Northern Grigna Park

Introduction

Description

The park covers an area of 5500 hectares covering the territory of eight municipalities in the province of Lecco. It extends entirely above 500m around the Grigne massif, consisting of the southern Grigna or Grignetta and the northern Grigna or Grignone, which at 2409m is the highest peak. These imposing mountains present a rugged and varied morphology of limestone peaks and ridges reminiscent of the spectacular landscapes of the Dolomites. They are also interesting for the numerous karst phenomena and the large concentration of caves, among the deepest in Italy and the world. The park has an elevation of over 2200m. It therefore hosts an exceptional floristic heritage rich in rarities and endemisms. At lake level there are laurels, cedars, blackthorns and downy oaks; in the cooler valleys hollies, yews, field and mountain maples. On the terraces, olive trees are cultivated, while higher up, up to about 1000 m, beech forests grow. Finally, at higher altitudes, there are pure coniferous formations and isolated dwarf pine formations on the edge of the alpine meadows.  The major fauna is represented by grouse, partridge, rock partridge, chamois and various species of birds of prey (black and white kites, golden eagles, eagle owls, peregrine falcons). Invertebrates include interesting endemic species. Due to its proximity to large population centres, the area is a traditional destination for Lombard mountaineers, who find these limestone walls a natural training ground. The park is also equipped with hiking trails.

Information

Year of foundation:
Foundation area:5,500 hectares
Maximum elevation:Northern Grigna (2409m)
Municipalities concerned: Cortenova, Esino Lario, Parlasco, Pasturo, Perledo, Primaluna, Taceno, Varenna
 Institutional website: www.parcogrigna.it
Contacts: comunita.montana@valsassina.it