Whenever anyone thinks of a mountain holiday, the first things that comes to mind naturally is winter skiing, exciting slopes, cosy restaurants and a distinctive Christmas vibe. Little do they know that the mountains are particularly fulfilling in summer as well. Italy boasts the world’s most gorgeous mountains, and if your dream is escaping the tourists and immersing yourself in nature, Italy’s mountain peaks offer the solution. Let’s see some of the most stunning Italian mountain locations in summer.
1. The Dolomites
The Dolomites are a dream come true, with their peaks and valleys that appear to rise out of the earth in wild, inspiring shapes. In summer, the Dolomites are a rainbow makeover bursting with flowers, greenery, and blue lakes. The Dolomites also offer world-class trekking. You can trek on the renowned Tre Cime di Lavaredo trail, where the views are nothing short of spectacular. If you’re into mountain biking or rock climbing, there are many opportunities to test your mettle. But if you’re looking for something less demanding, the villages like Ortisei and Canazei offer a perfect mix of local culture and good food.
2. The Alps, Cortina d’Ampezzo and Madonna di Campiglio
Stretching across northern Italy, the Alps are the biggest and most famous mountain range in Europe. The region has some of Italy’s most desirable holiday destinations, including Cortina d’Ampezzo, Madonna di Campiglio, and the Aosta Valley. While they’re in vogue during their wintersports, they are also a summer paradise, with exploration on foot or by bike to mere sunbathing around tranquil lakes.
Cortina d’Ampezzo is a beautiful alpine town set among dramatic peaks. In summer, it’s a walker’s paradise, with trails leading you through green forests and up to dramatic vistas. If you’re a cyclist, there are miles of scenic routes with challenging climbs and exhilarating descents. After a day of discovery, you can unwind in a café and indulge in the casual yet sophisticated atmosphere of this beautiful resort town.
Madonna di Campiglio, within the Brenta Dolomites, is another jewel. It’s known for alpine lakes with clear waters, trekking and village scenery. It’s a more relaxed choice than some of the larger towns but still has plenty of opportunity for outdoor pursuits, set against a landscape of mountains and forests.
3. Valle d’Aosta
Located in the heart of the Alps, it’s a destination that’s famous for having outstanding natural landscapes, medieval strong holds, and two of the highest peaks in Europe, the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc. This small but effective region is perfect for people seeking a close-to-the-mountain experience.
The charming villages like Cogne and Courmayeur are a glimpse into the region’s history, and it’s the kind of place where you can live outdoors, but still enjoy the comforts of local culture.
4. Cervinia
Cervinia is one of the less common but gorgeous places that is ideal in summer and winter alike. Famous for ski resorts and Matterhorn scenery, Cervinia is a popular choice for those in search of alpine adventure. But summer is when the place is a home of preference for the great outdoorsman as well as for people who simply want to relax.
Cervinia has unlimited opportunities for walking and trekking, and paths running across glaciers offering truly breathtaking vistas. The town itself is lively, with an informal ambiance and out-of-this-world views in which you can pass the time sipping coffee on the balcony of one of the town’s cafés. For pure luxury, you must not miss a luxury après-ski at night in Cervinia. Summer or winter, the Cervinia après-ski is well worth it in itself, where you can unwind in style with gourmet food and the breathtaking mountain views. The experience is unforgettable.
5. Gran Paradiso National Park
Gran Paradiso National Park is a paradise for nature lovers, and it’s Italy’s first national park. Located in the western Alps, the park boasts a stunning diversity of wildlife like ibex, marmots, and golden eagles. In summer, the park has gorgeous greenery and sparkling glacial lakes that are perfect for sunbathing or wading in the water.
Gran Paradiso is the perfect escape for anyone looking to reconnect with nature. The park’s trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, making it a great destination.
6. Lake Como and surrounding mountains
Although Lake Como is famous for its stunning lakeside scenery, the mountains that encircle it are not to be missed, as the stunning panoramic views that are absolutely breathtaking. In summer, hiking trails around Lake Como offer some of Italy’s most stunning views, with trails that wind through dense forests and offer stunning views over the lake. The Sentiero del Viandante path, which hugs the east bank of Lake Como, is a stunning route, with wonderful views of the lake and nearby mountains. Don’t miss a visit to lakeside towns of Bellagio, and Menaggio, where you can unwind in a relaxing, idyllic atmosphere.
The mountains provide an experience unmatched, winter or summer. So lay aside the typical beaches and busy cities the next time you’re planning a break— magic is waiting among the mountains.
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