SI D23S

The first section is the most challenging of the route: you ascend to the Vó Pass (2368m) and then, through a particularly exposed section (with handrail chains), you climb to the Demignone Pass (2485m), followed by a descent to the plain of the Venerocolo ponds and the homonymous pass (2314m). Next, you take the old mule track built for the "Cadorna Line" that passes near the San Carlo ponds and ascend to the Gatto Pass (2416m). You then descend with a constant slope and wide bends in the Valbona Valley, and after passing the lake of the same name, you go near Malga Gaffione (1825m). After that, you continue briefly on a dirt road until you reach the Vivione Refuge (1828m). This stage closely follows the Antonio Curò Naturalistic Itinerary (CAI signpost n°416).