Maloja Pass

Embark on an exciting driving experience starting at the Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski St. Moritz, your luxurious base for exploring the Swiss Alps. The Maloja Pass offers a distinctive driving experience, with its striking contrasts and historic significance. Despite being considered an ‘alpine pass that isn’t one’, it promises captivating landscapes and a remarkable descent into Italy.

Driving Experience

Distance: 30 km

Summit: 1,815 m

Max Gradient: 9%

From St. Moritz, the approach to the Maloja Pass is a gentle ascent, offering panoramic views of the Upper Engadine’s lakes and valleys. Once you reach the summit, the landscape changes dramatically. The southern descent is steep and thrilling, winding down through 22 tight corners toward the charming village of Casaccia and the Bergell Valley.

The pass offers sweeping views of the Italian Alps in the distance, and the transition from Switzerland to Italy becomes evident as the vegetation shifts from alpine meadows to lush forests. This drive will delight enthusiasts with its combination of wide curves, smooth sections, and occasional tight bends, making it ideal for testing the performance and handling of your car.
 

Seasonal Considerations

The Maloja Pass remains open throughout the winter, making it a reliable route for year-round adventures. However, caution is advised during snowy conditions, as the steep descent can become challenging.

Points of Interest

Lake Sils: Before beginning your descent, take a moment to visit Lake Sils, one of the most scenic spots in the Engadine region, perfect for a quick photo stop.

Bergell Valley: As you descend, the valley offers stunning views and opportunities to explore small villages like Vicosoprano and Bondo.

Casaccia: This village marks the transition point between the Upper Engadine and the Bergell Valley, ideal for a short break before continuing towards Italy.
 

Local attraction, Local Attraction, Local Area, Off-Site

History

The Maloja Pass has been an important trade route since Roman times, providing access to the Julier Pass and the Via Claudia Augusta route through the Tyrol. However, for centuries, the Septimer Pass was preferred due to its more direct north-south connection.

Initially, the Bergell traders used the Maloja Pass for transporting goods, but by the 14th century, it became a major transit route for the Stromer family from Nuremberg, who used it to transport wine to the Murotto Pass and further into Val Malenco and the Veltlin region.

In 1648, the construction of an inn with stables in Maloja increased traffic along the pass. A small road was introduced in 1776, and by 1827, a more modern road with 22 corners was built, eventually extending through Bergell into Italy by 1859. During the 19th century, the pass saw heavy use, with up to 12,000 horses per month transporting goods.

The post coach route from Samedan to Chiavenna gave way to the PTT alpine wagon service in 1919, marking the end of an era. Although the Maloja Pass remained significant for local travel, the construction of the San Bernardino Tunnel (1967) and the Gotthard Tunnel (1980) diverted much of the commercial traffic. The road was reconstructed in 1957, giving the Maloja Pass its present-day form and making it a popular route for travellers seeking scenic adventures.
 

Extend Your Drive from the Maloja Pass to the Enchanting Lake Como

After experiencing the stunning descent of the Maloja Pass, why not continue your journey into Italy and explore the breathtaking landscapes leading to Lake Como? This extension offers more than just smooth roads—it provides scenic stops that blend nature, culture and history.

Exterior, Exterior View of Building, Outdoor/Exterior, On-Site

Drive through the Bergell Valley and Discover the Acquafraggia Waterfalls

As you leave the Bergell Valley, the landscape gradually transitions from alpine terrain to Mediterranean vegetation. Along the way, make a must-see stop at the Acquafraggia Waterfalls near Piuro. These cascading falls, with their twin streams tumbling down the cliffs, create a mesmerising spectacle. The site also offers picnic areas and short walking trails—perfect for stretching your legs before continuing your drive.

The waterfalls are a place of both natural beauty and history. Noted by Leonardo da Vinci in his Codex Atlanticus for their grandeur, they remain awe-inspiring to this day.

The Road to Lake Como

From the waterfalls, follow the road further south towards Chiavenna, a charming Italian town known for its historic architecture and delightful restaurants. Enjoy a coffee break or indulge in some local Italian cuisine before embarking on the final stretch to Lake Como.

The drive from Chiavenna to Lake Como offers gentle curves and scenic vistas, with olive groves and vineyards lining the route. As you approach the lake, the shimmering waters of Lago di Como come into view, framed by the dramatic peaks of the Lombardy Alps.

Arriving at Lake Como

Upon reaching Lake Como, you’ll be welcomed by charming villages like Menaggio and Varenna, nestled along the shoreline. Spend time exploring the narrow streets, enjoy lakeside dining or take a boat ride across the lake to the famous town of Bellagio.

Exterior view, Exterior View of Building, Outdoor/Exterior, On-Site

Points of Interest Along the Way

Acquafraggia Waterfalls: A scenic stop with walking trails and picnic areas, noted by Leonardo da Vinci for their beauty.

Chiavenna: A picturesque Italian town perfect for a break, known for its local specialities and historic architecture.

Menaggio and Varenna: Quaint towns on the shores of Lake Como, ideal for a lakeside stroll or dining.

Do you want to rent a unique RIVA Boat at the Lake Como? - please contact our Concierge - he will arrange this unique Experience for you. 

Make your journey unforgettable by starting and ending it at the Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski St. Moritz. With exceptional service and luxurious amenities, it’s the perfect place to relax after an exciting day on the road.

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