Madesimo
Edited by:
Massimo Martini
Access
Madesimo, located in the heart of the Lombardy Alps, is an easily accessible destination thanks to a well-organised transport network connecting the municipality to major Italian cities and neighbouring Switzerland. The nearest airports are those of Milan-Malpensa, Milan-Linate and Orio al Serio (Bergamo), all located about two to three hours away by car. These international airports offer connections to numerous European and intercontinental destinations, making them an ideal starting point for those wishing to reach Valchiavenna.
For those who prefer to travel by train, the main railway station is Chiavenna, served by regional connections from Colico and Milan. From Chiavenna, which is about 20 kilometres from Madesimo, it is possible to continue with regular bus services to the village. Bus runs follow a timetable that takes into account the needs of tourists, especially during the ski season and in the summer months.
By car, Madesimo can be reached along the state road of Lake Como and Spluga, which is the main artery for those coming from Milan and Brianza. This route skirts Lake Como, offering panoramic views, and then enters the Valchiavenna. From Chiavenna, one continues along the provincial road , which climbs gently towards Madesimo through a well-maintained road network, even in winter, thanks to an efficient snow-clearing service.
The proximity to the Spluga Pass also makes Madesimo an easily accessible destination from Switzerland. During the summer season, the pass is an attractive option for those wishing to cross the border while enjoying the breathtaking Alpine scenery. However, it is important to bear in mind that the pass is closed during the winter months, making it necessary to use alternative routes.
The provincial road network is well structured, but the mountainous terrain requires attention, especially in adverse weather conditions. For those travelling by car during the winter, the use of winter tyres or snow chains is mandatory. Despite its remote location, Madesimo is perfectly integrated into the regional transport system, making it an easily accessible destination for tourists from all over Europe.
Introduction
Located in the heart of the Lombardy Alps, the municipality of Madesimo is a small jewel of the Valchiavenna valley, just a few kilometres from the Swiss border. Situated over 1,500 metres above sea level, it is a resort that combines the charm of unspoilt nature with a rich historical and cultural heritage, attracting visitors all year round.
Description
The territory of Madesimo is characterised by a breathtaking alpine landscape, with wide valleys, dense forests and majestic peaks exceeding 3,000 metres. The town is framed by imposing peaks such as Pizzo Tambò and Pizzo Stella, making it an ideal destination for those seeking contact with the mountains. Watercourses, among which the Liro torrent stands out, enrich the panorama and offer ideal habitats for a rich and varied flora and fauna. The plateau on which the municipality is located is particularly appreciated for its sunny exposure, which offers spectacular scenery in every season.
Madesimo's historical roots go back to ancient times, when the town was a strategic point for trade and communication between Italy and Switzerland thanks to its position along the Spluga Pass. This pass, used since Roman times, was a fundamental route for merchants and travellers. Over the centuries, Madesimo has evolved from a small mountain community to a renowned tourist resort. During the 19th century, the construction of the Spluga carriage road fostered economic development and tourism, transforming the town into a privileged destination for holidaymakers and mountain enthusiasts.
The local economy is mainly based on tourism, which is the main driver of life in the municipality. Winter activities, such as skiing and snowboarding, attract visitors from all over northern Italy and abroad, thanks to a network of well-equipped slopes and modern ski lifts. In summer, hikers find a true paradise, with trails winding through alpine pastures, forests and alpine lakes. Alongside tourism, traditions linked to agriculture and animal husbandry endure, such as the production of typical Valchiavenna cheeses, including the famous 'bitto'.
Madesimo's culture and traditions are reflected in the events and festivals that mark the local calendar. These include religious celebrations linked to patron saints and festivals dedicated to typical valley products. Local craftsmanship preserves ancient knowledge, with wood and stone work telling of a deep bond with the territory. These aspects make Madesimo a place where past and present meet, creating a unique atmosphere.
For hiking enthusiasts, Madesimo offers a wealth of opportunities. Popular destinations include Lake Emet, nestled between the mountains, and the panoramic route to the Spluga Pass. Nature lovers can explore the Pian di Spagna nature reserve or venture along the route to Pizzo Groppera, from where there are spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. There is no shortage of cosy refuges, such as the Rifugio Bertacchi, ideal for a regenerating break after a day's trekking. A curiosity linked to the area is the legend of Lake Montespluga, which tells of a submerged village whose bells are said to ring during the quietest nights.
Madesimo is, therefore, a place that knows how to enchant with the beauty of its nature and the warmth of its traditions, offering an authentic experience full of discoveries. A destination that invites you to slow down, immersing yourself in the rhythms and colours of the Lombardy Alps.
Information
Area: 85.66 sq. km
Altitude: 1,550m
Maximum elevation: 3,274m - Pizzo Tambó
Number of inhabitants: 512 (as at 31.08.2023)
Name in dialect: Madesan (in chiavennasco)
Inhabitant name: madesimini
Patron Saint: Saints Peter and Paul (29 June)
Bordering municipalities: Campodolcino, Ferrera, Mesocco, Piuro, Splügen, Sufers
Internet site: www.comune.madesimo.so.it