Valle Chiarano and Lake Pantaniello

Miscellaneous Info

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Approach

Caianello exit on the A2 motorway to Naples; take the State road 17 past Venafro, Cerro al Volturno and Castel di Sangro then proceed to Roccaraso and Pescocostanzo. After this latter village, park near to the medieval church (Madonna del Carmine).


this traverse is a true pearl of the Mountains of the Abruzzo Park and Cinque Miglia. The surroundings are solemn and solitary. To finish the traverse, leave a vehicle near to the Aremogna Refuge, where the ski lifts begin.

Route Description

Starting from the mediaeval church of the Madonna del Carmine, this route begins by crossing Piano delle Cinque Miglia which leads to the Valley of Bocca di Chiarano with its characteristic high limestone rock spurs. Head in the direction of these spurs until you reach a flat area just before the Imposto forestry refuge (1470 metres). Pass along a steep section to come out in a beech wood (approx. 1600 metres) and then continue into the large Chiarano valley, leaving Monte Fratello on the right. Continue towards Lake Pantaniello (1818 metres); there is a shepherd's hut in the vicinity, and then continue upwards to the left to a pass that divides Toppe del Tesoro from Monte Greco.

Go toward north. You reach a steep gravelly slant, that in winter, if frozen can create some difficulties.
The north crest is reached . The inclination is reduced. (2143 mt)
At this point, overgone 100 plain metres , it is possible to follow the slope north, steep and delicate if frozen.
Or, to go toward the Valley Pistacchia and to climb an easy slope.
After the descent from the peak it is possible to reach, along the slopes, Toppe del Tesoro and to arrive at the ski lifts. From here, descend the ski slopes as far as the Aremogna Refuge (1622 m) and the end of the route.

Essential Gear

to ascend on snow, snowshoes or ski are indispensable (if there is deep snow), to avoid sinking down into the snow which makes the trip very tiring.
Crampons and ice-axe are useful for the final climb to M. Greco

Maps:
- Carte IGM - 1:25,000, 153 IV SW Pescocostanzo and 153 III NW Barrea
- "Appennino centrale I" - C. Landi Vittorj - CAI - TCI - Milan, 1984;
- "Appennino Bianco" - S. Ardito e E. Ercolani- Iter - Subiaco, 1985;