We have selected 5 easy itineraries for you, perfect for those who want to soak in the views at a slow pace, starting right from our villages of Rimella and Fobello.
The Mastallone Valley, a gem of Valsesia, is known as the "Emerald Valley." But you don't need to be an expert mountaineer to uncover its secrets.
We have selected 5 easy itineraries for you, suitable for those who want to enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace, starting from our villages of Rimella and Fobello.
1. From Sella to San Gottardo
It is the quintessential "home" walk. Starting from our facility in Frazione Sella (1329 m), you take the paved road that cuts across the mountainside, following the road to San Gottardo (1330 m).
- Why do it: It’s an almost entirely flat route that offers a spectacular view of the valley. You will arrive at San Gottardo ("A Runt"), a village where time seems to have stood still, accessible only on foot; where, in the main square, you can enjoy an aperitif with a stunning view of the Enderwasser valley.
- Travel time: approximately 20 minutes.
Take a look at our article "10 things to do in Val Mastallone and Valsesia in summer" to learn more about this beautiful village!
2. Towards the Alpe della Selletta
Continuing from San Gottardo (or directly from Sella), you ascend slightly towards Alpe della Selletta (1449 m).
- The experience: This is the perfect place to meet grazing cows during the summer. It’s a charming alpine pasture where the sound of cowbells provides the soundtrack. A true paradise for anyone looking for a postcard-worthy photo.
- Travel time: approximately 15 minutes from San Gottardo.
If you don't feel like heading back right away, we recommend extending your trip to Alpe Wàn by following the signs found at Selletta, which can be reached in just a few minutes. With a bit of luck, especially in the spring season, you might spot some local wildlife.
3. From San Gottardo to San Giorgio
This path connects the hamlet of San Gottardo to the small and picturesque San Giorgio (1420 m).
- The path: It winds through some beech trees that provide a refreshing coolness in the summer. San Giorgio is a small cluster of stone houses with a delightful little church dedicated to the saint after whom the village is named. A corner of absolute peace away from the tourist flows.
- Travel time: approximately 30 minutes.
4. From Roncaccio Inferiore/Fobello to the Res
To reach Alpe la Res, from which one can enjoy a stunning panorama on two sides, you can start from two different points that offer two distinct experiences.
Passing through Roncaccio Inferiore - Alpe della Res
We are including this option because, although it is longer than the one starting from Fobello, it is less steep and shaded, passing through a beautiful forest.
After passing the Pianello area, park the car at the fork you will find just after the village, at this point: Fork.
Look at the fork: one of the two paths goes downward. Take that one, and follow the descent towards the Landwasser stream and cross the little bridge, which leads you up to Roncaccio Inferiore (1124 m). Continue on, passing by Roncaccio Superiore (1205 m), where the "Obru Huusch" Refuge is located.
At this point, the trail becomes wooded and almost flat, and in a short time you will arrive at the beautiful Alpe la Res (1419 m).
Fobello - Alpe della Res
This route is undoubtedly the most comfortable, and it is part of the G.T.A. (the Great Alpine Crossing), and in fact, it can be followed by following its symbol.
If you decide to take this path on a hot summer day, remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as it is very exposed to the sun and the ascent is a bit steeper with a constant incline.
Park at the Belvedere of Fobello (1200 m), here. Right at the entrance of the village, you will see the signs to follow to reach Alpe della Res (1419 m), and you just need to follow them for the entire route. You will arrive in about 45 minutes.
- Why do it: When you reach the end of your journey, you will enjoy a spectacular view from Alpe della Res on two sides, and you will be filled with a sense of peace that is more unique than rare.
- Travel time: Passing through Roncaccio Inferiore takes about 1 hour and a half, while passing by the Belvedere di Fobello takes about 45 minutes.
5. From Saint Anthony to Saint Anne
This itinerary unfolds in the heart of the Val Mastallone, connecting two places of great spirituality and natural charm. To begin, use the village of Sant’Antonio (1145 m) as your reference point, after passing the Pianello area. You can park when the asphalt road ends (here) and take a short walk to the little village.
From here, the path to the chapel of Sant'Anna (1318 m) begins, and you will arrive in about 30/40 minutes. You will find yourself in a small village, inhabited only in the summer, with a lovely little church.
Don't forget your towel, swimsuit, and river shoes, because on the way back, before arriving in Sant'Antonio, we recommend stopping along the rocks of the Mastallone River to relax and take a nice swim. Here you will be surrounded by the most absolute nature.
- What to see: The trail is easy and runs alongside stretches where the Mastallone stream displays its most beautiful colors. Arriving at Sant'Anna means finding yourself in a magical atmosphere, perfect for a refreshing stop by the cool water.
- Travel time: 40 minutes.
Our advice: Even though these trails are classified as "easy," always remember to wear hiking shoes with a good sole and to bring a water bottle with you.
The mountain should be experienced slowly, but always with the right equipment!
We also recommend 3 trekking apps that can simplify your itineraries:
- wikiloc
- komoot
- peakvisor
About Us: Bianca & Martino
Hello! We are Bianca and Martino, the souls behind this blog. Our story is a bridge between Romagna and the Alps.
Martino grew up among the slopes and pastures of Rimella, carrying in his heart the memories of summers spent in Val Mastallone and winter skiing on Monte Rosa. Despite life in Ravenna, the pull of his roots has always been incredibly strong.
Bianca, from Ravenna, discovered this corner of Piedmont for love: she fell in love first with Martino and, shortly after, with the wild beauty of Valsesia. In 2026, she decided to change her life, leaving her "permanent job" to turn a passion into reality and dedicate herself full-time to managing the diffused hotel Walser House.
Every summer we live among these mountains, and our goal is to share with you the experiences that make this place unique. We want to help you discover what it truly means to "unplug": here, among the stone houses and the sound of the streams, we have learned the true meaning of living "slow."
We are waiting for you in Val Mastallone to show you our idea of home.