VALCHIAVENNA
Chiavenna is much more than an Alpine town: it is a certified Cittaslow destination and holder of the Touring Club Italiano Orange Flag, recognitions that highlight the quality of hospitality, authenticity and its commitment to slow and sustainable tourism. Walking through its streets means discovering a town characterised by soapstone streets, frescoed façades, fountains and historic gateways that tell centuries of history.
The historic centre is best explored slowly, following routes that lead from the bridge over the Mera River to the main squares such as Piazza Castello and Piazza Pestalozzi, through narrow streets, courtyards and passageways rich in historical and architectural value. The pedestrian area is enhanced by historic buildings, churches such as the Collegiate Church of San Lorenzo with its Treasure Museum, remains of the Sforza walls and the widespread use of soapstone, a defining element of the town’s identity.
The idea of slow tourism is also reflected in the relationship with nature and gastronomy. Chiavenna is a starting point for historic paths, hiking trails and excursions into the surrounding valleys, offering experiences closely connected to the landscape. In the traditional crotti and historic restaurants, visitors can taste local specialities such as Violino di Capra, recognised by Slow Food, together with brisaola, local cheeses, polenta taragna, traditional gnocchetti and artisan desserts that express the valley’s culinary culture.
Thanks to its strategic location and lively atmosphere, Chiavenna is a destination suitable in every season, combining art, nature, traditions and quality of life in an authentic Alpine setting.
Consorzio Turistico Valchiavenna
Piazza Caduti per la Libertà, 3
23022 Chiavenna (SO), Italy
+39 0343 37485
consorzioturistico@valchiavenna.com
Opening hours : Mon/Sat 9:00-12:40 / 14:00-18:00
VALCHIAVENNA
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Chiavenna, the historic town of Valchiavenna
Walking through Chiavenna’s historic centre means exploring an urban landscape shaped by centuries of architectural and historical layers. Decorated façades, fountains and soapstone portals, often adorned with floral and geometric motifs, define the visual identity of the town and reflect a deeply rooted local craft tradition. Much of the centre developed from the 16th century […]
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Valchiavenna
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our region
01Chiavenna
Chiavenna is much more than an Alpine town: it is a certified Cittaslow destination and holder of the Touring Club Italiano Orange Flag, recognitions that highlight the quality of hospitality, authenticity and its commitment to slow and sustainable tourism. Walking through its streets means discovering a town characterised by soapstone streets, frescoed façades, fountains and historic gateways that tell centuries of history.
Chiavenna is much more than an Alpine town: it is a certified Cittaslow destination and holder of the Touring Club Italiano Orange Flag, recognitions that highlight the quality of hospitality, authenticity and its commitment to slow and sustainable tourism. Walking through its streets means discovering a town characterised by soapstone streets, frescoed façades, fountains and historic gateways that tell centuries of history.
02Valle Spluga
Valle Spluga is an Alpine valley stretching from Chiavenna to the Swiss border and reaching the Splügen Pass at around 2,114 metres above sea level, a historic connection route between Italy and Switzerland. The valley takes its name from the pass itself, which for centuries represented a strategic communication route and a true Alpine gateway between Lombardy and regions beyond the Alps. The ancient viaSpluga route still connects Chiavenna with Switzerland through a historic and scenic itinerary following the paths once used by merchants, travellers and Alpine communities.
Valle Spluga is an Alpine valley stretching from Chiavenna to the Swiss border and reaching the Splügen Pass at around 2,114 metres above sea level, a historic connection route between Italy and Switzerland. The valley takes its name from the pass itself, which for centuries represented a strategic communication route and a true Alpine gateway between Lombardy and regions beyond the Alps. The ancient viaSpluga route still connects Chiavenna with Switzerland through a historic and scenic itinerary following the paths once used by merchants, travellers and Alpine communities.
03Val Bregaglia
Val Bregaglia is an Alpine valley divided between two countries: its lower section belongs to Italy, including the municipalities of Piuro and Villa di Chiavenna, while the larger part extends into Switzerland up to the Maloja Pass. This cross-border character makes the valley a natural and cultural link between Italy and the Canton of Graubünden, allowing visitors to move through different traditions and landscapes within the same valley.
Val Bregaglia is an Alpine valley divided between two countries: its lower section belongs to Italy, including the municipalities of Piuro and Villa di Chiavenna, while the larger part extends into Switzerland up to the Maloja Pass. This cross-border character makes the valley a natural and cultural link between Italy and the Canton of Graubünden, allowing visitors to move through different traditions and landscapes within the same valley.
04Lower Valchiavenna
Lower Valchiavenna represents the agricultural and rural heart of the valley, a territory shaped by cultivated fields, mountain pastures and traditions that are still deeply rooted in local life. Here the mountains open into wide green areas, small villages, cycling routes and a network of trails leading towards some of the most fascinating and unspoilt valleys of the region.
Lower Valchiavenna represents the agricultural and rural heart of the valley, a territory shaped by cultivated fields, mountain pastures and traditions that are still deeply rooted in local life. Here the mountains open into wide green areas, small villages, cycling routes and a network of trails leading towards some of the most fascinating and unspoilt valleys of the region.
05Lakes and surrounding areas
Lake Mezzola, in the heart of Valchiavenna, is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travellers seeking nature, tranquillity and scenic landscapes. Its emerald-green waters and the surrounding natural environment create the perfect setting for a relaxing holiday in close contact with nature.
Lake Mezzola, in the heart of Valchiavenna, is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travellers seeking nature, tranquillity and scenic landscapes. Its emerald-green waters and the surrounding natural environment create the perfect setting for a relaxing holiday in close contact with nature.
