Autumn Foliage: Viola Valley

Val Viola is one of the most scenic valleys in Alta Valtellina, and in autumn it shows its most romantic face: larch forests ablaze with foliage, clear mountain streams and alpine peaks reflected in the waters of Lake Viola.

The hike starts in Arnoga (Valdidentro), where ample parking is available along the Foscagno Pass road. From the hairpin bend, at the information panels, take the easy flat road that leads into the heart of the valley. You walk for about 5 km on asphalt surface to the Altumeira locality. Alternatively, during the summer it is possible to reach Altumeira by shuttle or paid transit permit.

From here the trail proper begins: a gentle and regular path, accessible even to inexperienced walkers or families accustomed to walking. The trail follows the course of the Viola stream among wide pastures and sparse coniferous forests, offering increasingly wide views of the head of the valley and the peaks of the Cima Piazzi - Corno di Dosdé group.

After about 25 minutes you come to a fork in the road: continue to the right, following the signs for Rifugio Viola. The path, always evident and well-marked, leads first to the charming Lago Viola, a small alpine mirror set in a natural amphitheater, and a little further on to Rifugio Viola (2,300 m).

For those who wish to extend the hike, the Viola Pass, which marks the border with Switzerland and affords spectacular views of the Poschiavo Valley, can be reached in a short time.