Piz Paradisin

Piz Paradisin is a 3,302 m summit above the Val da Camp, close to Poschiavo in the Swiss canton of Graubünden. The Swiss-Italian border runs over its top. The peak belongs to the Rhaetian Alps, within the Livigno Alps subgroup, and Italians know it as Pizzo Paradisino, rising above Livigno in Lombardy.

Where is Piz Paradisin?

The mountain is part of the Livigno Alps and ranks third in height within the group. A small glacier, the Vadreit da Camp, covers its south-western slopes. The summit sits at roughly 46.43° N, 10.12° E. One side looks down toward the Poschiavo valley, the other toward Livigno and its reservoir lakes.

How do you reach the summit?

The standard route is a long hike with some scrambling, and in summer it needs no rope work on the glacier. Both approaches converge near the Passo di Val Mera.

• Swiss side: from Sfazù, follow the road up Val da Camp to the Saoseo hut at 1,985 m, then continue up Val Mera to the pass.
• Italian side: drive from Livigno toward the Forcola pass, park before Alpe Vago, then take trail 113 toward the Valetta lakes. There are no huts on this side, which makes for a lengthy day.

From the pass the way heads east without markings toward the Vadreit da Camp. In summer you can skirt the ice over scree on its northern flank and reach a small lake below the top. The last stretch follows the south ridge and calls for alpine experience and good fitness.

When should you go?

Summer walking is best from July to September, once most snow has melted, though snowfields can linger on the higher sections. Between March and May the peak is a ski-touring objective, with a long climb to the point where skis are left behind.

What should you bring?

Pack a helmet, crampons and an ice axe if snow remains, plus a map and navigation, since the upper route is unmarked. Plan the day with generous time reserves because the route is long.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Piz Paradisin?

It stands at 3,302 m above sea level and is the third highest peak of the Livigno Alps.

Do you have to cross the glacier?

No. In summer you can bypass the Vadreit da Camp over scree, although some route descriptions also mention crossing its tongue.

Where is the easiest place to start?

On the Swiss side, the Saoseo hut, reached by road from Sfazù, makes a convenient base. The Italian side has no huts.

Is it a beginner peak?

No. The route is long and the final ridge is alpine terrain that demands experience and stamina.