The Via Bregaglia is an ancient trail that crosses the Val Bregaglia, a splendid Alpine valley located between Italy’s Lombardy region and Switzerland. The trail is approximately 38km and connects Chiavenna (Lombardy) to Maloja (Switzerland), allowing hikers to fully immerse themselves in breathtaking landscapes and picturesque villages.
In this short guide, we will tell you about some of the highlights along the way and give you some practical information to help you plan your adventure. Andiamo!
General Information and Trail Segments
- Difficulty: Medium
- Distance: 34km (21 miles)
- Duration: 11 hours (if divided into 3 or 4 segments)
- Altitude difference: 580 m (1,980 ft) uphill; 2,070 m (6,790 ft) downhill
- Highest point: 1,815 m (5,954 ft) -Maloja
- Lowest point: 333 m (1,092 ft) -Chiavenna
The Via Bregaglia trail can be divided into multiple segments based on the hikers’ time, experience, and interest.
Segment 1: Chiavenna – Villa di Chiavenna (4 km/ 2.5 mi)
Don’t miss:
Acqua Fraggia Waterfall: This waterfall is located near Piuro. It is the highest waterfall in Val Bregaglia.
Segment 2: Villa di Chiavenna – Soglio (9,4 km/ 5,8 mi)
Don’t miss:
The “Castagneto” trail in Brentan with its centuries-old trees is one of the largest chestnut groves in Europe.
Segment 3: Soglio – Borgonovo (8 km/ 5 mi)
Don’t miss:
Castelmur, a medieval castle and museum near Stampa that relays the fascinating history of the area.
Segment 4: Borgonovo – Vicosoprano (1,5 km/ 1 mi)
Don’t miss:
Panoramic view of the Sciora group and Pizzo Badile mountains from the “La Plotta” trail.
Segment 5: Vicosoprano – Casaccia (4 km/ 2.5 mi)
Don’t miss:
The ancient church of San Cassiano in Vicosoprano dating to the year 1,000 AD.
Segment 6: Casaccia – Maloja (4 km/ 2.5 mi)
Don’t miss:
The ruins of the ancient San Gaudenzio Church in Casaccia.
How to Get There
- By train: The nearest train station is Chiavenna, reachable from Milan and Tirano.
- By bus: There are buses that connect Chiavenna to Maloja.
- By car: It is possible to reach Chiavenna by car from Milan, Como and Tirano.
Tips
- The best time to hike the Via Bregaglia is from June to September.
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes and bring water and food with you.
- Along the trail, there are several refuges and accommodations where you can stay overnight. Book in advance if possible.
- Check weather conditions before leaving.
More Information
- On the Val Bregaglia official website: https://www.bregaglia.ch/it/
The Via Bregaglia is an ideal hiking experience for nature lovers. Breathtaking mountain views and villages that seem to be suspended in time and air await you. If you are looking for an unforgettable trekking experience, the Via Bregaglia is the perfect choice.
