Valchiavenna

Valchiavenna combines three distinct ski areas—Madesimo, Campodolcino, and Motta—creating a diverse skiing destination with 60 kilometres of marked pistes across Lombardy's northernmost valley. The resort spans elevations from 1,200 to 2,880 metres beneath the distinctive Pizzo Groppera peak on the Swiss border. Modern snowmaking systems cover 80% of all marked runs, complementing natural snowfall that averages 5 metres annually at higher elevations. The area's signature experience remains the famous Canalone itinerary from Pizzo Groppera—an ungroomed 1,000-vertical-metre descent through a spectacular natural half-pipe that ranks among Italy's most challenging ski routes, while extensive cruising terrain caters perfectly to intermediates.

The Valchiavenna lift system comprises 15 modern installations strategically positioned across three interconnected ski zones. The network's centrepiece is the spectacular Ski Express cable car from Campodolcino to Motta, rising 700 vertical metres in just 3 minutes while avoiding the occasionally avalanche-prone road. Recent infrastructure investments have introduced RFID ticketing technology, weather protection bubbles on chairlifts, and expanded uphill capacity by 25%, effectively reducing wait times even during peak periods. The system's intelligent design enables excellent circulation throughout the resort, with strategic lift placements that facilitate natural progression through increasingly challenging terrain while maintaining spectacular views toward the Lepontine Alps.