Discover Torre Di Santa Maria

Torre di Santa Maria lies on a moraine ridge in central Valmalenco, at the entrance to Val Torreggio and on the orographically right bank of the Torrente Mallero. The landscape and trails offer a variety of experiences: terraced slopes near Cagnoletti, traces of historic settlements, and hiking destinations ranging from a short section of rock steps to elevations around 3,000 metres. These themes provide practical guidance when choosing your stay. You can decide whether to focus on the cultural landscape, historic sites, or a particular hike.

Moraine terraces and cultivated slopes

The Contrada Cagnoletti lies on a moraine terrace at an elevation of about 700 metres, on the orographically right slope of the Torrente Mallero and the left bank of the Torrente Rio Valdone, at the foot of Monte Canale. Densely wooded areas surround terraces where grapevines, vegetables, and hay meadows are cultivated. In this cultural landscape, woodland and cultivated slopes alternate.

Hiking: from rocky paths to high mountains

The historic Anello della Scala dei Pizzi loop begins in Cagnoletti and climbs towards Pizzi via a short, steep staircase carved into the rock. The Torre–Zarri–Crisci–Campei–Braciascia walking trail reaches the Braciascia viewpoint at 1,570 metres. From there, you can see the peaks in the southeastern part of the Disgrazia range. The Torre–Musci–Zocche–Piasci–Bosio hike follows mule tracks through woodland and alpine clearings to Rifugio Bosio. These routes offer different profiles: a designated viewpoint on the one hand, and mule tracks, woodland, and alpine clearings on the way to Rifugio Bosio on the other.

The Prato–Bianchi walking trail follows a historic path across a terraced slope once used for agriculture, leading to the abandoned historic hamlet of Bianchi. Here, the trail description connects the slope’s former use with a destination of historic character. Check local trail conditions before setting out on any of the routes described.

The Alta Via della Valmalenco reaches elevations around 3,000 metres and can therefore be hiked only during the summer months. The first stage includes Sasso Bianco at 2,490 metres. From there, the 360-degree panorama takes in the Adamello range and Monte Rosa, as well as the Orobie, Disgrazia, and Bernina. When planning this route, take into account the stated restriction to the summer months.

History between a glacial erratic and the parish church

In Ca Bianchi, there is an approximately circular prehistoric glacial erratic with 23 clearly visible cup marks. In Volardi, the remains of a castle residence and towers are still visible; documents from the 14th century mention them. The parish church of Santa Maria Nascente was built in the 15th century, completely rebuilt in 1620, and extended in 1919. Prehistoric traces, buildings mentioned in the 14th century, and the church’s construction history thus represent distinct historical themes.

What to know before setting out

You can reach Cagnoletti from the provincial road to Valmalenco by taking the access road to the church in Valdone, then following a short footpath to the hamlet. Local conditions can vary seasonally; take this into account when planning the final section.

A permit is required for the road from Torre Santa Maria to Alpe Piasci. It is available at the Torre di Santa Maria municipal centre for a daily fee of 5 euros. Confirm the permit requirements locally before setting off.

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