Chiavenna

Chiavenna is a picturesque Alpine town at the gateway to the Swiss Alps, threaded by canals and surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. It is known for its unique crotti — ancient natural cave restaurants carved into the rock.

Things to do

• Dine in a crotto cave tavern — Book ahead for a meal inside a natural granite grotto cooled by mountain air — a totally unique experience.
• Visit the Paradiso botanical garden — A terraced hillside garden built into an old quarry with rare plants and panoramic town views.
• Explore the Collegiate church of San Lorenzo — Admire the 16th-century baptismal font, one of the finest Renaissance works in northern Lombardy.
• Hike to Acquafraggia waterfalls — A short walk from nearby Piuro leads to impressive twin waterfalls set in alpine forest.
• Cycle the Valchiavenna valley — A flat, well-marked cycling path follows the Mera River through alpine meadows toward the Swiss border.

Food to try

• Bresaola della Valtellina — Air-dried cured beef from the nearby Valtellina valley, served thinly sliced with olive oil and lemon.
• Sciatt — Crispy buckwheat fritters filled with melted Bitto cheese, a beloved Alpine snack from the area.
• Pizzoccheri — Buckwheat tagliatelle baked with savoy cabbage, potatoes, and Valtellina Casera cheese.
• Mela di Chiavenna grappa — A local apple-infused grappa produced in small batches in the Valchiavenna valley.

Local customs & good to know

• Crotto etiquette — Crotti are family-run and intimate; reservations are essential and meals are leisurely — never rush.
• Bilingual border culture — Chiavenna is near Switzerland and many locals speak German; a little Italian is warmly appreciated.
• Alpine weather — Mountain conditions can change rapidly; always carry a layer even in summer when hiking nearby trails.