It takes a whole day to walk the entire length of the valley, which is named after the river that runs through it. This journey is rich in history, rural life and nature.
The hike is not difficult and is characterised by a considerable length and moderate altitude difference. Starting at the Austro-Hungarian Monumental Cemetery in Bondo, it follows a mostly downhill route to the shores of Lake Idro. Alternatively, you can walk the same route in reverse, from Lake Idro to the Monumental Cemetery in Bondo, which involves some uphill stretches.
The route follows the 'Ciclovia dei Fiori' (Flower Cycle Path) through the valley's countryside and historic villages and towns, offering a rich and rewarding experience for those who choose to explore it. Spanning almost 30 km, the route features artefacts from various historical eras, including medieval castles, Austro-Hungarian fortresses, First World War military structures, farmers' museums, limestone for lime production, and much more. Interspersed with these are unique naturalistic views that offer a glimpse into the environments of Lake Roncone and Lake Idro, as well as the singular corners along the River Chiese.
Continue your journey on La Via delle Valli, where you can choose to explore any of the 50 proposed valleys. Find out more at: www.campigliodolomiti.it/laviadellevalli.
You will find signs and stamps in the valleys from July 2025.
Valle del Chiese, together with Val Rendena, form the backbone of La Via delle Valli. Heading north on the cycle path, we reach the hamlet of Verdesina, where Valle Rendena begins.
Along the flanks of Valle del Chiese, there are many secondary valleys that, like a fishbone, start out at right angles into the Adamello and Cadria mountain groups that border it.