The best running trails around Chiavenna
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Jogging around Chiavenna offers diverse landscapes in the Lombardy region, near the Swiss border. The area, known as Valchiavenna, features Alpine mountains, deep valleys, and unique geomorphological characteristics shaped by glacial action. Runners can explore routes alongside natural features such as the Acqua Fraggia Waterfalls and the Parco delle Marmitte dei Giganti, providing varied terrain for different fitness levels. The region's network of trails includes paths through wetlands, ancient cobbled roads, and mountain tracks.
Best jogging routes around Chiavenna
- The most popular jogging route is Chiavenna – Balbiani Palace loop from Chiavenna, a 10.4 miles (16.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 53 minutes to complete. This difficult route explores the local area, passing the historic Balbiani Palace.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Prosto Village and Clock Tower loop from Chiavenna, a difficult 4.3 miles (7.0 km) path. This route features significant elevation gain as it winds through Prosto Village and past its clock tower.
- Local runners also love the Clock Tower of Chiavenna – Grotto Belvedere loop from Chiavenna, a 7.0 miles (11.3 km) trail leading through the local landscape, often completed in about 1 hour 14 minutes.
- Jogging around Chiavenna is defined by Alpine mountains, glacial formations, and waterfalls, with routes ranging from easy valley paths to challenging mountain tracks. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate to difficult.
- The routes in Chiavenna are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.75 stars from over 4 reviews. More than 300 runners have used komoot to explore Chiavenna's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
57
runners
11.0km
01:10
130m
130m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
runners
12.6km
01:37
440m
440m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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6
runners
7.19km
01:23
570m
570m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
11
runners
11.3km
01:11
130m
130m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
runners
13.0km
02:15
690m
690m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Tips from the Community
Savogno is something special. The old mountain village can only be reached on foot and exudes a wonderful tranquility. We felt very comfortable as overnight guests at the Rifugio Savogno.
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Well worth a visit is ‘Il Castello’, once the seat of the Balbiani counts, former feudal lords of Chiavenna. The historic Palazzo Balbiani dates back pre–1477, but all that remains from the original architecture is façade and two towers after the rest was demolished during the occupation of the Grisons and reconstructed in 1930. (c) https://www.valtellina.it/en/tourist-activities/historic-palaces/chiavenna-e-dintorni
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Beautiful view of the Mera from the bridge.
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Beautiful park, with a beautiful view of the city and lots of interesting information about the history of the park. 3€ for adults
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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 Chiavenna was already a town in 1030. In the 12th century, it cleverly used its friendship with Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa to negotiate benefits and privileges for itself. Chiavenna was also the place where the emperor asked his cousin Henry the Lion, Duke of Bavaria and Saxony, for military help before the Battle of Legnano, but to no avail. During this time, the Bishop of Chur first claimed the area around Chiavenna, which was under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of Como, and in 1178 advanced over the Alps to Plurs. In 1335, Chiavenna and the territory of the Diocese of Como passed to the Visconti of Milan. Emperor Ludwig the Bavarian and ten years later King Charles IV decreed that the County of Chiavenna should be under the jurisdiction of the Bishop of Chur, but their order was ineffective. Throughout the 15th century, the valleys of Chiavenna were the fiefdom of the Balbiani from Varenna. In 1477, the nearby municipality of Plurs paid the ground rents that they had to pay to the Lords of Werdenberg-Sargans for the pastures in the Valle di Lei. In June 1486, an army of Graubünden took advantage of Pope Innocent VIII's call to fight the Sforza, who had replaced the Visconti in Milan, to advance into the Val San Giacomo and as far as Plurs. They only retreated after Chiavenna had been set on fire and livestock and farm equipment had been captured. In mid-February 1487, 600 Graubünden troops again tried to advance from the Splügen Pass and from Bergell, as well as from Piattamala in the Valtellina; they were repulsed. However, they managed to break through from Livigno, defeating the Valtellina at Sondrio. Then Louis the Moor, Duke of Milan, rushed to help and had fortification walls built around Chiavenna and the main centres of the Valtellina. They were built between 1488 and 1492 with financial help from the various municipalities of the county, but were no longer needed by 1512 when, after twelve years of French rule, Chiavenna and the valley were annexed by the Three Leagues: while the Swiss cantons supported Pope Julius II and the Holy League, the army of the Church League under Conrad von Planta attacked Chiavenna on 22 May 1512; the other two leagues advanced into the Valtellina. Text / Source: Historical Dictionary of Switzerland (HLS) https://hls-dhs-dss.ch/de/articles/007043/2015-05-07/
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Chiavenna?
