Where to holiday in the mountains in August 2023

Looking for inspiration for a holiday in the mountains? A tour of Valtellina will be as unique as it gets.

August is the ideal time of year for a holiday in the mountains, rewarding you with wellness and detox. So, what are the top tips and unmissable sites for a last-minute summer holiday in Valtellina? Let’s see…

Valtellina is a mountainous valley close to Milan, where your holiday itinerary will be packed with fun, fascinating things to do and see for all the family. Whether you’re coming by car, camper, as a couple, with friends, family or your pet dog, there’s no shortage of activities to render your last-minute holiday one to remember.

For a single day or 10 days of an unforgettable holiday this summer, Valtellina is well worth the trip. Set to co-host the Winter Olympics in 2026, Valtellina is all about good food, unspoiled nature, and invigorating fresh mountain air. 

Start in this spectacular valley for an abundance of activities over the next two days. Explore the Pian di Spagna Nature Reserve, stroll the streets of charming Chiavenna, cruise along the bike path, hike in the mountains up high in Madesimo, admire the sunset, get splashed by the rugged Acquafraggia falls, and fall head over heels for the elegant Palazzo Vertemate Franchi. What else? Oh yes, pile your plate with exquisite Valchiavennesca cuisine in one of the many charming crotti, the area’s traditional cave-like restaurants.

Travel the short distance from Chiavenna for your next two days in Morbegno, Valmasino and Valgerola. This part of Valtellina is particularly child-friendly. Explore historic shops where you can taste regional delicacies before crossing the highest Tibetan-style bridge in Europe that spans Val Tartano. Once you’re down from those dizzy heights, take a dip in the crystal clear lakes in Val Masino or spend a day cycling along the traffic-free Sentiero Valtellina.

Travelling with a partner or friends? Check out river rafting or take a hit of adrenaline and experience Fly Emotion by soaring from one mountainside to another. 

A stop in the province’s capital of Sondrio is basically mandatory. The city will wow you with a shopping tour, an aperitivo, a stroll up to Castel Masegra or around the city’s museum. Then hop on your bike to discover the hidden villages in Valmalenco and the mountain huts before switching to your hiking shoes to explore the landscape. 

Moving into the central part of Valtellina for this summer holiday in August 2023, make sure you arrive in Teglio with an empty stomach so you can enjoy a plate of the traditional Pizzoccheri at one of the official restaurants certified by the Accademia del Pizzocchero. You can also try your hand at a cooking class with one of the renowned academy chefs and discover the secrets of this buckwheat-based pasta. Make time to visit the stunning Palazzo Besta after your culinary adventures.

Tirano is an integral stop this summer. This lively town on the Italian/Swiss border is where you can hop on board the UNESCO-listed Bernina Express train for a breathtaking experience that all the family will enjoy. Other highlights to create a trip of a lifetime for kids this summer include a visit to the Rock Engraving Park in Grosio and the Osservatorio Eco Faunistico Alpino observatory in Aprica. 

Round off your Valtellina tour and summer mountain adventure by heading to Bormio and Livigno at the top of the valley, soon to be co-host of the Winter Olympics 2026.

While wild beauty will be found on hikes through Val Viola and in Valfurva, a stroll through Bormio’s charming old town is another must. Water-based activities in Bormio pack a punch and kids will love the Bormio Terme. For parents, couples and groups of friends, a day at the luscious thermal baths – either the well-preserved Bagni Vecchi or the more modern Bagni Nuovi – will be a holiday highlight.

Love shopping? Whatever you’re after, you’re in the right place in Livigno. You can also cycle, stroll or go horse riding here, with many family-friendly options to choose from. And did we mention what a relaxing and fun day you can have at Acquagrande?