Tucked away in the northern reaches of Italy, Stelvio National Park offers a breathtaking mix of jagged peaks, glacier-fed streams, and alpine meadows. Spanning Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, this is one of Europe’s oldest and most scenic protected areas. Whether you’re road tripping, hiking, or looking for a family-friendly alpine adventure, Stelvio delivers unforgettable views and fresh mountain air.
Discovering Stelvio National Park Lombardy
On the Lombardy side, nature and history go hand in hand. From the wellness town of Bormio, known for its Roman baths, to the dizzying switchbacks of the Stelvio Pass, the landscapes shift from forested valleys to icy peaks. The Forni Glacier, Italy’s largest valley glacier, awaits trekkers. Stelvio National Park Lombardy is a perfect playground for wildlife lovers, hikers, and cyclists alike.
Why Stelvio Should Be on Your Bucket List
Epic alpine scenery
Hiking and cycling routes for all levels
Summer glacier skiing
Historic thermal spas in Bormio
One of Europe’s most scenic drives: Stelvio Pass
Wildlife including ibex, chamois, marmots, and golden eagles
Best Time to Visit Stelvio National Park
Plan your visit between June and September for trail access and clear skies. July and August are best for outdoor activities, though busiest. May and October are quieter and filled with blooming or golden foliage. In winter, the region transforms into a snowy haven for ski touring and snowshoe hikes. Keep in mind: the Stelvio Pass is usually open from late May to early November, snow permitting.
Getting to Stelvio National Park
Fly into Milan-Malpensa, Bergamo-Orio al Serio, or Verona Villafranca. Continue by train to Tirano, then a bus to Bormio. Driving? The SS38 road takes you straight into the heart of the park. In summer, park-run shuttles and e-bike rentals offer a green way to explore.
The Iconic Stelvio Pass Road Trip
Voted one of the world’s most beautiful drives, the Stelvio Pass climbs to 2,757 meters with 48 hairpin turns. This thrilling road connects Bormio with South Tyrol and is a magnet for drivers, bikers, and cyclists. If you dare, join the Re Stelvio event in mid-July, when the pass is closed to cars and given over to cyclists and runners.
Ortler Hiking Routes and Glacier Adventures
The Ortler-Cevedale Massif dominates the park. Try the High-Ortler Trail for multi-day treks or go for a half-day hike to the Forni Glacier for stunning ice-front views. Families and beginners will find plenty of well-marked, gentle trails suitable for shorter hikes and picnics.
Wildlife Watching in Stelvio National Park
The park is a sanctuary for wildlife. Look out for:
Ibex on rocky crags
Marmots chirping in flowered meadows
Golden eagles gliding over peaks
Chamois in the early morning light
Join a ranger-guided tour for a better chance to spot them and learn about the park’s conservation work.
Recharge at the Bormio Thermal Baths
After a day in the wild, relax in Bormio’s thermal spas. Choose Bagni Vecchi for ancient Roman pools carved into the cliffs, or go modern at Bagni Nuovi. Both offer sweeping mountain views and wellness treatments to recharge tired muscles.
Summer Skiing and Snow Fun
Yes, skiing in summer is possible! The Stelvio Glacier ski area typically opens from June through early November. Watch professional athletes train, or take to the slopes yourself. In winter, smaller ski areas like Santa Caterina Valfurva and Bormio 2000 offer scenic, less crowded skiing.
Top Things to Do in Stelvio National Park
Drive the legendary Stelvio Pass
Hike to the Forni Glacier
Soak in Bormio thermal spas
Visit the Naturatrafoi Visitor Centre
Walk historic WWI trails and bunkers
Dine on mountain cuisine in traditional rifugi
Explore valleys by e-bike
Family-Friendly Activities
Families will love these easy, educational outings:
Cross the Rabbi Valley suspension bridge
Discover hidden waterfalls in Val di Peio
Enjoy scenic picnics beside alpine lakes
Learn at hands-on exhibits in Aquaprad
Responsible Travel Tips
Stay on trails to protect alpine ecosystems
Carry cash (some rifugi don’t accept cards)
Drones require permits
Dogs must be leashed
Dress in layers – mountain weather changes quickly
Where to Stay Near Stelvio National Park
Bormio offers easy access, charming lodgings, and excellent cuisine. For a true alpine experience, spend a night in a rifugio along one of the many hiking routes.
