Top 14 Waterfalls around Chiavenna
Best waterfalls around Chiavenna are found in a region characterized by its mountainous terrain and glacial valleys. This area, known as Valchiavenna, is home to numerous cascades formed by torrents descending from high altitudes. The waterfalls contribute to the region's natural landscape, offering diverse outdoor experiences. Leonardo da Vinci noted the beauty of these water features during his travels.
Best waterfalls around Chiavenna
- The most popular waterfalls is Acqua Fraggia Waterfalls, a waterfall that is a natural monument with…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Acqua Fraggia Waterfalls
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Acqua Fraggia Waterfalls
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Catino Waterfall
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Starting from Scalcoggia on the left side of the Madesimo tunnel you arrive in Pianazzo, home to the town hall.
Following the old carriage road, with a length …
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beautiful area to enjoy
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beautiful waterfalls and a scenic route
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When temperatures are hot you can cool off here
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Pianazzo Waterfall Starting from the town of Scalcoggia, on the left side of the Madesimo tunnel, you reach Pianazzo, the seat of the town hall. Along the old carriage road, about 1.3 km long and with a height difference of 150 meters, it is a walkway reserved for pedestrians and bicycles. It is illuminated and has some stopping points surrounded by the green of nature. The Pianazzo Waterfall, with its 180 meters of drop, is the highest waterfall in the valley, which is also fed by the waters of the Scalcoggia stream. The arrival of the promenade comes out directly on the viewpoint. Text / Source: Regionale lombardia.it https://www.in-lombardia.it/it/cascata-di-pianazzo
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Pianazzo Waterfall Starting from Scalcoggia on the left side of the Madesimo tunnel you arrive in Pianazzo, home to the town hall. Following the old carriage road, with a length of about 1.3 km and a difference in altitude of 150 meters, it is a walk reserved for pedestrians and bicycles. This is illuminated and has some rest areas immersed in the greenery of nature. The Pianazzo Waterfall, with its 180 meters of drop, is the highest waterfall in the valley, also fed by the waters of the Scalcoggia stream. The arrival of the walk comes out right on the belvedere. Text / Quelle: Regionale lombardia.it https://www.in-lombardia.it/it/cascata-di-pianazzo
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This app is beautiful, thanks to it I found my way around very well, excellent
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Spectacular panoramic point over the VALLEY...worth the visit💯
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly waterfalls to visit near Chiavenna?
Yes, several waterfalls in the region are suitable for families. The Acqua Fraggia Waterfalls are particularly family-friendly, offering picnic spots and safe lower paths. The Cama Waterfall with Tunnel is also easily accessible and offers a unique experience for children to walk behind the cascade.
What kind of hiking trails can I find near the waterfalls in Chiavenna?
The area around the waterfalls offers a variety of trails. Near the Acqua Fraggia Waterfalls, you'll find paths ranging from easy walks along the cascades to more strenuous routes leading to the ancient village of Savogno. The Catino Waterfall is accessible via an old carriage road suitable for pedestrians and cyclists.
Can I reach the waterfalls by public transport or do I need a car?
The Acqua Fraggia Waterfalls are easily accessible, with parking available, and can even be reached by bicycle from Chiavenna via a dedicated path. The Cama Waterfall with Tunnel is also just a short walk from the road/bus stop, making it quite accessible.
What unique natural features can be observed around the waterfalls?
Beyond the impressive cascades themselves, the Acqua Fraggia Waterfalls are notable for a rare fern, Pteris cretica, which thrives in the constant mist. The torrent also originates at Pizzo di Lago, forming a unique watershed between the North Sea and the Mediterranean.
Are there any historical connections to the waterfalls in the Chiavenna region?
Yes, the Acqua Fraggia Waterfalls hold historical significance. Leonardo da Vinci himself noted their beauty, referring to them as 'le belle chadute d'aqua' in his 'Codice Atlantico' during his travels in the late 15th century. They were also declared a natural monument by the Lombardy Region in 1984.
What outdoor activities can I do near the waterfalls?
Besides hiking and enjoying the views, the region offers various cycling opportunities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, MTB trails, and general cycling tours around Chiavenna, some of which pass by or near the waterfalls.
Is it possible to walk behind any of the waterfalls?
Yes, the Cama Waterfall with Tunnel offers a unique experience where visitors can walk behind the waterfall through a small tunnel to the other side. It's a popular and memorable feature of this cascade.
What is the highest waterfall in the valley near Chiavenna?
The Catino Waterfall, located near Pianazzo, is known for its impressive 180-meter drop, making it the highest waterfall in its valley. It offers a breathtaking view from its belvedere.
Are there any hidden waterfalls or less-known spots worth exploring?
While the main waterfalls are well-known, there are smaller, somewhat hidden cascades like the Waterfall near the Via Spluga hiking trail. It features a stone basin where water collects, offering a refreshing spot.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls in Chiavenna?
The waterfalls are beautiful year-round, but spring and early summer often offer the most powerful flow due to snowmelt. The cool, invigorating atmosphere in summer makes it a perfect spot for outdoor relaxation, while autumn provides stunning foliage. Winter can transform them into icy spectacles.
Can I go wild swimming near any of the waterfalls?
While direct swimming in the main cascades might not be advisable due to safety, some smaller, less powerful spots, like the Waterfall near the Via Spluga, have stone basins where the water collects, potentially offering refreshing dips in summer.
What do visitors enjoy most about the waterfalls in the Chiavenna area?
Visitors frequently highlight the spectacular views, the refreshing atmosphere, and the accessibility of many sites. The double drop of the Acqua Fraggia Waterfalls and the unique experience of walking behind the Cama Waterfall with Tunnel are often cited as memorable experiences.
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Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Chiavenna:
