There are 8 stages and 160 kilometers that make up one of the most fascinating paths in Lombardy: the “Charlemagne’s Way” takes its name from an ancient 15th-century legend about a journey undertaken by the ruler from Pavia to Verona, passing through Lodi, Bergamo, Val Cavallina, Val Borlezza, Lovere, Val Camonica and the Tonale Pass.
As he passed through, Charlemagne conquered castles from pagans and converted them to Christianity. To celebrate his victories he built churches on the ruins of destroyed castles. Among the battles he disputed, it is said that, at the Mortirolo Pass, he violently routed the Lombard troops.
Part of the journey can be retraced today through the Cammino, starting in Bergamo, passing through towns along the Serio River, the Argon Valleys, Val Cavallina, Val Borlezza, and finally arriving in Valle Camonica. It is a varied and spectacular path that combines cities, valleys, lakes and Alpine passes, between the territories of Bergamo and Brescia.
It starts from Piazza Duomo in Bergamo Alta at about 380 meters asl and arrives in Ponte di Legno at 1300 meters asl, in the vicinity of Passo del Tonale. The total elevation gain makes this route of medium difficulty, with some rather challenging climbs and descents.
Pilgrims can apply for and carry the Charlemagne’s Way Credential, the document to be stamped at each stage needed to attest to the actual completion of the Way and obtain the Testimonium once completed.
The first 19.5 km will lead you from the magnificent Piazza Duomo of Bergamo Alta to San Paolo d’Argon. Along the way you will pass by the Church of San Michele del Pozzo Bianco, with frescoes from the 13th century onward, then out of the city and into the vineyards and hills of Scanzorosciate and Torre dè Roveri. The stage ends in front of theBenedictine Abbey of San Paolo d’Argon..
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The second stage, with its 22.8 km, runs through Val Cavallina and ends on the beautiful Lake Endine: starting from San Paolo d’Argon, it climbs toward Cenate Sopra to the Sanctuary of Santa Maria Assunta in Monte Misma located over 800 meters above sea level, and then crosses several historic villages such as Luzzana, Borgo di Terzi and Vigano San Martino and skirts Lake Endine, where you first pass by the Monasterolo del Castello Castle and finally reaches from the Church of San Pietro in Vincoli in Spinone al Lago.
From Spinone al Lago, one ascends to the scenic Bianzano Castle and after passing through the small medieval village you reach Ranzanico. Continue toward Sovere entering Val Borlezza and then climb toward the Sanctuary of San Giovanni on Mt. Cala and descend again to Lovere, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, on the shores of Lake Iseo.
The last stop in Bergamo territory will lead you from the Basilica of Santa Maria in Valvendra to the hamlets of Corti and Volpino in the municipality of Costa Volpino. It continues to the village of Rogno and then crosses into Brescian territory, climbing to admire Lake Moro and finally arriving at Terme di Boario.
By showing the Credential at the entrance, access to the Spa Park is free of charge and the SPA path can be enjoyed with 20% discount.
The Camino then continues with four more stages.
