Monte Rotondo via "u pianu di lu capra Mattoto" from Lavu Bellebone

Park along the road at the end of the access road (Source Slibellu) via the D723 from the T20.

(S/E) Take the path heading west. It runs along the right bank of the Malinello Ravine, then turns left to reach a crossroads at the "Porte aux Vaches".

(1) Take the path on the left towards Refuge de Petra Piana and begin the climb under the pine trees. The slope becomes steeper, then the path leaves the wooded area and arrives at Bergeries de Gialghello (altitude 1,440 m).

(2) Continue straight uphill to Bocca Tribali (altitude 1,590 m).

(3) After the pass, take care to take the path on the right, the one furthest upstream, towards the Bergeries de Muraccioli (altitude 1,650 m).

(4) Cross over to the start of the Monte Rotondo ravine.

(5) To find the next section, look for the start of the climb to the right, near the first stream crossing (altitude 1,660 m). The next section is the most difficult because the climb to Lavu Bellebone is without a path, but you can follow the cairns along the rocks. If you stray slightly, it is easy to find the right direction by climbing straight up the slope. The classic route is to stay to the right of the Monte Rotondo Ravine to reach the lake shore directly. Walking on the rocky slabs makes the effort easier. Aim for a point overlooking the lake, with Monte Rotondo in the background. The climb is over more rugged and demanding terrain, but the reward is a superb panorama from the small flat rock that we have nicknamed U pianu di lu capra Mattoto.

(6) Go around the lake on the right, then stay on the right side of the climb and arrive at Col du Fer de Lance (alt. 2,485 m).

(7) Head left towards the summit. The last section requires climbing over a few rocks using all four limbs, but it is not difficult and remains accessible to most people. The summit of Monte Rotondo is reached via the Helbronner shelter, about thirty metres before the summit.

(8) Take advantage of the shelter (of remarkable historical and scientific importance) before or after reaching the summit.

(9) At Monte Rotondo, the 360° panorama is splendid. The return journey follows the same route in the opposite direction. Please note: the descent requires caution. Do not underestimate the fatigue and the risk of falling that it can entail. Return to the car park (S/E).

You will need good walking shoes, especially for the descent, which requires careful footing on rocky terrain. You should also anticipate a lack of water, even though it is possible to refill your water bottles at high-altitude water points: be careful to always collect water upstream from the area where the last vegetation and cows are located.