The Cadorna Line
A Historical Hiking Experiences Through History, Nature, and Memory
The Cadorna Line is one of Northern Italy’s most fascinating legacies from the First World War, now transformed into an exceptional network of historical hiking itineraries. Designed in the late 19th century and built between 1915 and 1918, the line was intended to defend Italy’s northern frontier from a potential invasion through neutral Switzerland—a threat that never materialized.
Stretching from Val Ferret to Bellano-Dervio, across Ossola, Varese, and Como, the line included: 72 km of trenches, 88 artillery positions (8 of them underground), 300 km of military roads, and about 400 km of mule tracks.
Here, the traces of the Great War blend with untouched Alpine landscapes. Military architecture, silence, and breathtaking panoramas create an experience where history and nature unfold with rare intensity.
Hiking itineraries surrounded by history and culture, where tourism becomes the joy of discovering historical memory.
Sublime Lakes offers guided routes that combine trekking, culture, and storytelling, giving travelers unique and memorable experiences.
Curated Itineraries by Sublime Lakes
Lake Maggiore – From Piancavallo to Monte Morissola
One of the most spectacular Cadorna Line itineraries, this circular route connects Piancavallo to Monte Morissola, a strategic summit with breathtaking views over Lake Maggiore and the surrounding Alps. Along the way, hikers encounter preserved military roads, trenches, and observation posts, illustrating the defensive strategy of Italy’s northern frontier.
Walking time (excluding stops): approximately 3 hours.
Val Grande National Park – Untouched Italy
Bordering Italy’s largest wilderness area, Val Grande is one of Europe’s last truly untouched Alpine landscapes. From Passo Forolungo to Monte Zeda, hikers explore extensive trench systems, communication passages, and small forts immersed in wild nature.
Valcuvia – Cassano Valcuvia: Interactive Historical Interpretation Point
The interpretation center features historical photos, original documents, and multimedia installations, deepening the understanding of the Northern Frontier Defence Line and its role during the First World War.
Lake Mergozzo – From Pra’ Michelaccio to the Montorfano Peaks
Overlooking the serene waters of Lake Mergozzo, this lesser-known itinerary follows historic military paths through a tranquil and intimate landscape, perfect for travelers seeking silence, reflection, and a refined connection between nature and history.
Lake Lugano – Monte Orda and Monte Pravello
Routes along these strategic ridges above Lake Lugano reveal trenches, artillery emplacements, and panoramic viewpoints over both Italian and Swiss territory, highlighting the geopolitical significance of this border during the Great War.
Lake Como – Crocetta di Menaggio and Forte Montecchio Nord
Above Menaggio, the route follows historic military roads with spectacular views of Lake Como. The experience concludes with a visit to Forte Montecchio Nord, one of the best-preserved and most advanced artillery fortifications of the First World War.
Monte San Martino, Valcuvia – Lake Varese
A 7 km itinerary with 600 meters of elevation gain from Mesenzana to San Martino. Visitors explore open trenches and underground galleries with gun emplacements, guided by volunteers from the Regio Esercito Cultural Association and expert speleologists—an immersive journey into both history and local geology.
These itineraries are designed for travelers seeking depth, exclusivity, and intellectual engagement, combining hiking, history, and nature.
Write at info@sublimelakes.com to discover all details.