Top-rated Hotels in Bormio
1. 🔍Hotel San Vitale
Modern boutique hotel in the center of Bormio. Features stylish rooms, a spa with sauna and steam room, and excellent breakfast with artisanal pastries. Covered parking available.
Rating: 9.5/10
2. 🔍Sottovento Luxury Hospitality
All-suite hotel near the ski lifts. Offers mountain-view balconies, private spa (hot tub, Turkish bath, sauna), and a renowned in-house pastry shop.
Rating: 9.6/10
3. 🔍Eden Hotel
Contemporary design hotel near the cableway. Spacious rooms, small spa area, secure bike storage, and a generous breakfast buffet.
Rating: 9.3/10
4. 🔍Hotel Baita Dei Pini
Traditional alpine-style hotel close to town, lifts, and thermal baths. Known for refined cuisine and cycling facilities.
Rating: 9.0/10
5. 🔍Hotel San Lorenzo
Centrally located with a wellness area and free shuttle to ski slopes. Clean rooms, made-to-order breakfast, and free parking.
Rating: 9.0/10
Top-rated Villas&Chalets in Bormio
1. 🔍Al Bait Ross
Modern one-bedroom apartment just 50 m from the gondola. Features a private garden, underground parking, ski and bike storage, and laundry facilities.
Rating: 9.8/10
2. 🔍K2 Home
Renovated holiday home with mountain views, sun terrace, private gym, ski room, and bike workshop. Ideal for cyclists and outdoor lovers.
Rating: 9.7/10
3. 🔍Chalet dei Reparti
Spacious chalet apartments for up to 10 guests. Includes full kitchen, garden, patio, garage, and ski/bike storage. Great for families or groups.
Rating: 9.6/10
4. 🔍Chalet Heidi
Charming wooden chalet near the old town. Offers panoramic terrace, kitchen, private parking, and welcoming hosts.
Rating: 9.6/10
5. 🔍Chalet al Tabià
Stylish converted stone barn in the town center. Beam-and-wood interiors, kitchenettes, smart key access, and free covered parking nearby.
Rating: 9.5/10
Top-rated Apartments in Bormio
1. 🔍Quattropassi Bormio
Stylish two-bedroom apartment just steps from the historic center. Features a full kitchen, private parking, and exceptional cleanliness.
Rating: 9.9/10
2. 🔍Appartamento “Reit”
Ground-floor unit with garden and mountain views. Includes a full kitchen, washing machine, indoor parking, and ski/bike storage.
Rating: 9.8/10
3. 🔍Bormio Cozy Gem
Modern one-bedroom apartment in the pedestrian zone. Offers a balcony, smart kitchen, fast Wi-Fi, and helpful local host.
Rating: 9.7/10
4. 🔍Lidia & Orfeo
Bright two-bedroom apartment with a panoramic balcony, washer–dryer, and free parking. Just a short walk from town.
Rating: 9.6/10
5. 🔍Agriturismo La Stalla
Chic farmhouse apartments on the edge of Bormio. Features garden views, full kitchens, a playground, and great value.
Rating: 9.5/10
FAQs About Stelvio National Park
Is Stelvio Pass open year-round?
No. It’s usually open from late May to early November.
Can I explore Stelvio National Park without a car?
Yes. Use trains, buses, and summer shuttles.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Rangers offer seasonal hikes and wildlife experiences.
Is the park good for kids?
Absolutely! There are easy hikes and fun educational centres.
Can I ski at Stelvio?
Yes. The Stelvio Glacier allows summer skiing, and nearby resorts are open in winter.
Ready to Explore the Wild Heart of Lombardy?
Whether you’re into high-mountain hiking, hairpin road trips, or spa relaxation, Stelvio National Park Lombardy has it all. This authentic alpine gem deserves a place on your travel itinerary.
Lace up your boots, pack your camera, and let the adventure begin!
Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links. This means that we get a small commission from any purchase you make, at no additional cost to you!
