Strà Granda Monterosa

A race through the history of the Anzasca Valley

The Strà Granda Monterosa is a trail running race held in the town of Piedimulera, in the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, traversing the entire Anzasca Valley up to Macugnaga, the pearl at the foot of Monte Rosa. The route follows the ancient Strà Granda, the historic connection that gives the event its name: once a mule track used by merchants from the Ossola region to reach nearby Switzerland, and by Swiss traders traveling to the markets of Val d'Ossola.

The route and its Walser roots

Defined as a true heritage trail, the race leads athletes through villages rich in Walser culture, past ancient gold mines, and across breathtaking glacial scenery, in an itinerary that blends sport, nature, and local heritage. The distance is approximately 32 km with a positive elevation gain of nearly 1950 meters: starting from the valley floor at Piazza Carlo Morandini in Piedimulera, the course climbs toward the spectacular East Face of Monte Rosa, the highest in the Alps.

Race formats

Strà Granda Monterosa offers multiple participation options, designed for both experienced athletes and groups:

• Strà Granda Race — the individual race covering the entire route from Piedimulera to Macugnaga.
• Strà Granda Relay — the team format consisting of three athletes, who split the course into three stages.

Over the years, the event has been included in the VCO Top Race circuit, the reference calendar for trail running in the Verbano-Cusio-Ossola province.

Sport and territory in Piedmont

More than just a competition, the Strà Granda is an opportunity to experience the Anzasca Valley in an authentic way, amidst pristine nature, history, and high-mountain panoramas. Set against the backdrop of Monte Rosa, the massif that dominates this northern corner of Piedmont, the event attracts trail enthusiasts and hikers eager to rediscover the ancient paths that link the valley's villages.