Madesimo

Madesimo is a small village in the Splügen Valley situated at 1,550 metres altitude, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Rhaetian Alps. The town borders Switzerland to the north, whilst to the south it is bounded by the Lake Como. Madesimo lies just 3 km from the renowned Splügen Pass, which connects Italy with the upper Rhine valley in Swiss territory, and has consequently always played an important role in logistics and transport. Since Roman times, Madesimo was considered a strategic hub, as the Splügen Way already passed through here – a road that connected Milan with Lindau.

The town is now renowned as a premier tourist destination that welcomes visitors year-round. In winter, Madesimo is the ideal choice for those who love winter sports and snowy fun, offering 60 km of slopes, numerous cross-country circuits and the opportunity to enjoy snowmobile excursions and snow-kiting. Come summer, the town attracts tourists thanks to its natural heritage and the many outdoor activities available.

Where to ski in Madesimo

Madesimo is famous for its beautiful slopes that attract keen skiers from both Italy and Switzerland during winter. This resort offers access to a vast ski area, known as Ski Area Valchiavenna, which extends to the localities of Motta and Val di Lei (near Campodolcino). The ski area features 60 km of slopes of varying difficulty levels, reaching altitudes of up to 3,000 metres. The lower slopes are surrounded by larch forests, whilst at higher elevations you’ll find open, sunny descents.

More experienced skiers can tackle the Madesimo Couloir, a near-3 km off-piste descent with 1,000 metres of vertical drop connecting Pizzo Groppera to Pian dei Larici. Snowboarders and freestyle enthusiasts can have fun at the Madepark snow-park in Acquarela, located at 1,800 metres altitude. Those interested in cross-country skiing have 12 km of dedicated slopes at their disposal.

The lift systems are equally modern, including the Sky Express, a cable car that covers seven hundred metres of vertical drop in just seven minutes, whisking visitors to Motta at 1,721 metres. The cable car serves both skiers and walkers. At the top you’ll find a beginner park where children can enjoy themselves safely, as well as bob, sledge and rubber ring runs. The ski school is also located here, where beginners can learn to ski.

Madesimo is equally ideal for those keen on ski touring and snowshoeing. For ski touring, one of the best routes crosses the Niemet Pass, a descent particularly suited to experienced skiers seeking challenging runs. For snowshoe enthusiasts, the Andossi area is perfect. The town is also home to two snow-kite schools for those wishing to try this exhilarating activity, and Fat Bike rental shops for those wanting to pedal through the snow.

Ski passes in Madesimo

Madesimo is part of the Ski Area Valchiavenna and, like many other Lombard ski resorts, offers visitors various ski pass options. Whether you choose a morning pass (for skiing in the morning only), afternoon, day, multi-day or seasonal pass, options are available. Passes can be purchased at the ticket offices at the lift stations or online.

What to do in summer in Madesimo

An ideal destination for a winter break, Madesimo is equally perfect during the summer season, when you can plan full days outdoors. This locality is a true haven of peace and tranquillity where you can enjoy various activities including trekking, Nordic walking, mountain biking, cycle touring, climbing and sport fishing. There’s also a riding stable offering equestrian activities for both adults and children, and a splendid golf course.

Those who enjoy hiking can follow the trails that depart from the town centre, winding through the surrounding forests. Alternatively, you can visit the Alpine Garden located at the top of Valcava, accessed through the gorge that cuts through the Andossi area. Beyond walking, these territories are perfect for exploring by bicycle. Madesimo and Valchiavenna more broadly offer routes with varying difficulty levels.

For beginners and families, there are easy itineraries such as the Madesimo–Motta–Fondovalle loop or the Andossi cycle path. MTB enthusiasts, meanwhile, can enjoy the MadeBike Park, where both novices and experienced riders can tackle blue-marked easy trails or take on the more challenging red and black routes.

Madesimo village

The municipality of Madesimo comprises the localities of Madesimo, Pianazzo, Isola and Montespluga. The town has managed to preserve its original character and several points of interest. In particular, a visit to the Parish Church dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul is a must – it was built in 1946 to replace an older church dating back to the sixteenth century. In the neighbouring hamlet of Pianazzo, you’ll find the small church of Santa Maria Maddalena.

Don’t miss the Museum of the Splügen Way and Val San Giacomo, where you can learn about the history of Madesimo and Valchiavenna. Finally, Madesimo is the perfect place to find numerous restaurants serving local cuisine and artisan shops producing charming handcrafted items.

Where to stay in Madesimo

Madesimo is a small town but nonetheless offers various types of accommodation. From hotels to apartments, from resorts to mountain refuges, Madesimo is able to meet the needs of every visitor. The most sought-after lodgings are those located near the lift stations, or establishments offering spa facilities or wellness services.

Recommended hotels in Madesimo

How to reach Madesimo

By far the simplest way to reach Madesimo is by car. Those arriving by car from Milan should take the SS36 road along Lake Como and the Splügen Pass. Visitors from Bergamo should first travel along the SP166 and then the SS36. Those coming from Sondrio should first take the Stelvio Pass road (SS38) and then the SS36 along Lake Como and the Splügen Pass.

The nearest railway station is at Chiavenna, approximately 20 km away. From Chiavenna you can reach Madesimo by local bus. The closest airports are Bergamo Orio al Serio, some 124 km away, and Milan Linate, approximately 142 km distant.

Madesimo Weather