Valchiavenna
The walk aims for the refuge opened by the CAI of Barzanò in 2001. In memory of Luigi Viganò, the mountaineer who passed away in 1994 while climbing the North face of Pizzo di Prata.
The commitment of the CAI members, with the support of the Prata Camportaccio Forest Consortium, gave life to a welcoming and well-organized building, to which many have attached affection and personal memories.
For those wanting to reach this destination, there are two very beautiful routes that develop on the two sides of Val Schiesone.
From Chiavenna, the path leads to Dona – Prata Camportaccio (450 m).
From here, you climb towards Lottano (654 m), extending the step towards the village of Nirola (900 m) and Pradotti (1050 m). At this point, the path turns right, heading to the heart of the valley. You need to walk about another hour to reach the 1322 meters of the Refuge.
Alternatively, also from Dona, you immediately take the left orographic side (back to the mountain) and reach the first cluster, Stoveno (700 m). The path climbs towards Pradella (999 m), from where you then ascend to the refuge. The beauty of this walk lies in the magnificent scenery offered by the northern face of Pizzo di Prata (2727 m) and the many views it offers along the route.
Fascinating and enchanting, the ascent to Rifugio Il Biondo is a beautiful experience, to be enjoyed on a sunny summer day.
Difficulty: Medium
Duration: 4:05 h
Distance: 6,8 km
Ascent: 1113 mt
Descent: 128 mt
Highest point: 1355 mt
Lowest point: 320 mt
Best time of year:
Public transport: Chiavenna is reachable by train (Trenord Line Colico – Chiavenna), by STPS bus from Sondrio, or from Switzerland by Autopostale (line St. Moritz – Chiavenna).
Getting there: By car, it is possible to reach Chiavenna from the south via the S.S.36 (Milan – Lecco – Colico) and from Como via S.S.340 Regina; from the north from Passo Spluga (winter closure) and from the Maloja pass via S.S. 37.
Parking: Large and free parking on via Principe Amedeo, Chiavenna (behind the railway station).
Starting point: get directions in Google Maps
Piazza Caduti per la Libertà, 4
23022 Chiavenna (SO)
0343 37485
consorzioturistico@valchiavenna.com
Hotel
Comfortable stays in the heart of Valchiavenna, combining hospitality, services and Alpine landscapes to experience in every season.
Bed & breakfast
Small properties and welcoming atmospheres to experience Valchiavenna simply, with authentic hospitality and a strong connection to the local area.
Holiday homes
Independent accommodation solutions to feel at home even on holiday and discover Valchiavenna at your own pace.
Mountain huts and campsites
Hospitality immersed in nature, among local traditions, mountain life and the pleasure of experiencing the area more closely.








