Santa Maria in Calanca is a municipality in the Moesa Region of the Swiss canton of GraubĂĽnden. The village lies on a terrace above the Misox, at around 949 m above sea level. Its village character and mountain trails give a stay two distinct focal points: the historic settlement and hikes that each have their own route and level of difficulty.
In the original settlement, cobbled footpaths connect the stone buildings. The medieval Torre Santa Maria and the parish church of Santa Maria Assunta stand on a rocky outcrop. From there, visitors can enjoy an exceptional view of the Bassa Mesolcina and the surrounding mountains. The village layout and the view thus represent different aspects of the place: narrow passages between the buildings and a wide view across the valley.
Tower, church and guided tour
The Torre Santa Maria was built in the late 13th or early 14th century. The pentagonal keep is inspired by architectural models from north-central France. Dominating the Misox from its elevated position, the tower was part of a system for territorial control. The parish church of Santa Maria Assunta is documented as early as 1219. Santa Maria itself was the religious and political centre of the entire Calanca Valley. The construction history of the tower and the early mention of the church offer different historical perspectives.
The guided tour of Santa Maria in Parco Val Calanca focuses on historic buildings. Registration is required to take part. If you are planning a visit to the village, you should take this requirement into account in advance; a tour without registration is not guaranteed.
Hiking trails with different planning details
The first stage of the Via Calanca runs from Grono to Santa Maria and is 4 km long. The Sentiero Alpino Calanca runs from San Bernardino to Santa Maria and follows official trails rated T3. This trail requires sure-footedness, a good head for heights, good physical fitness and knowledge of mountain hazards. It can be divided into three or four stages. Overnight accommodation along the route includes the unstaffed huts at Pian Grand, Ganan and Alp di Fora, as well as Capanna Buffalora; check whether the huts are available before setting off.
The two trails therefore have different planning details: a distance is given for the first stage of the Via Calanca, while the Sentiero Alpino Calanca also has a T3 rating, requirements and a multi-day itinerary.
The Via Panoramica Bolada Trek starts in Santa Maria. Its highest point is at the Sant’Antonio de Bolada chapel, at 1,674 m above sea level. The chapel stands beside a path that branches off the ViaCalanca and leads from Santa Maria to Braggio.
More things to do locally
The Bald launch site on the Monti di Santa Maria is at 1,218 m and is designated for paragliding and hang-gliding. From Santa Maria, it can be reached by road or by post bus, followed by a 20-minute walk. Check local flight conditions and access before setting out, as weather and seasonal road conditions may affect access.
The landscape also shapes the character of the village: Santa Maria has a Mediterranean climate and is known for its extensive chestnut groves. Grotto Baita in Santa Maria serves dishes with a view of the Mesolcina. Check before travelling whether it is open.
Discover more destinations
Braggio, Cama, Castaneda Gr, Roveredo, San Bernardino, Rossa Gr, San Vittore Gr, Selma
Back to the main travel overview: Moesa.
