What to do in Valtellina when it rains

There’s no reason to let the weather gods dictate the amount of fun you can have in Valtellina. We’ve rounded up all the best ways to keep boredom at bay when bad weather rolls in to this fascinating valley.

Here are six things to do when it rains in Valtellina!

Valtellina is Italy’s biggest terraced wine-growing area with a history of viticulture that’s shaped the valley and made it what it is today. There are no fewer than two high-quality DOCG-certified wines here (Valtellina Superiore and Sforzato di Valtellina, also known as Sfursat), as well as the Rosso di Valtellina DOC and Alpi Retiche IGT. Yep—these acronyms of origin and quality are a big deal.

Rainy days are the perfect opportunity to acquaint yourself with such local wines. Pick one of the many wine cellars for a visit, try local delicacies, and immerse yourself in living history.

You can book guided visits and other experiences at places located on the Strada del Vino della Valtellina here: https://www.valtellina.it/en/visiting-a-wine-cellar

For a spectacular voyage into history, a chance to admire stunning Valtellina-style architecture and a nosey into how people used to live, a visit to one of the valley’s historic villas and museums is a must. Take your pick from one of the many jaw-dropping sites spread across the whole region.

More info: https://www.valtellina.it/en/tourist-activities/historic-palaces and https://www.valtellina.it/en/tourist-activities/museums

On grey, moody days, is there anything more relaxing than a day at the spa? Luckily, Valtellina knows exactly how to boost your spirit by soothing your mind and muscles.

When it comes to thermal baths, Bormio is one of the most renowned spots in the Alps with three lush locations to choose from: the family-friendly Bormio Terme, which operates within the Italian National Health Series; the jaw-dropping QC Terme Bagni Vecchi which fuses heritage with wellness and has a picture-perfect panoramic outdoor pool looking out over Bormio; and finally the QC Terme Bagni Nuovi with a number of tubs and outdoor pools spread around its sun-trap of a garden.

Another wellness wildcard comes in the form of Aquagranda Active You in Livigno, one of Europe’s biggest spas that unites athleticism with ah-so-relaxing wellness and a good time for every generation.

Explore all of the wellness offerings in Valtellina here https://www.valtellina.it/en/wellness

Pizzoccheri is the most representative dish for Valtellina’s cuisine. Made with buckwheat pasta and shaped like tagliatelle, it’s cooked with cabbage, potatoes, generous lashings of Alpine butter and local cheeses. Buckwheat has been grown on the local terraces for centuries, which is why it’s the staple ingredient of this meal.

However, as much as we rave about pizzoccheri, Valtellina also has a number of other fine foods that need to be tasted to be believed!

Disclaimer: this suggestion is not just suitable for all weathers, but essentially mandatory!

For more information: https://www.valtellina.it/en/tourist-activities/wine-and-food-experiences

Shopping in mountain towns can be a questionable affair but not when you’re talking about Valtellina. Livigno is something of a giant outdoor shopping centre with more than 250 shops set against a stunning Alpine backdrop. Inside exclusive boutiques and monobrand stores, you’ll find all the big names in fashion, as well charming stores selling artisan wares and high-tech products. And best of all: It’s all sold at duty-free prices!

Elsewhere, fashionistas should head to the shopping haven of Bormio, Tirano’s old town for charming, traditional stores and delis, while foodies and fashion-seekers will adore Sondrio. Be sure to get personal recommendations from the in-store staff—locals know best!
And finally, Morbegno and Chiavenna both have gorgeous pedestrianised town centres lined with shops selling local delicacies and products.

Un viaggio sul Trenino Rosso del Bernina, patrimonio UNESCO dal 2008, costituisce infine una buona alternativa per vivere un’esperienza incredibile nel cuore delle Alpi, anche in caso di maltempo. Lungo la tratta Tirano-St. Moritz, infatti, potrete scoprire paesaggi e ambienti davvero unici!

Who cares that the weather is bad when you’re on board the Trenino Rosso del Bernina moving through picture-book Alpine scenery? UNESCO listed since 2008, the Tirano to St Moritz train journey soars through a unique, ever-changing landscape that is worth experiencing in every meteorological condition.

For more information: https://www.valtellina.it/en/tourist-activities/bernina-express