How many of us have travelled through a place en-route to somewhere bigger/better/shinier without realising what we’ve missed out on? The organisers of the Valchiavenna Gravel Escape wanted gravel riders to experience their region, rather than by-passing it. Shimano Gravel Alliance rider Claudia Gerosa reports back from the event and hopes that next time we’ll consider stopping off, rather than passing through.
Taking part in the Valchiavenna Gravel Escape was much more than just a cycling event: it was truly a journey discovering a valley often underestimated and hurriedly passed through en route to more renowned destinations such as Passo dello Spluga or the famous Saint Moritz. Thanks to this event, however, we had the opportunity to explore hidden and stunning places in Valchiavenna, cycling along gravel paths that surprised us kilometer after kilometer.
The event was impeccably well organised, with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that accompanied us throughout the day. Numerous refreshment points were a delightful surprise, offering typical local products from small valley businesses: flavourful cheeses, local cured meats, handmade desserts and much more, all enjoyed in the company of enthusiastic and smiling fellow cyclists.
The proposed route offered continuous scenic changes. Starting from beautiful Chiavenna, we headed south through captivating landscapes towards the picturesque Lago di Mezzola. From there, we pedalled northward up the valley, admiring the enchanting Acquafraggia waterfalls along the way, a true spectacle of nature.
But the surprises didn’t end there: we continued along the Valchiavenna cycle path into Switzerland, immersing ourselves in the charming Swiss landscape dotted with small stone cottages and magnificent green meadows. We then re-entered Italy through an unforgettable passage literally beneath the Caroggia waterfall, an thrilling and unforgettable experience.
Returning once more to the splendid Chiavenna perfectly concluded this day filled with discoveries, reminding us that sometimes slowing down is all it takes to fully appreciate the hidden beauty of often overlooked regions.
If you would like to follow in Claudia’s tyre tracks, you can find her route here:
If you would like to find out more about Valchiavenna Gravel Escape then head over to their website.
Images courtesy of Claudia Gerosa, Francesco Bergamaschi, Irene Durand & Davide Ferrari