The french writer Jean Giorno declared: “The sun is never as beautiful as the day on which you set out on foot”.
 

And anyone who practises trekking or hiking is well aware of it. The very first steps on an excursion express the perfect synthesis of enthusiasm and expectations that the path that awaits us might well reveal. But in order for the experience to be enjoyed with peace of mind, each itinerary should be seriously considered, fixing the various stages, places to visit, the timing and - whenever possible - management of the unexpected. And this is precisely Carlotta and Gloria’s day-job, providing vital references for the Consorzio Turistico for trekking possibilities in Valchiavenna.

They take expert care of booking suitable accommodation for hikers along the routes, coordinating - where available - luggage transport services. We asked them which was the most notable itinerary in Valchiavenna in Autumn: they came up with the Via Francisca. Via Francisca: the origin of the name is probably to be found in the French franchir or franchissement, which means to “go beyond: or “transition.” Since Roman times the Via Francisca has represented over the centuries a vital connection for travellers to Valchiavenna from the village of Sorico at the northern tip of Lake Como. A natural progression from the south of the romana Regina road, the via Francisca fell into disuse during the High Middle Ages but was subsequently rediscovered and popularised during the 13th Century. Legend has it that Federico Barbarossa took this very route, finding refuge in the Colombée tower in Samolaco, which you can still visit today.

In recent years the via Francisca has become much appreciated by trekking enthusiasts. The route - around 37 km in length - crosses the whole of Valchiavenna and has some remarkable naturalistic corners in store for visitors along with abandoned ancient villages en route. The entire outing is well sign-posted and safe and is an ideal itinerary for the autumn period. For those approaching from the north, the via Francisca is the natural continuation of the Via Spluga. It represents part of the “Le Vie del Viandante” itineraries, 12 of the beautiful and special pathways that wayfarers have traced over the centuries: from Switzerland to Valchiavenna immersed in seductive Alpine landscapes, as far as the lesser-known villages on the eastern banks of Lake Como.