Trekking
2:40 h
8.49 km
440 m
11 m
ModerateVal Viola is one of the most scenic valleys of Alta Valtellina and in autumn shows its most romantic face: forests of larches ablaze with foliage, clear mountain streams and alpine peaks reflected in the waters of Lago Viola.
The hike starts at Arnoga (Valdidentro), where a large parking area is available along the road to Passo della Foscagno. From the hairpin bend, at the information panels, take the easy flat road leading into the heart of the valley. Walk about 5 km on asphalt to the Altumeira locality. Alternatively, during summer it is possible to reach Altumeira by shuttle or paid transit permit.
From here starts the actual trail: a gentle and regular path, accessible also to less experienced walkers or families used to hiking. The route follows the course of the Viola stream between wide pastures and sparse conifer woods, offering ever-wider views on the head of the valley and the peaks of the Cima Piazzi – Corno di Dosdè group.
After about 25 minutes you reach a fork: turn right, following the signs for Rifugio Viola. The trail, always obvious and well signposted, first leads to the picturesque Lago Viola, a small alpine mirror set in a natural amphitheater, and shortly after to Rifugio Viola (2,300 m).
For those wishing to extend the walk, it is possible to reach Passo Viola briefly, marking the Swiss border and offering a spectacular view over Val di Poschiavo.
