8 Best Places to Hike in Italy

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Italy is home to some of the most diverse and memorable hiking experiences in Europe. From rugged mountain peaks to coastal trails overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this country offers routes for both casual walkers and experienced trekkers. Whether you’re exploring the jagged peaks of the Dolomites, the alpine landscapes of Mont Blanc, or the scenic wine routes of the Langhe region, each trail promises its own adventure. Spring is an ideal time to visit, with milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and blooming wildflowers adding extra beauty to the experience.

The Dolomites

The Dolomites are a mountain range in the Italian Alps, famous for their jagged limestone peaks and dramatic landscapes. Recognised by UNESCO for their outstanding beauty, they are often described as some of the most impressive mountain scenery in the world.

The Dolomites are ideal for hiking, with hundreds of trails ranging from easy walks through meadows and forests to challenging via ferratas — iron paths that were originally built during World War One for troop movement. The area also offers Alta Via routes, which are high-altitude multi-day trails with mountain hut accommodation. Booking in advance is recommended, particularly during summer weekends when tourists are more frequent. Winter limits hut options to lower elevations only.

The Dolomites are known as the “Pale Mountains” due to their light-coloured limestone rocks. At sunrise and sunset, a phenomenon called enrosadira causes the peaks to glow in shades of pink, orange, red, and purple. This striking visual effect is caused by the sun’s rays interacting with the mineral-rich rock, and it is considered one of the most beautiful natural spectacles in the region.

The geography of the Dolomites is unique, with limestone rock formations that are more fragile than other alpine rocks, resulting in crumbling cliffs and steep peaks. This creates an adventurous landscape with sharp ridges, deep valleys, and scenic mountain passes. Despite their challenging terrain, the Dolomites offer well-marked trails that range from leisurely nature walks to demanding mountaineering routes.

Wildlife is abundant in the Dolomites, particularly in the protected parks. Lower and mid-altitudes are rich in broadleaf and coniferous forests, while higher regions are home to alpine meadows and pastures. Animal sightings may include roe deer, red deer, ibex, chamois, and golden eagles. Smaller animals such as squirrels, foxes, hares, and martens are common at lower elevations.

Accommodation in the Dolomites ranges from rustic mountain refuges to comfortable bed and breakfasts in nearby villages. The mountain huts, or ‘rifugi’, are popular with hikers and provide warm meals, cosy beds, and a welcoming atmosphere. Booking in advance is highly recommended during peak seasons.

Notable Trails

• Passo Giau to Monte Mondeval
  
  • Distance: 12.8 km (7.9 miles)
  • Duration: 4-5 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Features: A circular route through the Mondeval Plateau, surrounded by limestone peaks. This area is rich in archaeological sites, and hikers can see the remains of prehistoric civilisations dating back thousands of years.
• Lago di Limo Trail
  
  • Distance: 18.6 km (11.5 miles)
  • Duration: 5-6 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Features: Scenic views in the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park with an ideal picnic stop by the turquoise Lago di Limo. The trail passes through meadows full of wildflowers in spring and offers broad views of the surrounding mountain peaks.
• Alta Via I
  
  • Distance: 115 km (72 miles)
  • Duration: 6-10 days
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Features: A multi-day route through alpine meadows, rock formations, and the iconic Cinque Torri. The trail includes dramatic cliff paths, extensive viewpoints, and the chance to stay in welcoming mountain refuges along the way.

Here is a video showcasing 5 of the Best Hikes in the Dolomites:

Monte Bianco (Mont Blanc)

Monte Bianco is the highest peak in the Alps and attracts hikers seeking dramatic glaciers and rocky landscapes. The mountain’s iconic snow-capped peaks are visible from miles away, making it a highlight of the region. The area is busiest in winter and summer, but spring and autumn are quieter periods with better wildlife encounters. Accommodation in this area is generally more expensive, with a mix of luxurious hotels and traditional mountain refuges.

Notable Trails

• Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB)
  • Distance: 166 km (103 miles)
  • Duration: 7-11 days
  • Elevation gain: 9289m (30,475 ft)
  • Highest point: 2532m (8307 ft)
  • Features: This famous trail loops around Mont Blanc and crosses three countries: France, Italy, and Switzerland. It offers views of snowy peaks, glaciers, rivers, and green valleys. The trail is suitable for most keen hikers and determined beginners. Highlights include Lac Blanc with its reflective views of Mont Blanc, and alpine wildlife like ibex, marmots, and birds of prey. Hikers will also pass traditional mountain chalets and farming villages, giving a glimpse of local life. The trek is varied, with forested areas, rocky trails, and grassy pastures. The Tour du Mont Blanc route also offers varied experiences, such as wobbly suspension bridges crossing mountain streams, and high-altitude passes with far-reaching alpine views. The path is not technically difficult but does involve significant ascents and descents.

Gran Paradiso National Park

Gran Paradiso was Italy’s first national park (established in 1922), and is known for its wildlife and alpine scenery. It was originally a royal hunting reserve, and its symbol, the ibex, was saved from extinction here. The park offers a mix of easy walking paths and challenging alpine trekking routes. The Orco Valley is a favourite for winter hikes.

The park’s varied terrain includes glaciers, rocky peaks, lush meadows, and dense forests. Gran Paradiso is especially famous for its ibex population, which can often be spotted relaxing on rocky slopes. Marmots are also common, particularly in spring when they emerge from hibernation.

Accommodation options range from rustic unguarded huts in remote regions to comfortable lodges and hotels in nearby villages.

Notable Trails

• Noasca: The Vallone del Roc
  
  • Walking time: 4 hours
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Features: A loop route through ancient villages and historical sites.
• Rhêmes-Notre-Dame: The Valley Floor
  
  • Walking time: 1 hour
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Features: A paved path accessible to wheelchair users, ideal for a relaxing stroll.
• Valsavarenche: Eaux Rousses
  
  • Walking time: 8 hours (hunting lodge) + 1 hour (to Djouan Lake)
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Features: A forested route with iron-rich springs and a scenic lake.

Monte Rosa and Matterhorn

The Monte Rosa and Matterhorn region is home to some of the most impressive peaks and glaciers in the Alps. Located on the border between Italy and Switzerland, this area offers a combination of rugged mountain landscapes, high-altitude trails, and traditional alpine villages. The towering Dufour Peak, standing at 4,634 metres, is the second highest peak in the Alps and dominates the Monte Rosa massif.

The glaciers of Monte Rosa are among the largest in the Alps, adding to the dramatic scenery. This region is ideal for hikers looking to explore high-altitude routes with rewarding views. Although some trails pass through well-known tourist areas, there are also quieter paths that lead to remote mountain huts and less-visited valleys. Many hikers choose inn-to-inn treks that combine challenging routes with relaxing evenings in warm and welcoming mountain lodges.

The Matterhorn, known as Cervino in Italian, is one of the most iconic mountains in the world, with its distinct pyramid shape attracting climbers and hikers alike.

While the area offers breathtaking scenery, it is also known for being busier than some quieter regions of the Italian Alps. The Matterhorn and Monte Rosa attract mountaineers, tourists, and hikers, particularly in the summer and winter seasons. However, by visiting during spring or autumn, hikers can enjoy the region with fewer crowds and better opportunities to spot wildlife.

Notable Trails

• Tour of Monte Rosa
  
  • Distance: 167 km (104 miles)
  • Duration: 6-14 days
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Features: A route through pastoral valleys and rocky glaciers with comfortable mountain accommodations.

If you’d like to learn more about the Monte Rosa Route, Much Better Adventures has a comprehensive guide for this beautiful area.

• Tour of the Matterhorn
  
  • Distance: 150 km (93 miles)
  • Features: Circles the iconic Matterhorn mountain, passing through alpine pastures and turquoise lakes.

If you’d like to learn about the Matterhorn Circuit, Much Better Adventures has another comprehensive guide that could help you plan your hikes.

Lake Maggiore Hiking Area

Lake Maggiore is a large lake located between Piedmont and Lombardy in northern Italy. The hiking trails in this region provide a mix of mountain landscapes, forested paths, and lakeside views. The area also borders Switzerland, allowing for cross-border hiking routes.

Lake Maggiore is situated in Val Grande National Park, one of the most remote and unspoiled wilderness areas in Italy. Though the park lacks towering peaks, it offers rugged terrain ideal for hikers seeking a true adventure. Val Grande is filled with old mule tracks, hidden villages, and lush forests.

Wildlife sightings in the Lake Maggiore region are relatively rare, but those exploring Val Grande National Park may encounter roe deer, chamois, and even wolves in more remote areas. The region is also known for its diverse birdlife, including eagles and various types of woodpeckers.

Accommodation options include lakeside hotels, bed and breakfasts in mountain villages, and remote huts in Val Grande for those seeking a wilder experience.

Notable Trails

• Bove Path
  
  • Distance: 36 km (22 miles)
  • Features: A challenging circular route known for its varied terrain, including forests, rocky ridges, and exposed paths. The trail is best suited for experienced hikers due to the difficult elevation changes.
• Sacro Monte di Ghiffa Trail
  
  • Distance: 8.9 km (5.5 miles)
  • Duration: 3.5 hours
  • Features: This path winds through woodlands and past ancient rock carvings, with broad views over Lake Maggiore. The trail also passes historic chapels and offers a combination of cultural and natural experiences.

Turin Alps

The Turin Alps, located in northwest Italy, offer a variety of hiking experiences across three key valleys: the Susa Valley, the Chisone Valley, and the Lanzo Valley. Each of these valleys offers distinct landscapes, from forested trails to high-altitude paths that lead to scenic viewpoints and historical landmarks. The region is less crowded than other parts of the Italian Alps, making it an excellent destination for those seeking a quieter hiking experience.

The region is rich in history, with several trails passing by medieval fortresses, old military roads, and ancient pilgrimage paths. The Turin Alps are particularly rewarding in spring when the snow has melted from the lower trails, revealing green meadows and blooming flowers. Wildlife enthusiasts may encounter ibex, chamois, and marmots, especially in the more remote areas.

