignola Lakes – Maudagna valley

Set off from the Balma Refuge (1885 m) along the gravel track to the south-west.

After about one hundred and fifty metres, we reach Colletto Balma (1886 m). We now follow the road going directly downhill to the feet of Monte Mondolè.

After entering the enclave of Magliano Alpi, we pass by the gravel track lower down on the right that climbs up to Alpe and the Seirasso hill.

The route continues downhill through a number of narrow, deep valleys, dropping by more than 120 metres in altitude from the start point.

By now well into the Brignola valley, we ascend again to reach Gias dell’Alpe Brignola.

Pass by the path on the left to Colle Dente Brignola to continue uphill along the gravel track moving steeply up to Sella Brignola (1930 m), where there are several shepherds’ farmhouses. We continue along a number of easy bends leading us to a plateau.

Leaving the road continuing to the right, we cross the Brignola stream to begin an enjoyable route on its left bank (white/red trail sign) amidst the greenery and the rocks.

After a few easy climbs over eroded rocks, we arrive on the shore of the largest of the Brignola lakes, surrounded in spring by lush blooming flowers set in a delightful open valley of glacial origin at the feet of the Brignola and Ferlette mountain peaks.

There are in fact several lakes, although the others are largely reduced to peat bogs and are generally dry in summer.

After a well-deserved rest on the shores of the lake dotted with characteristic cotton grasses, we retrace out steps along the outward route.