There are over 20 running routes around Chiavenna, offering a variety of options for different fitness levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these diverse trails more than 300 times.
What is the best time of year for jogging in Chiavenna?
The ideal time for outdoor activities like jogging in Chiavenna is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months, from April to October. During this period, the weather is most favorable for exploring the region's diverse landscapes.
What are the general difficulty levels of running trails in Chiavenna?
The running trails in Chiavenna cater to a range of abilities. You'll find a mix of routes, with 2 easy trails, 6 moderate options, and 13 more challenging routes, including those with significant elevation gain in the Alpine terrain.
Are there running routes that pass by waterfalls in Chiavenna?
Yes, Chiavenna is home to stunning waterfalls. You can find routes that allow you to experience the magnificent Acqua Fraggia Waterfalls, a significant natural monument in the area. These falls even captivated Leonardo da Vinci during his visit.
Can I find trails with unique geological features in Chiavenna?
Absolutely. The region boasts the fascinating Parco delle Marmitte dei Giganti (Giant's Kettle Park), a protected area showcasing impressive ice-polished rock formations and crevasses. These unique features are a result of glacial action from the last ice age, offering extraordinary landscapes to run through.
Are there any family-friendly jogging routes in Chiavenna?
While many routes in Chiavenna can be challenging due to the Alpine terrain, some of the easier valley paths or sections of the Valchiavenna Cycle Path could be suitable for families looking for a less strenuous run. Always check the route details for distance and elevation before heading out.
What do other runners say about the trails in Chiavenna?
The running trails in Chiavenna are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.75 stars from over 4 reviews. Runners often praise the varied terrain, stunning natural scenery, and the unique blend of challenging mountain tracks and picturesque valley routes.
Are there any circular running routes available?
Yes, many of the running routes in Chiavenna are designed as loops. For example, the Chiavenna – Balbiani Palace loop from Chiavenna is a popular difficult route, and the Prosto Village and Clock Tower loop from Chiavenna offers a challenging run through a historic village.
Are there running paths suitable for exploring historic villages?
Yes, the region offers opportunities to run through charming historic areas. The Prosto Village and Clock Tower loop from Chiavenna takes you through Prosto Village. Additionally, the ancient cobbled roads leading to alpine villages like Soglio and Savogno can be incorporated into longer runs, offering a glimpse into medieval life.
Can I find running routes with good viewpoints in Chiavenna?
Absolutely. Chiavenna is nestled among the Italian Alps, offering breathtaking views in nearly every direction. Routes often provide panoramic vistas, such as those found near the historic village of Soglio or along trails that offer a View of Acquafraggia Waterfalls.
Are there options for long-distance or challenging trail running?
For serious runners seeking a challenge, Chiavenna offers demanding options. The 'Kilometro Verticale Chiavenna-Lagunc' is a specialized mountain running course with a thousand-meter elevation gain. Additionally, the historic Via Spluga, a 70 km trail linking Chiavenna to Switzerland, provides an excellent opportunity for long-distance trail running.
Are there any running routes that are also suitable for cycling?
While primarily designed for cycling, the Valchiavenna Cycle Path offers a scenic and well-maintained option that can also be excellent for jogging. This sustainable route connects Colico with Switzerland, providing beautiful landscapes along the way.
Are there places to eat or drink near the running trails?
After a run, you can experience the unique local culture by visiting a 'Crotto'. These natural caves, historically used for aging local products, have often been transformed into rustic taverns and restaurants, offering a distinctive dining experience in the region.
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