Valchiavenna gravel ride: map and GPX track
Route information
- Region / area
- Lombardia
- Province / area
- Sondrio
- Country
- Italy
- GPX starting point
- Lat. 46.21002, lon. 9.45240
- Track length
- Approximately 72.3 km
- Estimated ascent
- 1,040 m
- Estimated descent
- 1,040 m
- Minimum GPX elevation
- 199 m
- Maximum GPX elevation
- 945 m
Distance and elevation are estimates from the GPX and may differ from GPS-device calculations.
The original ride heading gives 73.91 km and 1,225 m of ascent. The GPX estimates above provide a separate calculation; the former FAQ’s generic 40–50 km answer did not describe this track and has been corrected.
Valchiavenna combines gravel roads and mixed trails with waterfalls, small historic settlements and Alpine views.
Starting at Lake Novate Mezzola
The account starts beside Lake Novate Mezzola, climbing towards the first hills and views across the valley.
Acquafraggia waterfalls
The Acquafraggia waterfalls at Borgonuovo di Piuro are a striking landmark, visible even from the road, and a natural place for a photographic stop. The original notes mention summer picnic and relaxation facilities; check the actual arrangements during your visit.
Gravel roads and mixed trails
The route description includes compact gravel, mule tracks and minor tarmac roads through woods and hamlets. It also mentions more technical alternatives towards quieter viewpoints; these are not automatically equivalent to the supplied GPX.
Villages on the return
The final part of the description passes places such as Prosto and Mese, with stone houses and mountain views, and describes returning towards Chiavenna. Follow the actual mapped track for its start and finish rather than assuming that every named place is the start point.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the route?
The contributor’s heading gives 73.91 km, not the previous generic 40–50 km. Refer to the GPX estimate above for the available track; variants have different distances.
Is it suitable for beginners?
The route includes mixed surfaces, climbing and possible technical sections. The former blanket beginner recommendation was not an assessment of every section. Examine the track and choose according to your fitness and skills.
Where are the waterfalls?
At Borgonuovo di Piuro, near Chiavenna.
Can it be ridden on a mountain bike?
The original notes also propose an MTB. Bike choice still depends on the particular sections and alternatives you intend to ride.
Is water available?
The contributor mentions fountains in settlements including Chiavenna, Piuro and Mese. Availability is not guaranteed; plan water supplies for the day.
Nearby routes
Other routes whose starting points are near this route. This does not imply similar difficulty or terrain.