Caving-canyoning in the underground streams of Valmalenco

Discover the Valmalenco's deepest secrets with a mysterious and spectacular canyoning route in underground streams. That's right, the exploration takes place partially underground, in tunnels carved into the rock by the melt waters of the Bernina glaciers.

The Canyon Cormor offers a unique itinerary, a highly exciting experience that includes rope descents up to 25 metres, dives in the dark and swimming stretches. The activity will be led by a alpine guide, who will ensure the utmost safety even at the most challenging points.

There will be fun and amazement at the sight of waterfalls, high snake walls and the play of light between water and rock. All this, surrounded by the superbulous nature of the Valmalenco, in the province of Sondrio.

What we will do

We will meet the mountain guide in the village ofCaspoggio (SO) around 9:00. After introductions and handing over the mute and equipment, we will continue for about 40 minutes until we reach the parking area downstream of the stream. Here we will leave a car, which we will use to return to the starting point after the route, and continue uphill until we reach the entrance to the canyon.

Before embarking on the exploration, we will have a briefing with the guide on the use of the equipment and progression techniques at the most difficult points. After that, we will begin the canyoning route, following the course of the Cormor stream, which originates from the millenary Bernina glacier and is channelled through the reservoirs of Campo Moro and Gera.

The itinerary is partly underground, buried by a paleofrana that offers unique plays of light and views. We will encounter completely dark passages and the most daring will be able to experience the thrill of a dive in the absence of light. There will be two short swimming stretches and 12 rope descents, from 5 to 25 metres. Don't worry, the mountain guide will give everyone the necessary assistance.

The activity has a total duration of about 5 hours, of which 4 hours will be spent completing the canyoning route. At the exit of the canyon, we will find the car we left downstream and go back up to retrieve the other cars at the starting point.

Who it is aimed at

This activity is of intermediate level and is not suitable for beginners . Good physical condition, at least previous canyoning and/or climbing experience and the ability to swim at least 20 metres is required.

Other information

The activity takes place June to September, on the dates indicated in the calendar, and is confirmed when there are at least 3 participants.

Depending on weather conditions and the flow of the stream, the activity may be changed or moved/suspended at the guide's discretion.

The excursion takes place in unspoilt natural surroundings and there are no showers or changing rooms.

The guide is covered by professional liability insurance. At an additional cost of €3 (payable locally), it is possible to take out accident insurance. If you are interested, ask the guide after booking.

We recommend that you have a light but nutritious breakfast at least one hour before the activity.

The guide is provided with a watertight bin in which to store drinks, snacks and any small items to take on the excursion.

Recommended clothing

• swimming costume
• thermal shirt or sweater (to be worn under the wetsuit)
• socks (to be worn under the socks)
• hiking shoes