Sorgenti dell'Adda, 23038 Valdidentro, Sondrio, Lombardia, Italy

## Overview Sorgenti dell'Adda — the springs of the River Adda — rise from the heart of the Italian Alps in Valdidentro, in the Province of Sondrio, Lombardia. Nestled near the Swiss border at an elevation well above 1,000 meters, these springs mark the headwaters of the Adda, which flows roughly 313 kilometers southward to become one of the longest and most important rivers in Italy, eventually emptying into the Po. The Adda has been a vital waterway since Roman times, and its alpine source here in the Valtellina has long been a point of geographic and cultural significance. The spring is publicly accessible at no cost and has a steady, year-round flow. Hikers and visitors have historically used the water as a drinking source, and no health issues have been reported by those who have done so. The water emerges from a pipe installation, though naturally flowing water can also be found seeping through the surrounding rocks nearby. **Important note on coordinates:** The GPS coordinates listed for this spring (46.547587, 10.240202) may be approximate. A more precise location has been reported at **46.54968, 10.24655**, corresponding to 23038 Valdidentro, Province of Sondrio, Italy. Some online sources have published incorrect addresses and coordinates for this site, so cross-referencing before your visit is recommended. ## Directions From the town of Valdidentro, the route to the springs is approximately 30 km: 1. Head toward **Decauville** and connect to **Via Cima Piazzi / SS301**. 2. Follow **SS301** southward until you reach **Piazza 4 Novembre** in the village of **Isolaccia**. 3. From Isolaccia, turn onto **Via Fraele** and continue uphill to the spring site. The final stretch is on an uphill grade, so be prepared for a moderate climb. If you plan to carry water back, keep in mind that a full large bottle will add significant weight on the descent. ## What to Expect The springs sit in a dramatic alpine landscape surrounded by rugged peaks and lush mountain vegetation. The location is slightly elevated, so expect a gentle uphill approach on the final leg of the journey. The primary water source flows from a pipe, making it easy to fill bottles, but you may also spot water emerging naturally through cracks in the rock nearby. The area is popular with hikers exploring the upper Valtellina and the trails leading toward the Fraele lakes and the Stelvio National Park region. The setting is peaceful and scenic — a rewarding stop whether you're on a dedicated spring visit or passing through on a longer trek. Visitors should note that the site is at altitude, so temperatures can be cool even in summer, and access may be affected by snow in winter and early spring. There are no entrance fees or formal facilities at the spring itself.