SloWays • Via Spluga, Switzerland-Chiavenna |

The via Spluga represents a classic cultural hiking route within the central Alps which, throughout the centuries, has linked the towns of Thusis (Switzerland) and Chiavenna (Italy), hence incorporating the Grigionese people, the Rhaeto-Romansch, Walser and the population of Lombardia. Most of the route winds its way gently along old mule-tracks which have either maintained their original characteristics or have at least been restored to something like their natural state.
The walk, as well as offering the opportunity to appreciate a slice of genuine history also permits you to get to know a very particular mountain terrain alongside the local population whose life has
been particularly influenced by generations of travellers making their way across the Alpine pass.

Route

Day 1: Arrival in Splugen

Day 2: From Splügen to Montespluga, 10 km

Day 3: From Montespluga to Isola di Chiavenna, 9 km

Day 4: From Isola di Chiavenna to Campodolcino and bus to Chiavenna, 6 km

Day 5: Bus to Campodolcino and walk to Chiavenna, 13 km

Day 6: Arrivederci Chiavenna!

Day 1: Arrival in Splugen

In the entire Alpine region it´s difficult to imagine a settlement so characterised and indelibly marked by the unmistakeable signs of movement towards and over mountain passes. Thanks to considerable efforts it´s been made possible for visitors to appreciate fully the lingering image that Splügen displays in all its original splendour.

Even today it´s not difficult to understand two very different aspects of this crossroads: the elegant, stylish mansions typical of the Spluga Pass, which occupy the outskirts of Sustenbach and other houses in Walser style of the "Bsetzi", the part of the town to the west of the historic centre with its typical network of cobbled alleys. The local museum - Rheinwalder Heimatmuseum - is well worth a visit, where the history of centuries of transit through the valley is splendidly documented.

Day 2: From Splügen to Montespluga, 10 km

Before heading off again it’s certainly worth having a look at Splügen village itself, an impressive example of meticulous conservation. Alpine pastures with breathtaking panorama of the surrounding peaks, avalanche barrier tunnels and well-maintained, cobbled/paved mule-tracks are all set to feature along this high-altitude and expansive section, enhanced by the heady fragrance of blooms as we move up from the village on the northern slope of the Pass prior to the descent on the Italian side to the village of Montespluga, where you can breathe in the atmosphere of times past.

Distance: 10 km

Elevation gain: +660/-250 m

Day 3: From Montespluga to Isola di Chiavenna, 9 km

From the village of Montespluga the route takes on the right side of the reservoir in order to reach one of the two dams and to appreciate some spectacular views over the Cardinello Gorge: this is one of the most dramatic sections guaranteed to linger long in the memory.

It’s a route which was not created without considerable exertions over the years, with the imposing rock faces to the left and up above and

the steep gorge plunging away to the right where the torrent itself courses. The descent requires a certain amount of caution but it’s not demanding and leads us gently towards the typical wooden mountain dwellings (baite) of Sosta, Mottaletta and finally to Isola.

Distance: 9 km

Elevation gain: +130/-770 m

Day 4: From Isola di Chiavenna to Campodolcino and bus to Chiavenna, 6 km

A section which is practically all downhill in nature, following the route of the Liro torrent and introducing the hiker to the joys of Val San Giacomo: we’re wandering along pathways between well-tended dry-stone wall and meadow, through chestnut groves and taking in places of considerable historical and religious interest.

From Campodolcino take the local bus to Chiavenna. Full of corners, narrow lanes and aging stone walls, Chiavenna is a beguiling spot, no matter how many times you meander through its charming historic centre. Be sure to cross the ancient bridge over the Mera and enjoy the storybook views of the town.

Distance: 6 km

Elevation gain: +85/-230 m

Day 5: Bus to Campodolcino and walk to Chiavenna, 13 km

In the morning a short bus ride will take you from Chiavenna to Campodolcino. We approach Chiavenna along a path with magnificent panorama over the length of Valchiavenna; from the age- old terraces hosting traditional vineyards you catch your first glimpse of a very special Alpine community, with its immaculately preserved historic centre.

Distance: 13 km

Elevation gain: +230/-1005 m

Day 6: Arrivederci Chiavenna!

The trip and our services end after breakfast and you bid farewell to the beautiful lakes as you depart for the airport with public transport, unless you have pre-booked a private transfer with us.

accommodation

Weiss Kreuz - Spluga

www.weiss-kreuz.ch

Albergo Vittoria - Montespluga

www.vittoriamontespluga.com

Locanda Cardinello - Isola di Chiavenna

www.locandacardinello.itwww.locandacardinello.it

Hotel San Lorenzo - Chiavenna

www.sanlorenzochiavenna.it

practical info

You can find more information in the "accommodation" section: we always select your accommodation for their character and comfort. You will always be booked in a private, en-suite room, with breakfast included.

Luggage transfer (max. 20 kg) from one hotel to the hotel is included in the price.

Thanks to our special APP, you will be able to follow the track of the whole trip on your mobile phone, with no need for internet. GPS tracks are available on request.

Included

What is included

5 Nights in double room in **/*** hotels , B&B with breakfast
luggage transportation from hotel to hotel
2 dinners
maps and detailed description of the itinerary
Medical and luggage travel insurance
24h phone assistance

What is not included

Transfers to the starting location and from the arriving location of the tour
lunches and dinners, if not otherwise stated
visits and entrance fees - tips
personal expense
possible sojourn taxes
everything that is not mentioned in the "What is included" section.

Optional Services

These services can be added to the ones included in the base price of the tour:

Single room supplement
cancellation insurance
Transfers to reach the starting location or to leave the arriving location of the tour, which will be quoted on request.

Is this trip for me?

A journey through the mountains on the border between Italy and Switzerland that concludes in Chiavenna, a beautiful town north of Lake Como.

This trip is suitable for those with prior experience in mountain travel: the altitudes - both uphill and downhill - can be quite challenging in some cases, requiring trained legs and sure-footedness. The terrain is at times unstable, and you'll walk on paths where it's important to watch out for protruding roots or stones that could hinder your progress. For this reason, it's not recommended for those without a particular sense of stability or prior experience in mountain travel.

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