On arrival in Splügen make your own way to the first hotel. This gem of a settlement is undeniably a beauty encompassing elegant chalets typical of the Graubünden Canton. It is named after two brothers who signed a peace treaty in the region. A few decades later in the 1290s, the Germanic Walser peoples waltzed into the area with their cattle. There is still a traditional part of the village that reflects their building style. It lies west from the historic centre with its typical network of cobbled alleys known as "Bsetzi". Splügen flourished with the important pass trade and the gaining of a market license in the 1400s. It is worth visiting the Rheinwalder Heimat Museum exhibiting the history of centuries of transit through the valley. * An additional night is recommended here to take advantage of a magnificent walk to the Roffla Waterfalls. Suggested route - take a bus to Andeer and walk to Splügen - 14.5 km, 7 hours. Speak to your reservations consultant for further information.

Meals:  Nil

Make sure to spend some time exploring the village of Splügen before you head off, the village's conservation is definitely impressive. Today's walk will take you through Alpine pastures with breath-taking panorama of the surrounding peaks. Avalanche barrier tunnels and well-maintained, cobbled/paved mule-tracks are all set to feature along this high-altitude and expansive walk. The hike is enhanced by the heady fragrance of blooms as we move up from the village on the northern slope of the pass prior to the descent on the southside into Italy and on to the village of Montespluga. Breathe in the atmosphere of times past. A packed lunch is provided for today. Distance 11km/7mi; Ascent 790m/2592ft, descent 350m/1148ft

Meals:  B,L,D

From Montespluga the route follows a reservoir in order to reach one of two dams. From this viewpoint you can appreciate some spectacular views over the Cardinello Gorge, guaranteed to linger long in the memory. The gorge walking route was carved from the rock taking considerable exertion over the years. There are imposing rock faces to the left and up above and there is the steep gorge plunging away to the right where the torrent itself courses. The descent requires a certain amount of caution but it’s not demanding and leads you gently towards the typical wooden mountain dwellings (baite) of Sosta, Mottaletta and finally to Isola di Chiavenna. Distance 11km/7mi; Ascent 315m/1033ft, descent 960m/3150ft

Meals:  B,D

A hiking section which is mostly downhill in nature, following the route of the Liro torrent and introducing the you to the joys of the Val San Giacomo. You will be wandering along pathways between well-tended dry-stone wall, meadow and through chestnut groves. Take in places of considerable historical and religious interest today. From the small town of Campodolcino take the local bus to Chiavenna where you'll spend two nights. Full of corners, narrow lanes and aging stone walls, Chiavenna is a beguiling spot, no matter how many times you meander through its charming historical centre. Be sure to cross the ancient bridge over the Mera River and enjoy the storybook views of the town. Distance 8km/5mi; Ascent 150m/492ft, descent 300m/984ft

Meals:  B

Today you have a relaxed day in Chiavenna. We have prepared a circular walk for you to the imposing Acquafraggia waterfalls located in Piuro. The site of these dramatic falls left Leonardo da Vinci mesmerised during his visit to Valtellina. Visible from the roadside, these are considered the area’s most important natural monument and an undisputed symbol of Valchiavenna. In addition to the waterfalls, Piuro is also famous for its archaeological treasures and is dubbed ‘the Pompeii of the Alps’; in 1618 the village suffered one of the worst landsides in recorded history. It destroyed the entire village and 1000-2500 lives were lost. Distance 9km/5.6mi; Ascent/descent 125m/410ft

Meals:  B

A short transfer will take you to Dervio or Dorio, right on Lake Como for another unique hike along the coast to the charming lake town of Colico. From Dervio, the path climbs up the mountain on a steep cobblestone stairway and then descends gradually towards Colico. You'll be following the East side of the lake along the “Sentiero del Viandante” (the Wayfarer’s path). Experience breath-taking views of the lake and the snowy peaks of the Alps appearing in front of you. In Colico you have the chance to go for a refreshing swim at the beach in the middle of the town. Distance 9-12km/5.5-7.5mi; Ascent 470-660m/1542-2165ft, descent 580-670m/1903-2198ft

Meals:  B

Start the day with a short train ride to Bellano. It's worth visiting the “Orrido di Bellano”. This is a natural gorge created by the Pioverna River, over the centuries the river cut out gigantic potholes and fascinating caverns. Its dark ravines and the hollow rumble of gushing water have inspired many authors and made this one of the most popular spots on Lake Como. Your hike then follows a well-beaten mule track to Varenna; a jewel full of history and unique character. In Varenna you have some time to relax and enjoy the town. Perhaps you want to hike to the castle in Vezio village from where you can enjoy a 180-degree view of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. The Vezio Castle has stood for more than a thousand years. Or you can opt to take the ferry to Bellagio, known for its cobbled streets, elegant buildings and the Villa Serbelloni Park; an 18th-century terraced garden overlooking the lake. In the afternoon, take the local train back to Colico. Distance 5km/3mi; Ascent 270m/886ft, descent 290m/951ft

Meals:  B

Your walking holiday on the Via Spluga and Lake Como ends after breakfast. Bid farewell to the beautiful lakes as you depart for the airport with public transport, unless you have pre-booked a private transfer with us.

Meals:  B