Chiavenna at a glance
Chiavenna and its valley, the Valchiavenna, are a separate part of the region around Valtellina. Local tourism sources divide it into Chiavenna itself, the Valle Spluga with Madesimo, and the Val Bregaglia. It is not on the Bernina line, so plan it as its own day or as part of a longer stay, not as a stop between Tirano and Switzerland.
Many travelers pair the valley with a stay on the lake. For that side of the trip, see Lake Como.
Crotti: the natural cellars
A local feature found in the Valchiavenna.
What they are
Crotti are natural hollows in the rock. A cool airflow called "Sorel" runs through them. Traditionally people stored wine, cured meats and cheese in them.
What you can expect
Some crotti now work as restaurants. Not every crotto is open to the public, and not at every time. Ask before you walk up, and check the hours of the place you want.
What to pair them with
The valley's cellars fit with the wines of the main valley. See the wine guide and the food guide.
Day trips in Valtellina and the Valchiavenna
Tours and excursions around Valtellina, with live prices and availability.
Three parts of one area
What each part is known for, in this guide.
| Part | Known for | Season |
|---|---|---|
| Chiavenna | The crotti, the natural rock cellars | Check each place |
| Val Bregaglia | The Acquafraggia waterfall park | Summer fee rule in 2026 |
| Valle Spluga | Madesimo and the ski area | Winter 2026/27, to 4 April 2027 |
A day here can combine the first two in summer. The third is a winter trip. Do not squeeze all three into one visit.
The Acquafraggia waterfalls
The local portal places the Acquafraggia falls in the Val Bregaglia part of the area. A waterfall park with viewpoints surrounds them, and the falls can be seen from the road.
The summer 2026 rule charged €3 for access. Entry was free for residents of the Valchiavenna, people with disabilities, people over 75 and children under 5. There is no general free entry for all children. The fee applied from 08:30 to 18:30 on these days:
- 30 and 31 May 2026
- weekends and holidays from 1 June to 19 July 2026
- every day from 25 July to 31 August 2026
- weekends and holidays from 1 to 13 September 2026
That is the summer rule. For other dates, ask locally and do not assume the park is closed.
Madesimo and the Valchiavenna ski area
The Valle Spluga is the ski side of the area.
Closed parts of the area
For 2026/27 the operator lists Caurga, Caurga 2 and Reno Val di Lei as closed for the season. Earlier figures for the whole area therefore overstate the runs you can use.
Hours and season
Announced hours are 09:00 to 16:30 on weekdays and 08:30 to 16:30 on weekends and holiday periods. The season is announced to end on 4 April 2027.
Compare areas
See the ski area guide for Bormio, Livigno, Aprica and the others, with prices and dates for 2026/27.
Chiavenna: frequently asked questions
What is a crotto?
A crotto is a natural hollow in the rock with a cool airflow called Sorel. People traditionally used crotti to store wine, cured meats and cheese. Today some serve as restaurants.
Can I visit every crotto?
No. Not every crotto is open to the public at all times. Check the hours of the one you want before you go.
Do I pay to see the Acquafraggia falls?
In summer 2026 access cost €3 during announced fee hours. It was free for residents of the Valchiavenna, people with disabilities, people over 75 and children under 5.
Is Madesimo open for skiing in 2026/27?
The season is announced to run until 4 April 2027, with Caurga, Caurga 2 and Reno Val di Lei closed for the season. Check opening dates and conditions before you travel.
Is Chiavenna on the Bernina Express line?
No. The Bernina line starts in Tirano. Chiavenna is a separate trip. See the Bernina Express guide for the train route.