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