Big loops in Italy’s little Tibet – Livigno by mountain bike

This Collection includes five circular itineraries that start and finish in Livigno. Each is an unforgettable ride in the Italian Alps along the Swiss border. You immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes – provided you can make it up the climbs.

Mountains reflecting onto the Cancano lakes, Carosello 3000 mountain, the remains of the Torri di Fraele, Val Federia’s views and countless alpine lakes in pastures – these are just some of the unique places you'll pass while rolling on your mountain bike.

Located 1,800 metres (5,905 ft) above sea level, Livigno is also known as ‘little Tibet’. A plateau in the heart of the Rhaetian Alps, the area shares some surprising common features with these Himalayan lands such as geomorphological characteristics and year-round cold temperatures. The region’s beauty, however, is heart-warming.

Speaking of temperatures, the proposed Tours take place between 2,000 and 3,000 metres (6,500 and 9,800 ft). You cross passes like the Passo della Forcala and Passo di Valle alpisella that, depending on snowfall, may be closed during winter.

To be on the safe side, I suggest exploring these Tours between May and November. Don’t forget to check if the passes are open before you venture outdoors, especially during the winter months.

You find refreshment stops along all the Tours. Welcoming refuges and mountain huts, typical of Alta Valtellina, invite you to replenish your energy reserves and refill your water bottle, ready to face the most demanding slopes.

If you can, travel to Livigno sustainably: by bike or public transport. The nearest station is Tirano, around 70 kilometres (43 mi) away. Frequent connections run from Milan (Central Station and Porta Garibaldi Station) daily. The trains usually coincide with the Perego bus line to Bormio and Livigno.

If you can’t avoid driving, travel through Lecco and Bormio and cross the Foscagno Pass to Livigno. Make sure you have snow chains if you drive between November and April.

These Tours are designed for experienced riders who can stay on their saddle and keep smiling for several hours. They are for lovers of steep climbs and the taste of sweat and conquest.

Considering the significant elevation gain, I recommend riding a mountain bike. You will be able to face the climbs more easily without giving up the joys of the descent.

If you have legs of steel and an iron will, you will fall madly in love with these places, forgiving them for your frozen fingers and burning calves.