Top Reasons Why You Should Visit the Valtellina Valley
Situated in the Italian Alps, near the Swiss border, you will find the Valtellina valley – an area surrounded by the mountains and breathtaking views. The valley was once an important mountain pass for many centuries. As for today, the Valtellina is one of the best destinations for outdoor excursions, authentic Northern Italian cuisine and their exquisite wines. Miramonti Corteno, our Alpine hotel, is located in this remarkable valley in the small town called Corteno Golgi. Our local expertise helps guide guests decide on what they can do while staying in the area. We must say, many travellers are missing out on this unique location as the Valtellina is often overlooked when it comes to travel destinations! So if you’re debating whether to go there or not, here are our top reasons why you should visit the Valtellina valley:
The Great Outdoors
The Valtellina offers the best of what nature could offer. Billions of years ago, the Eurasian and African plate collided; as a result, that collision formed the majestic Alpine mountains that exist today. The Italian Alps looks over the valley, becoming a habitat for many flora and fauna in the area. Just one glance at the mountains, you will be stunned by the sea of evergreens cascading from the top of the mountains to the foothills. In terms of fauna, you can expect to identify some unique Alpine animals such as the ibex, marmot or perhaps a few cows grazing on fresh pastures. If you’re in the mood to venture to the great outdoors, there are so many Alpine Hiking Trails all around the Valtellina that you can go on!
Sports
The Valtellina valley welcomes all types of sports. Whether you’re a newbie or an adrenaline junkie, there will be something for you. The most popular sport in the area is skiing. Skiing is perfect in the Valtellina as there are countless snow-covered mountains to take advantage of. Our favourite location is the Aprica Ski Resort; it offers different slopes for different-kinds of skill level. But if you’re not in the mood to do some snowsports, or perhaps you’re travelling in the summer – there are many other fantastic sports you can participate in. You could cycle through the Stelvio Pass, paraglide through the air and even try some fly-fishing.
Thermal Baths
If you’re looking for the ultimate spa retreat, then look no further as the city of Bormio. Bormio offers one of the most relaxing experiences in the Valtellina – the thermal baths. For centuries, the ancient peoples often visited Boario to unwind and forget all of life’s worries in the natural, warm baths. The beneficial waters of Bormio were appreciated even during the time of the pets, including Pliny the Elder and Cassiodoro, who both mentioned Bormio in their works.
UNESCO TRAIN
A gem you need to visit while in the Valtellina? No doubt, the Bernina Express. The Bernina Express is recognised to be one of the highest and most enchanting train rides in the world, as recognised by UNESCO. You will start at the small mountain town of Tirano, then making your way past through the immense mountains of the Alps, catching magnificent views of the peaks and rivers – until finally – you make it to the Swiss town of St. Moritz. If you do decide to take this opportunity of a lifetime, make sure to book in advance!
Valtellina Wines
You can’t go to Italy without sipping some vino! And what better place to do that than in the Valtellina? Head over to the Province of Sondrio, and you will discover Valtellina Wineries that grow their grapes on the foothills of the mountains. They have been built on the mountain slopes, at an altitude that can even reach up to 2,500 feet. The practice of growing wines by mountains has been done for centuries, with evidence of terraces constructed by ancient peoples. The most popular grape grown in this region is Nebbiolo grapes used for the creation of red wine such as Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG and Valtellina Superiore DOCG.
The Food
Last, but definitely not least, you cannot head over to Valtellina without trying some of their local specialities. We suggest you start with meaty antipasto called Bresaola – lean, red-coloured salumi that pairs beautifully with Alpine Cheese. On the side, you can also order a plate of Sciatt, which are essentially buckwheat fritters filled with gooey Valtellina Casera cheese. Following those two starters, head straight into trying Valtellina’s most famous Pizzoccheri dish, a buckwheat pasta dish dressed with cheese, potatoes, cabbage and heaps of melted butter – delicious!
Why not stay at Albergo Miramonti? We are located within the Alps, with a Hotel Spa, relaxing Cigar Lounge and an Italian Restaurant that serves local Valtellina Cuisine.
For more articles about the Italian Alps and Northern Italy, read our blog: