Attractions and Places To See around Mese - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Mese. Mese is a small, historically rich town located in the Valtellina area of Lombardy, Italy, within the Province of Sondrio, situated on the right bank of the Mera river. Its ancient origins are evidenced by an Iron Age necropolis and official documentation dating back to 1016. While Mese itself offers glimpses into its past through sites like the Church of San Vittore, its location in the broader Valtellina region provides access to natural beauty and cultural points of interest in nearby towns like Chiavenna.
Best attractions and places to see around Mese
- The most popular attractions is Savogno — Historic Village, a settlement that was an important transit point towards the Val di Lei. This village is known for its stone and wood houses with stone roofs, accessible via a long staircase.
- Another must-see spot is Porta di Santa Maria, Chiavenna, a historical site located in Chiavenna. This city gate, built in 1741, reflects the town's historical importance as a center of trade with central Europe.
- Visitors also love Cyclopedestrian Bridge over the Liro River, a bridge that offers views of the Liro River. It connects the center of Chiavenna with the Valchiavenna cycle path, which extends for more than 40 km.
- Mese is known for historical sites, natural monuments, and cycling routes. Visitors can explore ancient villages, impressive waterfalls, and historical town features.
- The attractions around Mese are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 160 upvotes and over 180 photos shared.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Savogno — Historic Village
Highlight • Settlement
The town was inhabited until the 1960s as an important transit point towards the Val di Lei, but with the progressive exodus towards the towns of the valley, it became almost uninhabited. Of the 400 original inhabitants, the last one abandoned the town in 1968. Currently, in addition to the managers of the refuge, only a few families return from time to time to their original home.
To reach Savogno there is no road, but a long staircase that climbs between the chestnut trees on the rugged side of the mountain. You go up for about ten minutes, always staying in the woods, in sight of the stream. A mule track then deviates towards the east and leads to a large, steeply sloping deforested space where minute vine terraces and meadows invaded by brambles surround numerous huts, partly built of wood. Traces of previous intensive agricultural use become increasingly evident as you climb the steep slope above the houses.
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Porta di Santa Maria, Chiavenna
Highlight • Historical Site
Located at the intersection of the Bergell and the Val San Giacomo, Chiavenna (formerly German Cläven, Kleven) is the center of the Valchiavenna, which together with the Valtellina makes up the present-day Italian province of Sondrio. Chiavenna, mentioned in the Itinerarium Antonini and in the Peutinger Table as Clavenna, was conquered by Augustus' troops in 16 BC and connected to Chur by two roads - one over the Splügen Pass, the other over the Septimer, Maloja and Julier Pass. The county probably came into being in the 10th century, at the beginning of the reign of Otto I, who in 960 assigned the Bergell from Villa upwards to the diocese of Chur and thus drew the border line between Italy and Switzerland that is still valid today.
Text / Source: Historical Dictionary of Switzerland (HLS)
hls-dhs-dss.ch/de/articles/007043/2015-05-07
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Acqua Fraggia Waterfalls
Highlight • Waterfall
valchiavenna.com/it/itinerari/Cascate-Acquafraggia.html
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Collegiate Church of St. Lawrence
Highlight • Religious Site
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Historic center of Chiavenna
Highlight • Historical Site
There are numerous loggias that overlook the Mera river and the architectural preciousness to be discovered wandering through the streets of the village; hidden courtyards and gardens such as the Córt di àsen represent characteristic corners that have remained intact over time.
An historic centre, dating back to the 16th century, already surrounded by Sforza walls, still partly visible, which bears witness to how rich and important Chiavenna was at the time of great trade with central Europe.
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Tips from the Community
A true insider tip! The guide who welcomes visitors is extremely friendly and competent. An absolute must when visiting Chiavenna. The flair of Chiavenna is wonderful.
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Beautiful campanile with a special baptistery and Romanesque baptismal font.
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Portone di Santa Maria, Chiavenna since 1741 City gate (Portone), which was built in 1741 in honor of the Graubünden commissioner Ercole Salis Text / Source: wikivoyage.org https://de.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Chiavenna
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Chiavenna Located at the intersection of the Bergell and the Val San Giacomo, Chiavenna (formerly German Cläven, Kleven) is the center of the Valchiavenna, which together with the Valtellina makes up the present-day Italian province of Sondrio. Chiavenna, mentioned in the Itinerarium Antonini and in the Peutinger Table as Clavenna, was conquered by Augustus' troops in 16 BC and connected to Chur by two roads - one over the Splügen Pass, the other over the Septimer, Maloja and Julier Pass. The county probably came into being in the 10th century, at the beginning of the reign of Otto I, who in 960 assigned the Bergell from Villa upwards to the diocese of Chur and thus drew the border line between Italy and Switzerland that is still valid today. Text / Source: Historical Dictionary of Switzerland (HLS) https://hls-dhs-dss.ch/de/articles/007043/2015-05-07/
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Collegiata San Lorenzo – Chiavenna The Collegiate Church of San Lorenzo It is believed that in the fifth century the first Christian church in Chiavenna was built in connection with the evangelization of the area, but it was not until the ninth century, with the organization of parish churches in Carolingian times, that a larger and more functional building was built. Already in 973 the church was dedicated to the protomartyr San Lorenzo. In 1042 it was mentioned in documents as a parish church and in 1098 it was called a basilica. The first priest appears in 992 and in 1016 he is called archpriest. Already in 1107 important extension works are documented on the church, which was restored in 1176 and 1179. At the turn of the twelfth and thirteenth centuries a pronaos appears in front of the main entrance. In 1172 the bell tower, which was located in front of the left aisle, is mentioned for the first time. It was rebuilt between 1597 and 1603 in front of the main gate. In 1537 the oak timber-framed roof burned down, so the following year the vaults were demolished and the building raised. In 1698-99 the portico was added to the façade, which until then had retained its original features, and was built to protect the cemetery, but also for processions and to house noble tombs. On the side facing the church, it is worth mentioning a high relief depicting the Pietà, made in soapstone in May 1433 by Guglielmo de Catello and coming from the church of San Bartolomeo. To allow passage through the portico, the octagonal Romanesque church that housed the baptismal font was destroyed and rebuilt in the same shape but higher and further back, thus reusing the old monolithic soapstone basin with sculptures dating back to 1156. Text / Source: Museo del Tesoro - Piazza Don Pietro Bormetti 3 - 23022 Chiavenna https://www.museodeltesorochiavenna.it/la-collegiata-di-san-lorenzo/
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Chiavenna is a particularly charming town - not only as a destination - the journey there is an experience
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The baptismal font is made from a soapstone basin.
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The Collegiate Church of San Lorenzo in Chiavenna is connected to the basilica of San Abbondio in Como along the Antica Via Regina.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Mese?
Mese itself has ancient origins, with the Church of San Vittore being a prominent historical site dating back to 1153. Nearby, you can visit the historic village of Savogno — Historic Village, known for its medieval stone and wood houses. In Chiavenna, don't miss the Porta di Santa Maria, Chiavenna, a city gate from 1741, and the ancient Collegiate Church of St. Lawrence.
Are there any natural attractions or viewpoints near Mese?
Absolutely. The stunning Acqua Fraggia Waterfalls in Borgonuovo offer impressive cascades and are a must-see natural monument. For scenic views, the historic village of Savogno — Historic Village provides suggestive vistas of the valley after a challenging climb. Additionally, the Cyclopedestrian Bridge over the Liro River offers beautiful views of the river itself.
What outdoor activities can I do around Mese?
The region around Mese is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy running on trails like the 'Chiavenna – Balbiani Palace loop' or 'Prosto Village and Clock Tower loop'. For mountain enthusiasts, there are challenging mountain hikes such as the 'Summit Cross of Sench di Dalò loop' or 'Lago Nero loop'. Cycling is also popular, with routes like the 'View of Lake Mezzola loop' and the 'Valchiavenna Cycle Path' accessible from Chiavenna. You can find more details on these activities in the Running Trails around Mese, Mountain Hikes around Mese, and Cycling around Mese guides.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Mese area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Porta di Santa Maria, Chiavenna and the Collegiate Church of St. Lawrence in Chiavenna are family-friendly historical sites. The impressive Acqua Fraggia Waterfalls are also a great natural spot for all ages. For a gentle stroll, the Cyclopedestrian Bridge over the Liro River connects to the Valchiavenna cycle path, which is suitable for walking and cycling with children.
What is the difficulty level of hiking trails near Mese?
Hiking trails around Mese vary in difficulty. You can find moderate running loops like 'Running loop from San Cassiano' (10.1 km) and more challenging mountain hikes such as the 'Summit Cross of Sench di Dalò loop' (3.4 km) or 'Lago Nero loop' (14.9 km), which are rated as difficult. It's advisable to check the specific route details in the Mountain Hikes around Mese guide for current conditions and precise difficulty ratings.
Can I find wheelchair-accessible attractions around Mese?
Yes, the Porta di Santa Maria, Chiavenna is noted as wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to experience this historical city gate. While Mese itself is a small town, nearby Chiavenna offers more accessible points of interest.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Mese?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical charm of places like Savogno — Historic Village, with its well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning views. The natural beauty of the Acqua Fraggia Waterfalls is also highly praised for its impressive cascades. The historical significance and beautiful architecture of sites in Chiavenna, such as the Collegiate Church of St. Lawrence, are also frequently highlighted by the komoot community.
Are there any cycling routes or paths near Mese?
Yes, the area is well-suited for cycling. The Cyclopedestrian Bridge over the Liro River connects to the Valchiavenna cycle path, which extends for over 40 km. This path offers a fascinating route from Colico to the Swiss border, passing through scenic spots like Chiavenna and the Acquafraggia waterfalls. You can find various cycling loops, including those around Chiavenna and towards Lake Mezzola, in the Cycling around Mese guide.
What is the historical significance of Mese and its surroundings?
Mese boasts very ancient origins, with evidence of an Iron Age necropolis and official documentation dating back to 1016. Its most prominent historical site is the Church of San Vittore. The broader Valchiavenna region, including nearby Chiavenna, was historically important as a trade center with central Europe, evidenced by sites like the Porta di Santa Maria, Chiavenna and the medieval origins of Savogno — Historic Village, which was a key transit point.
Are there any circular walks or loops for hiking near Mese?
Yes, several routes near Mese are designed as loops. For mountain hiking, you can find options like the 'Summit Cross of Sench di Dalò loop from Chiavenna' and the 'Lago Nero loop from San Giacomo Filippo'. Cycling also offers circular routes such as the 'View of Lake Mezzola loop from Chiavenna'. These loops provide convenient ways to explore the scenic landscapes and return to your starting point. More details are available in the Mountain Hikes around Mese and Cycling around Mese guides.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gem' attractions in the area?
While not strictly 'hidden,' the village of Savogno — Historic Village offers a unique experience. Accessible only by a long staircase, its preserved medieval character and isolation make it feel like stepping back in time. It's a challenging but rewarding visit for those seeking a deeper historical immersion away from more bustling spots.
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