Valtellina cycle route: stages, map, tips and GPX track

Route overview

The Valtellina cycle route connects Colico, on Lake Como, with Bormio in the Rhaetian Alps, following the River Adda for more than 110 km. Also known as the Sentiero Valtellina, it passes through farmland, vineyards, nature reserves and historic towns. The lower, flatter sections offer a gentler ride, while the final stage towards Bormio requires more climbing.

The surface combines tarmac and compact gravel. The route is signposted and largely follows paths away from traffic, with places to stop along the way. The four stages below provide a starting point for planning your trip; choose sections and daily distances to suit your fitness and experience.

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Stage 1: Colico – Morbegno (20 km)

Start in Colico, on the shores of Lake Como, near the Pian di Spagna nature reserve, an area known for its waterbirds.

The first stage explores the flat lower valley around Dubino, Delebio and Piantedo, before reaching Morbegno. Take time to visit its historic centre and try local cheeses such as Bitto.

Places of interest:

• Lake Como
• Pian di Spagna nature reserve
• Fuentes Fort
• Morbegno’s historic centre

Stage 2: Morbegno – Sondrio (26 km)

Continue through farmland and vineyards along the Adda, passing the areas around Talamona, Ardenno and Berbenno on the way to Sondrio.

This section involves relatively little climbing. In Sondrio, explore the historic centre or take a detour up to the Madonna della Sassella sanctuary, set among vineyards.

Places of interest:

• Farmland and vineyards
• Picnic areas at Cedrasco
• Sondrio’s historic centre
• Sassella’s vineyards and sanctuary

Stage 3: Sondrio – Tirano (31 km)

Ride through central Valtellina, among apple orchards and terraced vineyards, with villages such as Chiuro and Teglio to explore along the valley. The climbing increases slightly compared with the previous sections.

At Tirano, visit the Madonna di Tirano sanctuary and see the famous Bernina red train.

Places of interest:

• Teglio, known for its pizzoccheri pasta
• Local wineries
• Madonna di Tirano sanctuary
• The Bernina railway

Stage 4: Tirano – Bormio (37 km)

The final stage is the most demanding, with approximately 800 m of climbing. Head towards Grosio, where the rock engraving park and Grosio’s castles make worthwhile stops.

Continue through Sondalo towards the upper valley and Bormio, near Stelvio National Park. Bormio is known for its thermal baths and as a base for riding the Stelvio, Gavia and Mortirolo climbs.

Places of interest:

• Grosio rock engraving park
• Castello Nuovo and San Faustino Castle
• Upper Valtellina and the Stelvio National Park area
• Bormio’s thermal baths and historic centre

Practical tips

• Season: the Italian guide suggests April to October. Conditions vary with elevation, particularly towards Bormio, so check the weather and route conditions before setting off.
• Bike: a trekking bike, mountain bike or gravel bike is suitable for the mixed surfaces. A road bike needs tyres appropriate for the unpaved sections.
• Return journey: from Bormio, plan a bus connection to Tirano for onward rail travel. Check bicycle carriage arrangements with the transport operator before relying on this option.
• Services: rest areas and water fountains can be found along the route. Plan your stops and carry enough water for each stage.

From the lake to the mountains, the Valtellina cycle route combines landscapes, local food and historic towns in a trip you can adapt to your own pace.