4.8
(77)
572
hikers
Maloja - Lägh da Cavloc Loop Trail
03:49
10.6km
390m
Hiking
Hike from Maloja via Motta Salacina to Lägh da Cavloc for panoramic views and an idyllic lake, a moderate 6.6-mile trail.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
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396 m
Maloja Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Translated by Google •
Tip by
2.53 km
Lägh da Bitabergh
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
6.52 km
Lägh da Cavloc
Highlight • Lake
Showing Translation
Tip by
10.6 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.74 km
2.78 km
1.39 km
1.06 km
464 m
153 m
Surfaces
4.57 km
3.46 km
1.43 km
746 m
253 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,140 m)
Lowest point (1,780 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Friday 8 May
12°C
-1°C
16 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the trailhead in Maloja, and where can I park?
The trail starts in Maloja. While specific parking details aren't provided, Maloja is the common starting point for this circular hike. Public transport options are generally available to reach Maloja in the Engadine region.
How difficult is the hike from Maloja via Motta Salacina to Lägh da Cavloc?
This hike is rated as moderate. While some initial sections from Maloja might be wide, the ascent towards Motta Salacina involves a longer climb through alpine rose bushes, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness. The full circular hike typically takes around 3.5 hours.
What kind of terrain and scenery can I expect on the trail?
You'll experience diverse terrain, starting on wide paths from Maloja, which can be steep in sections. The ascent to Motta Salacina is more challenging. The path to Lägh da Cavloc passes through a beautiful coniferous forest. Scenically, you'll enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Engadine and Bergell valleys from Motta Salacina, and the idyllic Lägh da Cavloc itself.
What are the main points of interest along the route?
Key highlights include the panoramic views from Motta Salacina, which offer expansive vistas of the Bergell and Engadine regions. You'll also pass by Lägh da Bitabergh, a quiet 'hidden treasure' lake, and the main destination, Lägh da Cavloc, an idyllic mountain lake with a small beach and a mountain restaurant.
Is the trail dog-friendly?
Yes, this trail is generally considered dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is under control, especially in areas with wildlife or other hikers, and be mindful of local leash regulations.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The best time to hike this trail is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when the paths are clear of snow and the alpine flora, like rose bushes, are in bloom. Winter hiking is possible but may require different gear and conditions.
Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees for this hike?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike this trail from Maloja via Motta Salacina to Lägh da Cavloc.
Are there facilities like restaurants or barbecue areas along the way?
Yes, Lägh da Cavloc is a perfect resting spot, offering barbecue areas and a small mountain restaurant right on its shore, making it ideal for a leisurely break.
Does this trail connect with other well-known paths?
Yes, sections of this route intersect with other trails. You may find parts of the Alpine Bike - Etappe 4, Giro del Lago, Via Bregaglia, and Senda Segantini - Etappe 2 and 3 along the way.
Is this a circular hike, or do I need to arrange transport back?
This route is typically done as a circular hike from Maloja, allowing you to experience a variety of landscapes before returning to your starting point without needing to arrange separate transport.
Is the trail suitable for families with children?
While some initial sections from Maloja might be wide and even suitable for strollers, the ascent to Motta Salacina is described as a 'much longer ascent' and more challenging. It's generally rated moderate, so good fitness is recommended. Families with older, experienced hiking children might find it suitable, but it might be too demanding for very young children or strollers beyond the initial easy parts.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Hike with a beautiful view over Lake Maloja and down towards Italy. The ascent leads over roots, stairs and blocks of stone; sweaty but fantastically beautiful 🤩🤩 Also on the descent towards the lake, the trails are sometimes steep and very blocked. As a reward, a great mountain inn with super fine cakes awaits downstairs 😋
A very varied, at times quite challenging tour took me from Maloja past the impressive dam of the retention basin (hard to imagine that so much water could flow down there - but then it wouldn't be standing there anyway...) and the exciting smugglers' path to Lake Bitabergh. Very beautiful! As was the subsequent ascent and then the view from Motta Salacina. Next came a very beautiful, scenic, at times somewhat exposed, high-altitude trail just below the tree line. Soon after, it descended steeply to Lake Cavloc (also very beautiful) and then on an easy path through the Forno Valley back to Maloja. Here I joined the exciting long circular trail to Torre Belvedere and its many glacial potholes. This leads through a nature reserve (forest and raised bog) and is somewhat exposed or steep in places, but worthwhile. Lots of variety today, including the weather. The Maloja wind blew quite strongly in the afternoon and a rain front was building up in the Bergell, but it didn't reach me.
From Maloja we first hike to a mighty dam that was built in 1972 to protect against flooding. We continue through a pretty larch forest to the small Bitabergh lake, Lägh da Bitabergh, where we can take a break. Then the path climbs continuously to the highest point, the Motta Salacina, 2150 m, on a spacious plateau. From here, or a little earlier at the fork in the path, we have a great view of the Upper Engadin lakes to the north and the Bergell to the south. Now the descent begins on rocky paths to the very idyllic Läg da Cavloc. A nice restaurant invites you to stop for a break 🍰☕️🍻. We return to Maloja on a road. A wonderful hike in the best weather 🌞☀️
The starting point is in the middle of the route due to GPS failure. The descent is manageable, but the last section is a bit off-road and less interesting.