Distance: 24,4 Km
Walking time: 8,25 hours
Bormio, in the heart of the Alta Valtellina region, is the starting point of the Eastern Route of the Marian Way of the Alps. From the parish church of Saints Gervasius and Protasius, located in Piazza Cavour (also known as Piazza del Kuerc), right in the historic center of the town, the route quickly leads to the Combo Bridge, another undisputed symbol of Bormio, which takes you to the Church of Sassello—privately owned—offering some interesting panoramic views.
From here begins a more challenging section of the path leading into Valfurva, in the heart of the Stelvio National Park: first reaching the small village of Madonna dei Monti with its parish church dedicated to the Blessed Virgin of Mount Carmel, and then, heading back towards Bormio, the Church of Our Lady of Mercy in Uzza. Once back in Bormio, the route continues through two other important valleys: first Valdidentro, with the Church of San Gallo, standing alone along the road between Bormio and Premadio, and then Valdisotto, at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Caravaggio in Oga.
The effort required to reach this sanctuary (the elevation gain from Premadio is demanding) is richly rewarded by the stunning panoramic view over the Bormio basin. From here, the route descends to the parish church of Santa Maria Assunta in Cepina, the final stop, where one can admire up close the magnificent wrought iron gate enclosing the 18th-century three-arched ossuary.
A tip: Bormio is one of the most important alpine spa destinations, so it might be worth splitting this stage into two days to enjoy a relaxing break in one of the town's three thermal baths—also a great way to reduce the physical strain of the route.
