We’re starting with the Valtellina Trail, a 114-kilometre cycle and walking path starting at Lake Como, following the Adda river across the valley floor and ending in Bormio.

A full-blown family-friendly greenway featuring moderate gradients and well-signed cycle routes in both directions, making it easy to navigate on two wheels. The trail is actually two separate paths: the Colico-Morbegno-Sondrio path and the Sondrio-Tirano-Bormio path.

One stopover along the first path worth mentioning is Morbegno, a lively town situated on the confluence of the Bitto valleys, leading to the valley’s two mountainsides divided by the Adda river.

Another place worth visiting is Sondrio, the main town in Valtellina and historical centre with Lombard origins found at the mouth of Valmalenco: must-see sights include the old Piazza Campello, the historical Via Scarpatetti with vistas of historical courtyards and galleries, and the Masegra Castle boasting a panorama of the historical town.

The second path starts 30 km from Sondrio in Tirano, the final destination of the Trenord Milan-Tirano line and the starting point of the iconic Bernina Express. Nestled in the narrowest point at the centre of Valtellina, this town is a must-see given its geographical position, making it an ideal starting point for many excursions, as well as its quaint historical centre, still surrounded by the walls erected by Ludovico il Moro, and the culinary specialities served in its trattorias.

After the obligatory jaunt through the Rock Engraving Park in Grosio, not to mention its striking castle, all that remains is to continue towards Bormio and the wonders of Alta Valtellina where you can go on incredible mountain bike excursions, relax in Bormio’s hot springs or enjoy pristine nature in the Stelvio National Park.