Val di Melago
Latitude: 45,873308 | Longitude: 11,590407
Plateau area/s:
Activities and services
Summer pasturing
– Mountain grazing is the uphill journey of the livestock to the Alpine pasture.
– It is recommended to check the website and social media profiles of the malga for updated activities and services.
Malga Melaghetto is situated in the hollow of the same name at 1200 m altitude located at the beginning of the Val di Melago, nestled between Monte Valbella to the west and Col del Rosso to the east. Its pastures stretch out on soft and easily accessible rolling hills surrounded by woods of spruce and beech trees.
In this area, as in many other areas of the Plateau, the terrain is still visibly marked by the numerous craters left by bombs exploded during the First World War.
Following a short trail from the malga, you can reach the peak of the very scenic Col del Rosso, which is one of the three peaks of the famous “Battaglia dei Tre Monti” (Battle of the Three Mountains), fought between 25 December 1917 and 31 January 1918 between Valbella, Col del Rosso and Col d’Ecchele.
Competent body:
Comune di GALLIO
ID code
Altitude (m)
Surface area (ha)
Livestock
LSU no.
Pasture
Woods
Ponds
ID code
50
Altitude (m)
1204
Surface area (ha)
90,88
Livestock
Cows
LSU no.
120
Pasture
Arrenatereto
Woods
Spruce forest, beech trees
Ponds
6
How to get there
From the center of Gallio, go towards Bassano del Grappa as far as Bertigo loc. Turn left and continue for about 2 km, until you find Malga Ronco Carbon on your right. From here, continue on the narrow dirt road for about 3 km.
Do you want to have the best experience in the malga?
When you arrive at the malga, you’re entering the “home” of the malga operator population and their livestock: It’s a welcoming environment, rich with fascination, everything is to be discovered but also respected. Here are our recommendations for you!
The malga operator lifestyle is characterized by hardwork that starts before dawn and continues even after sundown. For example…Did you know that there two times set apart for milking? One before breakfast and another in the late afternoon.
Also, feel free to ask information but avoid going into work areas inaccessible to the public and be discrete: speaking too loudly may scare the livestock and disturb whomever is enjoying the peace of the mountain.
They are passive and docile animals but their size could put you in uncomfortable situations…or somewhat inappropriate behaviors could frighten them and provoke dangerous and unusual reactions.
It’s enough to maintain an adequate distance, avoid taking pictures from too close up, touching them, bothering them or looking them directly in the eye.
If you are with your dog, remember to keep it on a leash and under control.
When you find yourself near some cows, it’s better to avoid sudden movements, walk slowly and without getting anxious. And, if they were to get too close, distance yourself calmly and without turning your back to them!
They watch over the livestock and often offer a warm welcome to guests. Don’t worry: They are not dangerous. Treat them with respect and you will become good friends. If you are on a bike, slow down to avoid mean falls caused by demonstrations of affection a little too… overwhelming!
Those who follow the itineraries and visit the malgas know well how wonderful nature is, with its breathtaking landscapes. This is the reason why it is important not to pollute it with waste that can be taken home and properly recycled or disposed of.
The herdsmen of the plateau and the animals that live there are very fond of tourists who enjoy the wonderful days with walks, fresh air and relaxation… respecting the woods and pastures!!