THE FORT OF ORINO

Trail 13/313, which leads from Gavirate to Forte di Orino, is a fascinating and challenging hiking itinerary, ideal for those who wish to combine a passion for the mountains with an interest in history

Once you reach the summit, at around 1,100 metres above sea level, you reach the Orino Fort, a defensive structure now partly ruined, but full of charm.

The fort, part of the Cadorna Line, is just the latest chapter in a much older story. It is believed that the area served as a strategic observation point as early as Roman times. In the Middle Ages, the fortification was strengthened and became a crucial point during the struggles between the Guelphs and Ghibellines. With the advent of the Duchy of Milan, it lost its military importance and fell into ruin, until partially rebuilt in the twentieth century.

Today, Orino Fort is a popular destination for hikers and photographers: from here, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Prealps, the Piedmont and Central Alps, Lake Maggiore, the smaller lakes of the province of Varese, and the vast expanse of the Po Valley. A place where the effort of the climb is rewarded by history, silence, and beauty.