Snowshoe Trails
In recent years snowshoes have sparked a new interest for both sporting enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike. In response, Madesimo has created two excellent trails which are indicated by the use of bright poles. It’s an easy outing and not demanding in the least.
It is necessary to have Artva, shovel and snow probe, to guarantee a suitable rescue intervention
Madesimo Trails
Altitude Change: about 200 meters.
Difficulty: easy, suitable for beginners
Departure & Arrival (3 different points): Via Enrico Masserini, Via Duilio Brenta and the Walk Along the River
Route Description: No matter where you begin, the trail climbs gradually from Madesimo towards Alpe Andossi, initially in woodland, then along a sun-kissed plateau. If you make it to Mottaccio the track heads back down to Madesimo along a series of gentle turns.
Isola Trails
Altitude Change: about 250 meters.
Difficulty: medium
Departure & Arrival: Via Baldiscio – San Martino Church
Route Description: The trail climbs pretty quickly following the old mule-track towards the Baldiscio pass, takes a wide circular route varying from level stretches to climbs and descents in the Ca Raseri area. It then goes down into woodland back to the village, from where you can enjoy splendid views of the historic Via Spluga.
Alpine Guides & Equipment Rentals
Alpine Guides
For more experienced walkers there are some fascinating alternative routes to be undertaken with a local Alpine guide:
Moreno Pedroncelli
Cell. +39 333 3988552
morenope@libero.it
Pio Guanella
Cell. +39 335 6694432
pioluigi.guanella@gmail.com
Equipment Rental
In the center of town it is possible to rent equipment for skis, snowboards, freerides, bobsleighs, and snowshoes at the following locations:
Buzzetti Sport
In the heart of Madesimo, Buzzetti Sport store offers sportswear and footwear of selected brands and the most complete equipment for skiing and outdoor.
The ski rental boasts a wide range of skis and snowboards and also offers safekeeping services in individual heated lockers and ski-service, with state-of-the-art automated machinery
Via Carducci, 1
23024 Madesimo (SO)
Tel. +39 0343 53698
BuzzettiSport.com
Sport Deghi
Sport Deghi rental is perfect for those who love convenience, located near the Arlecchino bunny slope, offering a wide range of skis and snowboards.
At Sport Deghi you can also store your skis and boots in their comfortable and heated lockers.
In addition to skiing equipment, you can rent deckchairs, bobsleighs, sleds, and snowshoes for those who love walking in fresh snow. If you have forgotten gloves, goggles, or other accessories, you can visit the small but well-stocked shop next to the rental and choose from a vast assortment of products. Ski mountaineering equipment is also available for rental, such as skis, boots, skins, ARTVA, shovels, and avalanche probe.
Via Emet, 2
23024 Madesimo (SO)
Tel. +39 0343 55925
DeghiSport.it
Pedro Ski Center
Ski, snowboard, freestyle ski, fat ski, and snowshoes can be rented or repaired at the Pedro Ski Center. Located at 50 meters from the “Madesimo-Larici” cable car and with parking in front. The shop is managed by expert ski instructors.
Via Alla fonte, 3
23024 Madesimo (SO)
Tel. +39 347 8941086
NoleggioSciMadesimo.it
Winter Walks
Delightful outings in snow-covered woodland along well-trodden paths or better still – on fresh snow across the vallies and plateaus. Winter walks are the perfect way to experience nature and appreciate the magical ambience of Madesimo in winter.
Walk Along the River
Departure: Madesimo – anywhere along the river
Arrival: valley bottom / Alpe Macolini (1,656 meters)
Altitude Change: around 100 meters
This pleasant walk begins on the gangway along both sides of the artificial basin situated just as you arrive in Madesimo, it crosses the length of the little town and continues along the valley bottom always skirting the course of the Scalcoggia stream. It’s an outing strictly reserved for walkers along an easy route either on the level or with very gentle climbs. The first section as far as the Dogana Vegia (around 2 km.) is also suitable for evening strolls as it’s illuminated; from here the walker might head on to Alpe Macolini along a well-trodden path that follows the paved road in summertime.
From the end of the valley bottom you can enjoy some splendid panorama taking in the ski slopes, get a different perspective of Madesimo itself, Alpe Motta and the Santuario di Nostra Signora d’Europa (a magnificent 15m high statue depicting The Virgin Mary, positioned on Alpe Motta). An alternative on this particular outing is to leave the Dogana Vegia quarter and move through the area occupied by a small clutch of mountain dwellings (baite) known as “Zerbi”, and then rejoin the road further downstream (“La Strecia” walk).
Andossi Outing
Departure: Walk Along the River / “Ponte Romano” area
Arrival: locality of Mottaccio (1,706 meters)
Altitude Change: around 150 meters
This walk branches off from the “Walk Along the River” (see above) once you reach the so-called “Ponte Romano.” Once across the bridge, climb following the signposts for “Bicycle Pathways for Andossi.” Continue along the path that crosses the Andossi on the right flank of the Valle Scalcoggia until you reach the southern end represented by Mottaccio (about an hour’s walk). Look out for Andossi’s collection of mountain dwellings, the pretty little San Rocco church and some excellent spots to eat, drink and relax.
The Road to Motta
Departure: Via Per Motta
Arrival: locality of Motta (1,720 meters)
Altitude Change: around 200 meters
An enjoyable outing which will take you from Madesimo to the village of Motta (a hamlet forming part of Campodolcino municipality). The route will take you along the road through a beautiful larch forest. Motta hosts bars, restaurants and pizzeria positioned directly on the ski slopes, as well as a ring of around 5 km for cross country skiing. From Motta you can proceed to the Lago Azzurro representing a further 1.8 km and a height differential of 140 meters.
The Old Road to Pianazzo
Departure: locality of Scalcoggia, to the left of the entry to the tunnel
Arrival: Pianazzo (1,400 meters)
Altitude Change: circa 150 meters. downhill
Lenght: around 1.3 km
The walk heads off from Madesimo to Pianazzo, along the old road which was once used by vehicles. After the opening of the tunnel (1974) it became a thoroughfare reserved exclusively for pedestrians. It’s a gentle walk, suitable even for walkers with pushchairs and is illuminated at night. Along the way you can enjoy the sight of two waterfalls:
“Cascata del Catino” – a waterfall with a drop of around 100 meters, fed by the waters of the Scalcoggia stream. The name derives from the shape adopted by the rock following the erosion process.
“Cascata di Pianazzo” – with a drop of 180 meters it’s the highest waterfall in Valchiavenna and is also fed by the Scalcoggia stream. The end of the walk is actually the viewing point of the waterfall.
In wintertime in high season there is a bus shuttle service from Madesimo to Pianazzo and back.
