Valtellina between nature parks and traditions to experience

From the peaks still sprinkled with snow to the cultivated valley bottoms, the Valtellina in spring presents itself as an integrated system of landscapes and local culture that offers visitors the opportunity to get to know this area in close contact with nature. The apple orchards and wild cherry trees in blossom colour the terraced slopes until the beginning of May and offer the pleasure of immersing oneself in this 'alpine hanami' by following itineraries such as the Strada del Vino between Ardenno and Tirano or the routes between vineyards and dry stone walls on the Rhaetian side. For hikers or mountain bikers, the choice is as wide as ever, ranging from the meadows and trails of the middle valley to the high mountain scenery of Alta Valtellina. There are three main protected areas that are also worth more than a visit. The Stelvio National Park, which extends over the area of Bormio and Livigno, is the perfect destination to get to know the high-altitude environments and conservation projects such as the reintroduction of the bearded vulture, a symbol of Alpine biodiversity. The Val di Mello Nature Reserve, with its granite walls and fairytale-like stretches of water (such as the so-called 'Bidet della Contessa') represents a model of integral protection and slow tourism, while the Pian di Spagna and Lago di Mezzola Nature Reserve, amidst reeds and lake waters, is one of the main wildlife corridors in northern Italia. Lastly, the cultural immersion in the Valtellina territory is very interesting, facilitated by the various ecomuseums spread throughout the area, from Valmalenco to the Terrazze Retiche of Bianzone, from Valgerola (where the figure of Homo Selvadego in the 'camera picta' stands out) to the Bitto valleys of Albaredo.

https://www.valtellina.it/