Mountain holidays in Italy: 5 destinations you can’t miss

It is difficult to talk about the summer holidays without uttering a sigh this year, especially if you’ve been dreaming of escaping the heat and seeking refuge up north. However, even though you might have to endure the heat, the good news is that even in Italy, there are places where you can find relief from the scorching sun. Whatever you like to do—whether it’s trekking, birdwatching or something else—if you are looking for a holiday to recharge your batteries, the ideal destination might not necessarily be far from home. To help you find the right break, we’ve prepared a list of 5 mountain holiday destinations in Italy, where you can find some inner peace and surround yourself with nature.

Located at the heart of the Val Pusteria, Brunico is a typical winter destination that’s also perfect for summer, thanks to its high-altitude hikes and walks through the woods. Plan de Corones is near the town—perhaps better known for its ski resorts—and offers interesting possibilities during the summer for hikers and paragliders, who flock here to appreciate the breathtaking views and crystal-clear air.

Then, there’s Brunico Castle, with its interactive MMM Ripa museum founded by Rheinold Messner, and dedicated to the inhabitants of these mountainous areas—an excellent choice for a cultural break, or for something to do on a rainy day.

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Next to the border with Austria and Slovenia—in the mountains of the Julian Alps—Malborghetto-Valbruna boasts a truly ancient history, including important ties to the Austro-Hungarian empire. With a maximum altitude of 807 meters above sea level, the landscape boasts forests, woods, lodges and pastures, and offers endless possibilities for relaxing nature walks.

For example, you can complete the Animalborghetto trail in approximately an hour, following a path that lets you admire 44 wooden statues carved by local artist Marina Gioitti. Portraying the animals of the forest, the hike serves as a magical scene that’s also perfect for an adventure with the kids!

And of course, cycling enthusiasts are also well catered-for on the Malborghetto-Valbruna. Why not explore the Alpe Adria cycle route? It’s a 435-km bicycle path that connects Salzburg to Grado, and runs right through this mountainous region.

At the foot of Monte Rosa, famed for its ski resorts, Alagna Valsesia is a hidden jewel dating back to the Walser people—the Germanic inhabitants who founded the settlements in this area back in the 13th century. Located in the Alta Valsesia Natural Park, it’s an important landmark for alpine tourism.

The river Sesia also flows through Alagna, and spills into a large and roaring waterfall—otherwise known as the “Sesia boilers”—a region of pristine beauty that has been formed by a glacier over the millennia. And if you wish to find out more about the local influence, culture, history and architecture of the Walser people, we also highly recommend you visit the Walser Museum in the village of Pedemonte.

Located on the slopes of Monte Sterpi d’Alto at 1,121 meters above sea level, Civitella Alfedena is a small medieval village set within the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park. The tower dates back from the 1300s with the stone houses and palaces clearly marking the village’s medieval origin.

Today, the 17th century church of San Nicola di Bari and the Museum of the Apennine Wolf are also well worth a visit. And hiking enthusiasts shouldn’t miss out on the trail that leads to the naturally-formed amphitheater in Camosciara, and the trail paths along the Barrea artificial lake—an oasis brimming with rare bird species.

Finally, there’s Gangi—nestled on Monte Barone at the foot of Mount Etna, at 1,011 meters above sea level. Overlooked by a 14th century castle, it’s a medieval village surrounded by walls with a thousand-year history. The town stands out for its ancient churches and its noble palaces, as well as for its fascinating archaeological museum. And unsurprisingly, thanks to its beauty and geographical importance, it’s considered one of the most picturesque villages in Italy, receiving the Borgo dei Borghi award in 2014.

Just outside the town’s perimeters, hiking lovers will also find ample opportunities to explore trails that follow paths that have been used for centuries by farmers and cattle herders.

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