From here - signs and two war stations - leave the road and start walking on the north slopes of Croz di Stavel along a trail carved in the rock.

This section of the path has an almost flat slope but shows exposed parts that can cause difficulties to the less experienced, however well equipped.

A tunnel with steel cable welcomes hikers and, together with the later crossing of a torrent under wooden boards, makes this part of the trail quite interesting and varied.

Trail No. 233 leads into Val Presanella, where it meets trail No. 206 coming up from Val Stavel (1939 m).

T he greatest difference in height along the route is b etween this point and Rifugio Denza.

Continue on trail No. 206. The path begins to climb with a few hairpin bends and long straight stretches that allow to gain altitude without too much pain. Characteristic of this section of the route is the path surface, made out of countless rocks   to form a nice granite bed.

After a first climb, the trail moves to the eastern side of Croz di Stavel and, remaining high onto the valley floor, heads south without being too steep.

The final stretch, steeper and with narrow hairpins, heralds the arrival at Rifugio Stavel – Francesco Denza, located at 2293 m.

Move to the south side of the mountain hut, turn right at the sign and in five minutes you will reach a small gorge leading to a basin, home to the small but charming Lake Presanella (2314   m).

The return is back along the uphill route.