Accommodation options in the Turin Alps include mountain huts, bed and breakfasts, and hotels in nearby villages. While some huts offer rustic conditions suited to experienced hikers, there are also comfortable lodgings with modern amenities for those seeking a more relaxed stay.

Susa Valley

The Susa Valley is a historic route connecting Italy and France, with trails that follow ancient Roman roads and military paths. The valley is dotted with historical sites such as the Sacra di San Michele monastery and several old forts.

• Susa Valley Balcony Trail
  • Distance: 183.8 km (114 miles)
  • Features: A multi-day loop trail that follows the natural contours of the valley, offering extensive views of the surrounding peaks. The trail connects several villages, providing opportunities to experience local culture and cuisine.
• Mount Rocciamelone
  • Height: 3,538 metres
  • Features: A challenging climb that leads to a statue of the Madonna at the summit. The mountain is a popular site for religious pilgrimages, with rewarding views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
• Via Francigena Variant Susa Valley, Segment 2
  • Distance: 27.2 km (17 miles)
  • Duration: 6.5 hours
  • Features: A demanding trail that winds through varied landscapes, including forests, meadows, and rocky mountain passes. This route is part of the historic Via Francigena pilgrimage path that once connected Canterbury to Rome.

Chisone Valley

The Chisone Valley is known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. It offers a mix of easy walks, moderate hikes, and challenging mountain trails. The valley is famous for its role in the Waldensian religious movement, and hikers can visit historic villages and sites connected to this community.

• Val Troncea Natural Park
  • Features: This protected area offers a network of trails leading to alpine huts, lakes, and scenic viewpoints. The park is rich in flora and fauna, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
• San Germano Chisone Area
  • Features: This region offers a variety of hiking routes suitable for all skill levels, from gentle forest paths to more challenging mountain trails. Many routes pass through traditional villages and offer views of the surrounding peaks.

The Chisone Valley is also popular for rock climbing, with cliffs that cater to both beginners and experienced climbers.

Lanzo Valley

The Lanzo Valley is a remote and rugged area ideal for those seeking wilderness hiking experiences. The valley is filled with wild trails, forested slopes, and rocky peaks. As a result, it offers some of the most adventurous trekking routes in the region.

• Lanzo Valleys Wild Trail
  • Features: This five-day trek offers a true back-to-nature experience, starting with wooded trails and lakes before progressing to steep and rocky mountain routes. The trail includes overnight stays in unguarded huts, giving hikers a true taste of mountain solitude.
• Grande Traversata delle Alpi (GTA)
  • Features: This historic trail crosses the Lanzo Valleys, passing through scenic landscapes and small villages. The GTA offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for seasoned hikers.
• Lago di Malciaussia
  • Elevation: 1,805 metres
  • Features: This scenic lake is a popular starting point for mountain hikes, including routes that lead to peaks like Rocciamelone. The area is ideal for day hikes or as part of longer alpine treks.

The Lanzo Valley is also known for its opportunities to fish, forage for edible plants, and even try paragliding. In winter, it offers options for cross-country skiing and curling, adding to the region’s appeal for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.

Langhe Alps

The Langhe Alps are known for their rolling hills, vineyards, and traditional Italian culture. This region is less mountainous than the Dolomites or the Turin Alps but offers scenic trails through wine-producing villages and forested landscapes. The Langhe region is especially popular with food and wine lovers. After a day of hiking, visitors can enjoy locally produced wines, cheeses, and truffles.

Notable Trails

• Bar to Bar Trail
  
  • Features: A route connecting the wine towns of Barbaresco and Barolo. This trail winds through vineyards and rolling hills, offering a combination of exercise and cultural experiences.
• Grande Traversata delle Langhe (GTL)
  
  • Features: A long-distance trail that crosses the Langhe region, offering views of farms, forests, and historical villages. The GTL is ideal for hikers seeking a mix of nature and local traditions.

Mediterranean Riviera

The Mediterranean Riviera offers coastal trails with views of the sea, rocky cliffs, and hillside villages. Spring is an ideal time to hike this region, as the weather is warm yet not too hot. The area is famous for its mix of coastal paths and inland trails, with opportunities to explore fishing villages and historic sites. This is an opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture, enjoy their cuisines, and experience a slice of life on the Mediterranean.

Notable Trails

• Cinque Terre Trail
  
  • Features: This UNESCO World Heritage route connects five historic coastal villages. The path winds through vineyards and along steep coastal cliffs, providing views of the Ligurian Sea.
• GR20 Trail (Corsica)
  
  • Distance: 180 km (112 miles)
  • Features: One of Europe’s most challenging long-distance hikes, the GR20 crosses the mountainous island of Corsica. The trail features granite peaks, glacial lakes, and rugged ridges.
• Samaria Gorge Trail (Crete)
  
  • Distance: 16 km (10 miles)
  • Features: This trail leads through a dramatic limestone canyon with steep rock faces and mountain streams. The route ends in the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, where hikers can cool off in the sea.
• French Riviera Coastal Paths
  
  • Features: This series of coastal trails offers routes with red volcanic rocks, winding paths above the sea, and links to historic villages and small beaches.

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