Pizzo Stella Loop

The Pizzo Stella Loop starts at the Campodolcino Sports Centre, where runners can use free parking, a bar and changing rooms with showers before and after one of the most demanding experiences in the trail network.

From the Campodolcino Sports Centre, the route climbs towards Fraciscio, Gualdera, Bondeno and Avero along a mule track. From here, the trail becomes progressively steeper and more technical until Passo Avero, from where wide views open over Valchiavenna and Val Bregaglia.

The route continues towards Lake Acquafraggia and the mountain huts of Alpe Piangesca, before climbing to Passo di Lei, the highest point of the route. Just below the pass are Bivacco Chiara e Walter and several glacial lakes surrounded by large granite boulders.

A long descent leads into Val di Lei to the lake of the same name, crossing one of the wildest sections of the entire route. The trail then climbs towards Passo Angeloga, following several small lakes and Lago Nero before reaching Rifugio Chiavenna.

The final section of the route follows the trail towards Alpe Motta and continues along a panoramic traverse where chamois and ibex can be spotted. After passing near Lago Azzurro, the descent crosses Motta di Sotto and returns to Campodolcino.

The Pizzo Stella Loop is one of the most technical routes in the project developed with the contribution of Francesco Puppi. The collaboration with one of the leading figures in international trail running has helped enhance spectacular routes capable of providing high-level training in the heart of Valle Spluga.

Water points: Campodolcino, Fraciscio, Gualdera, Bondeno, Avero, Rifugio Chiavenna, Motta Alta and Motta di Sotto.

Note: the section between Avero and Rifugio Chiavenna (approximately 20 km) has no sources of drinking water. Water can be obtained from some streams along the route; using a water filter is recommended.