It’s the year 2020BL (before lockdown), and with the travel restrictions in place, I decided to explore some hikes in the local area. That only lasted for one hike because the next day the countrywide lockdown began. So I’m super grateful that my pack leader, Coco Chanel, and I were able to head out for this outing. Here’s a guide on how to hike the Croce di Lumignano trail in Vicenza which is a great one when you want to stay close but still get out for an active adventure. I hope to have some more local outings to share with you once things go back to normal.
A Complete Guide For The Croce Di Lumignano Hike in Vicenza
Disclaimer
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FAQ for the Croce di Lumignano hike
Where is it located?
Lumignano, about 20 minutes drive from Ederle.
What skill level is required?
Beginner – it can be a little steep, more details below.
What type of hike is it?
It can be point to point or loop.
Is it good for children?
Yes – depending on the kid though. You know your kids best so use your best judgment.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes.
What should you bring with you?
- Good hiking shoes (these are my favorite shoes for hiking)
- Water
- Snacks or energy gels (I always have one of these with me when I hike)
- Sun protection
- Camera (I used my GoPro with this compact selfie stick and tripod)
Where to park for the Croce di Lumignano hike
I recommend using ‘Piazza Mazzaretto’ for parking. It is a small lot just a short walk from the start of the trail.
If this is full, you can also find street parking or a spot in one of the lots further down the street.
Where is the start of the hike
There are a few options for where you can start the trail.
You can start trail #2 or #3 from Via Campanonta which starts after you walk past a house. It feels like you’re walking into someone’s house but the trail begins behind it.
This trail forks where you have an option to use #2 or #3 and it’s clearly signed.
For another option, you could begin trail #3 from Via Rialto.
Which trail should you choose?
I did a loop using trail #2 up to the cross and came down using the trail #3 that leads to Via Rialto.
If you are not as confident hiking, I recommend taking trail #3 from Via Rialto up to the cross.
To do this, you will walk past houses, up the street Via Rialto, and follow the trail markings at the end of that to begin the trail from there. This route is more open, less steep, and gets a little more sun so it is less slippery.
To come back down you could return the way you came, or try the other section of trail #3 or trail #2.
Trail #2 is steeper, with lots of switchbacks, and can be slippery if it has been raining. It’s still a fairly easy trail overall but I just wanted to explain the different options.
What to expect
The trail is fairly rocky and has a mix of shaded areas and open sections.
I didn’t wear my Minimus shoes for this hike but they are my usual favorite hiking shoes because they make me feel a lot more stable while hiking.
They probably would’ve handled the slippery areas a lot better than my Nikes did, but overall, my Nike sneakers worked out for this one.
Whatever you use, I recommend having some good shoes for this hike.
Once you get to the cross, there are a couple of benches and a gorgeous view. It’d be a nice hike to pack lunch or some snacks and have it at the top.
It’s a fairly popular trail, so you are likely to see other people hiking while you’re there. If you look up, you’ll probably see people rock climbing as well.
Safety tips
The trail is quite well marked with a mix of signs, the usual red and white trail markings, and even some spray-painted arrows. It’s easy to follow, just remember to pay attention as you are on the trail.
If it has been raining, expect it to be a little muddy and slippery in some sections.
As with any hike, check the weather forecast, stick to the trail, and use your best judgment as to whether this is a good hike for you.
For snacks or a drink in the area
If you want to stop for a drink or snack after the hike, there are a couple of local bars near the start of the hike.
I didn’t stop at any of these but Bar Fantasy was poppin when I went past.
Overall thoughts
The Croce di Lumignano hike is a great option if you want a quick outdoor outing but don’t want to commit to a long drive or lots of tolls.
Even though it’s in a residential area, it’s still a nice place to get into nature. As you move up the trail it’s quick to feel like you’re a lot further away from civilization than you actually are.
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Other guides you might enjoy
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- A Practical Guide On How To Hike The 52 Tunnels Trail In Italy
- Tramonti Di Sopra Nature Pool – The Off The Beaten Path Swimming Oasis
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