301 - Pian Cales

San Bernardino lies at the foot of the pass of the same name. The small holiday resort experienced its first boom in tourism at the onset of the 19th century. Italy's aristocracy came to San Bernardino because of the therapeutic powers of its mineral water. The spa period ended with the onset of the World Wars. In the center of San Bernardino there are still some old palazzi (mansions) recalling past glory. Today, guests come to the Misox region because of unspoiled nature as well as for its unique mountain landscape.From the village, after the residential area of Conchetta, we choose the trail which runs parallel to the cross-country ski track. Gently ascending, we walk on comfortably snow beaten paths through the forest till Alp de Pian Doss enjoying impressive views on the village, the unique landscape of the pass and its mountain peaks. The distinctive pyramid of Piz Uccello (Bird Mountain), landmark of San Bernardino, is our companion for the way. Incidentally, the San Bernardino Pass used to be called Mons Avium, Latin for Bird Mountain Pass.After the alpine pasture, the path turns to the left. The ski resort of Pian Cales is reached by hiking up an extended side valley. Carefully traversing the cross-country ski track, we return downhill to the village. Back in San Bernardino we can enjoy a hot chocolate or revitalize with a fine slice of cake.