This year the month of January - Sunday 24th to be precise, will host the third edition of Camminata con i cerchi da neve, [walking with snow tyres], that is the meaning of the expression in the Walser language from which the snow shoe walk on Monte Rosa takes its name.

Organised by the Pro-Motion events in collaboration with certain entities and associations of Macugnaga, including the council, Casa Museo Walser and the Macugnaga Ski Club, this year's edition includes the novelty of a competitive race deemed valid for the coppa Italia, a race that will accompany the trip across the snow along the most important sights of this Anzasca village.

Departure is scheduled for 10.30 a.m. in Pecetto (1370 m.), a hamlet of Macugnaga from which the race will take the cross-country track leading to the wonderful Quarazza Valley up to the edge of the Lago delle Fate (1315 m). Here the descent towards Fornarelli begins, followed by arrival at Isella Cross-Country Centre (1220 m.).

Assistance en-route will be organised by the Macugnaga Alpine Rescue team. Prices remain the same as last year, €10 or €12 for those who wish to rent snow shoes. Participants can have lunch at some of Macugnaga's typical restaurants at the discounted price of €10 per person (first course, drink, dessert and coffee).

For registration and information you can contact the event organisers Pro-Motion (www.pro-motion.it, Tel. 0323/919861) or the Macugnaga Tourist Office (phone 0324/65119).