The Italian Alps invite you to a unique vacation in the heart of “Europe’s Little Tibet”
When most tourists think of the Alps, they imagine winter ski slopes. Meanwhile, Livigno – a picturesque resort on the Swiss-Italian border – is gearing up for a season that could completely change the outlook on alpine vacations. Summer at 1,816 meters above sea level is more than just an alternative to the traditional seaside vacation.
The cycling capital of the Alps is waiting to be discovered
What sets Livigno apart from other mountain destinations is the incredible wealth of bike routes. We’re talking about 3,200 kilometers of GPS-marked paths – a number that impresses even the most experienced cyclists.
Families with the youngest members will find a 17-kilometer trail along the valley, equipped with parking areas and playgrounds. Adrenaline seekers, on the other hand, can test themselves on the 14 downhill trails at Mottolino Bike Park or the 50 kilometers of flow trails at Mountain Park Carosello 3000.
A particularly interesting initiative is the Bike Skill Center, where professional instructors teach age-appropriate classes – from a “First Rides” program for toddlers to intensive “Ride and Jump” sessions for teens.
Aquagranda: when mountains meet luxury
Spread over 10,000 sq. m. is the Aquagranda complex, a place that redefines the concept of mountain relaxation. The Alpine Wellness Zone offers saunas with panoramic views of the peaks, while families can enjoy the Slide&Fun zone with three spectacular slides.
New this season is a heated outdoor pool, but the real gem remains DIVR®, a virtual snorkeling technology that allows you to “dive” into exotic locations without leaving your alpine resort.
Where Olympic champions train
The sports part of the complex, AQ1816, is not just a state-of-the-art gym or Olympic swimming pools. It’s the place where champions such as Federica Pellegrini and Gregorio Paltrinieri prepared before the Paris Games. More than 20 fitness classes a week, the KINEO functional system and professional outdoor facilities make this place a true center for high-performance sports.
Mountain trails with a modern approach
The Check&Go system is an innovation that sets Livigno apart on the map of European trekking destinations. QR codes at the beginning of each of the more than 1,500 kilometers of trails not only make it easier to choose the right route, but also increase the safety of tourists.
Particularly recommended are trips to alpine lakes – the turquoise Lach dal Mont trail or the mystical Lago Nero with its dark waters are places that stay in the memory for a long time.
Traditions that live
Livigno’s history dates back to the Middle Ages, and the local MUS Museum! brings the region’s heritage closer through authentic displays. Nearby Trepalle, at 2069 meters above sea level, is the highest permanently inhabited village in the country.
The calendar of summer cultural events includes the Livigno Folk Fest with a parade of regional costumes (July 31), the romantic Notte Nera (August 10), when the town is illuminated only by candles, and the Festa del Fen (August 24), a festival reminiscent of traditional hay harvesting methods.
A culinary journey through the flavors of the Alps
The local cuisine is a combination of mountain simplicity and Italian finesse. Pizzoccheri – buckwheat pasta with Casera cheese and potatoes – and bresaola are staples of the menu. At the local Latteria, you can watch cheese being handmade and taste ice cream prepared before your eyes.
On July 11, Sentiero Gourmet will be held – a 5-kilometer culinary trek combining tastings of local specialties with reinterpretations of traditional dishes.
Free shopping and evening life
A duty-free zone of more than 250 stores creates an open shopping center with prestigious brands. Local artisans offer products that draw on the traditions of the region, including Contrabbando’s proprietary gin or the board game “Filon: Al Plu Guz da Livign.”
Evening life revolves around the traditional Aperitivo, as well as venues such as the Marcos Pub with live music and the Bivio Club with DJ sets.
