SVIZZERA

Lake Cama in Val di Cama

Alpine lake set in an amphitheater of peaks.

THE HIKE

The Cama Valley, a lateral valley of the lower Val Mesolcina, harbors a natural gem of incredible beauty, Lake Cama, a body of water bordered by lush green meadows and larch forests. Being at less than 1300 meters above sea level, the hike is feasible from late spring onwards.

Despite its altitude, the elevation gain is considerable (almost 1000 meters): the valley is absolutely pristine, and the few huts or alpine pastures in the valley have no roads to access them other than the wide trail that we will also follow.

The trail starts from the small village of Cama (344m) in the lower Val Mesolcina; we cross the bridge over the highway and immerse ourselves in a beautiful forest of old chestnut trees, some of which are centuries old. Thanks to the shade along the way provided by these chestnuts first, then by spruces and larches, the ascent remains relatively cool even in the warmer months.

Near the Provesc alpine pasture (800m, 1 hour), the trail becomes much gentler in slope and, passing by huts and small alpine pastures, ascends the entire Val di Cama to the beautiful Lake di Cama (Lagh de Cama, 1265m, 1.30 hours), which suddenly appears below the imposing presence of Pizzo Martello.

At the beginning of the lake, there are three shelters/restaurants: Capanna Miralago, Rifugio Righetti-Fibbioli, and Alp da Lach, where goat cheese can be purchased.

For the descent (2 hours), we retrace our steps along the same trail.

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MAP

EQUIPMENT

The mountains are a dangerous environment: make sure you always have the right equipment — hiking or trail shoes, warm clothes and waterproofs in case of unexpected changes in weather conditions, a small emergency kit.

I've made an Amazon "shopping note" to make sure you have everything — ps if you buy from these links, 3% goes to support the development and maintenance of Hikes of the World 🙏.

Breathable t-shirt ( example )
Sweatshirt, fleece, or light jacket
Waterproof windbreaker (for example: men / women )
Gloves and hat (you never know)
Backpack with rain cover
Trekking poles (not essential, but they help to unload the weight of the backpack and ease the impact on the joints)
Trekking or trail running shoes (in great vogue lately because they are lightweight. These Salomon ones - for men and women - are an excellent entry-level, preferably Gore-Tex)
For via ferratas: complete via ferrata kit (I have this one , very light and compact, with this harness and helmet — or you can buy complete kits ). Buy in store to receive ad hoc support
To sleep a night in a refuge: sheet or light sleeping bag
Water bottle or thermos
Light crampons if you think you will find ice or snow on the route
Power bank or cell phone charger
Camera
Drone, for those who love to "fly" (used in moderation and at a distance from other people. I have had the DJI Mini 2 for over 2 years and have found myself very happy with it. The DJI Mini 3 also allows you to take vertical photographs)
Small emergency kit ( example )
Sun cream (essential)
Sunglasses