8 Things to Do in Valtellina in Autumn

A vacation among nature, history, and traditions: we propose a travel idea focused on Chiavenna and Morbegno, but it also includes other noteworthy stops!

With its breathtaking landscapes and numerous beauties to discover, Valtellina is the perfect destination for a refreshing vacation. It is located in the northern part of Lombardy, on the border between Italy and the Swiss canton of Graubünden. It comprises two wide river valleys: that of the Adda, corresponding to Bormio, and that of the Liro and Mera, which is identified with Valchiavenna. Whether it's a long weekend or a few extra days, this place offers great emotions in all seasons. Visiting Valtellina in autumn is a magnificent idea: the temperature is perfect, and nature enchants with its colors and magic.

So, we want to suggest a travel idea: the two main stops are Chiavenna and Morbegno, particularly lively towns right in autumn. But the surroundings also deserve a visit, we assure you. Here are 8 things to do in this area of Valtellina. In a short time, your eyes will be filled with wonders!

Let's start with a visit to Chiavenna, located between the two slopes of the Val Bregaglia. Recognized with an orange flag by the Italian Touring Club, it's a small town that offers great surprises. Among the places to visit, we first highlight the Collegiate Church of St. Lawrence, featuring a portico from the 1600s, a 16th-century bell tower, and a baptistery with a baptismal font from 1156. Inside is the Chiavenna Treasure Museum, which houses numerous precious works, including the Peace of Chiavenna, an important example of medieval goldsmithing, and the painting of the Marriage of St. Catherine.

A stroll through the historic center is a must: crossing the bridge over the Mera offers a magnificent view. Chiavenna also has several historic buildings, including the palace of the Counts Balbiani, Palazzo Salis, Palazzo Pestalozzi, and the Pretorio.

In the first ten days of September, there is a not-to-be-missed event: the festival of crotti. Music, parades, games, events, and a lot of good food. This is the perfect opportunity, for example, to try the famous gnocchetti from Chiavenna, the bresaola from Valchiavenna, meat and vegetables cooked on a stone slab, the small cookies from Prosto, and the torta fioretto.

About 3 miles from Chiavenna lies the Paradiso Botanical-Archaeological Park, established in 1955 and consisting of two rocky outcrops, the "Paradiso" and the "Castellaccio": from there, an incredible view opens up. Part of the natural reserve of Marmitte dei Giganti, the park hosts numerous varieties of flowers and plants, including rare and exotic ones. During the visit, it is also possible to observe geomorphological features from prehistory, remnants of old walls and the fortress, as well as various artistic and architectural artifacts made of soapstone. The Torrione houses the natural history section of the Valchiavenna Museum.

Don't miss the Acquafraggia Falls, also a short distance from Chiavenna, in Borgonovo di Piuro. A series of waterfalls originating from rugged rocks and a double final drop, all amidst lush and majestic nature: even Leonardo da Vinci was impressed by this spectacle. Moreover, several hiking trails start from the falls; the main one is the ancient mule track leading to the village of Savogno, now abandoned and therefore even more evocative.

Among the things to do in Valtellina in autumn, it is mandatory to visit Palazzo Vertemate Franchi. It is located in Prosto di Piuro, just two kilometers from Chiavenna. Built in the second half of the 16th century by brothers Guglielmo and Luigi Vertemate Franchi, it survived the terrible landslide of 1618 that practically buried the town. Crossing the threshold, you can admire frescoed walls and ceilings - including mythological scenes inspired by Ovid's Metamorphoses - as well as inlaid stües. The building is surrounded by a picturesque Italian garden with a fish pond and a double exedra balustrade; just beyond lie the orchard, vineyard, chestnut grove, and vegetable garden. A paradise.

These places are so close together that they can be visited in just a couple of days, which is a significant advantage. Thus, the journey in Valtellina in autumn continues with a ferry trip on Lake Mezzola, located north of Lake Como. The mountains reflecting in its waters, the lush vegetation, that pure air: it's a true oasis of peace and relaxation. We are in the heart of the natural reserve Pian di Spagna; after the trip, it is possible to walk one of the many trails leading to nearby towns.

Right on the shores of Lake Mezzola, near the course of the Mera River, is the little temple of San Fedelino. Among the most precious examples of romantic art in Lombardy, it is a small square nave completed by an apse. A small building rich in history: it dates back to the end of the 10th century. Externally, the church is decorated with blind arches and tufaceous pilasters; it is said that the image of St. Christopher was once depicted on its walls. Inside, you can admire the frescoes that have withstood the test of time. In the apse, there is a majestic image of Christ Pantocrator holding an open book, flanked by two adoring angels, and further below, the twelve apostles are visible.

The visit in Valtellina in autumn continues to Morbegno, which is about 25 miles from Chiavenna. Among the places to visit, we highlight the Civic Museum of Natural History, the Collegiate Church of St. John the Baptist, the deconsecrated Church of St. Anthony (now an auditorium), the Sanctuary of the Assumption, and Palazzo Malacrida, dating back to the 18th century: it is thrilling to walk up the frescoed grand staircase to reach the main floor, where there is also the sumptuous ballroom decorated with period stuccoes. The historic center of the town, with its alleys and small squares, comes alive even more in September and October with the now-famous event Morbegno in Cantina: with wine tastings and samples of local products, there's truly much fun to be had.

To end on a high note, the Bridge in the Sky: at 140 meters high and 234 meters long, it is among the highest in Europe. It connects the two sides of Val Tartano and is made of 700 larch wood planks. It overlooks the Tartano stream and is surrounded by high mountains. The view from up there is an unforgettable spectacle. Adrenaline guaranteed, you have to try it to believe it. Children can also walk on it. And this is also a great opportunity for hiking in the surroundings.