ViaSpluga Between Valchiavenna and Switzerland

The ViaSpluga follows an ancient communication route that has been used since Roman times to cross the Alps and connect Northern Europe with Italy. Today, the trail still preserves much of its original character, following historic mule tracks, alpine roads and paths shaped over centuries by merchants, pilgrims and travellers.

The route stretches between Switzerland and Valchiavenna, passing through a wide variety of environments. From the dramatic Viamala Gorge to the alpine scenery of the Splügen Pass and the descent towards Chiavenna, hikers experience a constantly changing landscape of mountains, waterways, pastures and small settlements.

One of the most significant points along the route is the Splügen Pass, located at over 2,100 metres above sea level. For centuries, this mountain pass has been one of the main crossings through the Central Alps and still preserves historic evidence of alpine transport routes, including the nineteenth-century avalanche gallery built along the Splügen road.

On the Italian side, the ViaSpluga passes through villages such as Montespluga, Isola and Campodolcino, following Valle Spluga down to Chiavenna. Along this section, the landscape gradually changes from high-altitude alpine environments to greener valley settings with forests, meadows and historical traces of mountain life.

The ViaSpluga is not only a hiking route but also a cultural journey that tells the story of trade and travel across the Alps. For centuries, caravans, pack animals and merchants crossed these mountain roads, transporting goods between the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.

Today, the trail is divided into several stages and can be completed either in its entirety or through selected sections. Organised trekking packages are available and may include accommodation, luggage transport, informational material and logistical support, allowing visitors to enjoy the journey comfortably and fully immersed in the landscape. Signposted routes, accommodation facilities and services along the way make the ViaSpluga suitable for both experienced hikers and those approaching alpine long-distance trails for the first time.

Combining high-altitude scenery, alpine history and dedicated trekking services, the ViaSpluga offers one of the most complete ways to discover Valchiavenna and the Alps. Walking the ViaSpluga means travelling along one of Europe’s oldest alpine corridors, following a route where history, nature and culture continue to coexist along paths that tell the story of the connection between Valchiavenna and the wider Alpine world.