Livigno: The Most Beautiful Hikes and Walks

19 September 2024 • 5 minutes read

Livigno is a place where nature is the undisputed protagonist. Its hikes and walks offer the opportunity to fully immerse oneself in a breathtaking alpine landscape, where the wild beauty of the mountains meets the authenticity of its inhabitants.

With the variety of options available for exploring this corner of paradise, Livigno is a perfect destination for nature lovers, families seeking authentic adventures, and anyone wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and regain their balance in a relaxing environment.

1. A walk for all: the headwaters of the Adda River.

The Adda River originates right in the mountains around Livigno and with its 313 kilometers in length flows first into Lake Como and then resumes its course in the city of Lecco and pours into the Po River.

The hike to get to its headwaters starts from the Livigno Dairy P4 and begins with a level path along the driveway that runs along the right bank of the lake to Pont da li Ca'bra and refreshment da l'Alpasge'la.

From here, the trail runs within the Stelvio National Park, among pine forests in the first, steeper section, which gradually give way to larch and fir in the next section with a gentler gradient.

The hike takes two hours round trip, has a total length of about 8.5 kilometers and a maximum gradient of 22 percent in the short steepest sections, reaching an elevation of 2,287 meters.

Along the trail, from June to October, it is not uncommon to encounter hikers on mountain bikes and e-bikes and groups of children and young kids, especially during the school vacation period.

2. For e-bike enthusiasts: the lakes of Cancano.

This fascinating group of alpine lakes is nestled among the majestic mountains of the Alps at 1,991 meters above sea level, offering a breathtaking sight for anyone who ventures into the area.

Consisting of four main lakes - Lake Cancano, Lake St. James, Lake Nero and Lake Bianco - these crystal-clear bodies of water reflect the surrounding peaks and create a magical atmosphere.

To get to the lakes, one initially follows the same route to reach the headwaters of the Adda River, except then continues for about 4 kilometers through large meadows and alpine vegetation until arriving at the lakes' shores amid azure waters and pristine air.

Several activities offer e-bike rentals and organized tours to reach the lakes and enjoy breathtaking views all along the way. The area can also be reached starting from Bormio, and for the more daredevils and those contemptuous of fatigue, there is also the possibility of riding the entire stretch by mountain bike.

3. A walk with alpacas for a different hike than usual

These wonderful animals are docile and friendly, love to be petted and accompany young and old on easy walks surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the Stelvio National Park.

Alpacas are animals native to the mountains of South America, where they have been bred for centuries to obtain their soft wool, and are also well adapted to the climate of our Alps.

Walks with alpacas between Livigno and Bormio are an unusual choice that allows you to get in touch with and learn about these very special animals while discovering the wonders of the mountains surrounding Livigno together with a guide who will accompany you telling anecdotes and curiosities about the animals and the environment.

4. Crap de la Parè, a balcony overlooking Livigno

Crap de la Parè is a charming panoramic knoll that rises immediately south of Livigno Lake and north of Passo d'Eira.

Starting right from Passo d'Eira, halfway between Bormio and Livigno, this extraordinary place can be easily reached by a pleasant and easy walk, about 45 minutes long and with an approximate elevation gain of 190 meters arriving at an altitude of 2,393 meters above sea level.

It is the ideal hike for those who prefer a more accessible route or who have little time to spare but wish to immerse themselves in stunning scenery.

Precisely because of the low level of difficulty, the trail is also suitable for children although, as the bottom is uneven in places, it is not accessible with strollers.

It is also important to remember that there are no shelters or drinking fountains along the route, so it is good to leave equipped with enough water and packed lunch or snacks to eat along the way, especially in warmer weather.

Being a viewpoint, Crap de la Parè is a place to see and revisit in all seasons, to fully enjoy the colors and changes of nature. During the cold season, it is also possible to add the scenic area with snowmobile tours, for adrenaline lovers.

Livigno is a gem set among the mountains that offers experiences for all levels and tastes. A perfect destination for those who love breathtaking scenery, surrounded by nature, in all seasons.