The first day of the Sentiero Calanca leads from the San Bernardino pass to the Rifugio Pian Grand. It's a long day so better start early. The landscape ranges from green meadows at the start to rocky mountain passes along the way. At the end of the stage, you have the cosy Rifugio Pian Grand waiting for you.

The triangular shape of the rifugio cabins, with their steeply pitched roofs, makes them very photogenic.

Bring your own food as the rifugio is self-service. However, the kitchen is fully equipped with pots, pans, cutlery and gas.

For me, this was the most beautiful stage of the entire hike.