Bormio is truly a winter paradise on earth and a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. This quaint Alpine town offers innumerable possibilities for a perfect winter holiday.
About Bormio
Bormio is located just south of the Swiss border in the Lombardy region at an elevation of 1,255 meters. Its just over 4,000 residents are accustomed to hosting the Alpine Ski World Cup every year and are preparing to host the Winter Olympics in 2026. This medieval town was on the main trade route between Venice and Switzerland but was already well-known by the Romans for its natural thermal baths. Today, tourists come to enjoy its historic town center, friendly people, delicious food, fantastic skiing, and hot springs.
Skiing
For good reason, Bormio has hosted multiple world skiing championships and is gearing up to host the Winter Olympics in 2026: there are fifty kilometers (30 miles) of marked ski runs! The longest run is 6 km (4 miles) and served by fifteen lifts and several ski schools. The Stelvio Run, named after the Stelvio Pass, is the second-longest downhill run on the World Cup circuit and one of the most challenging in the world. Bormio boasts a 1,800-meter altitude difference (from its highest at 3,000 meters).
But don’t think for a second that this skiers’ paradise is just for Olympians! Families and beginners will find their niche too with a snow park for freeskiers and snowboarders, a family park, and two “fun” slopes. Parents who have kids between the ages of 4 and 10 also have the option of signing their kids up for “mini club” which will entertain them in a safe environment while mom and dad enjoy the slopes. Visit BormioSki for more information.
Bormio’s Hot Springs
After a long day on the slopes, you can relax and relieve your aching muscles in a number of natural thermal baths. Bagni Vecchi (Old Baths), Bagni Nuovi (New Baths) and Terme di Bormio are three options during your stay. If you want to feel the thrill of experiencing the very same baths that the Romans did over two thousand years ago, then head to Bagni Vecchi with its Roman baths, grotto, and a panoramic outdoor pool overlooking Bormio’s basin. Bagni Nuovi offers over thirty different spa facilities including seven outdoor pools in a large, sunny garden available twelve months a year. Bormio Terme is the best bet for families as this facility offers play areas and swimming pools for young children. All of the locations boast the very latest and most innovative beauty and massage treatments as well as fabulous restaurants and shops.
The Town of Bormio
Bormio’s historic town center is charming and has several churches and museums as well as shops and restaurants. The Civic Museum has a nice collection of objects and artifacts pertaining to local mountain traditions and artisan crafts. Climb to the top of the Bajona Tower in Piazza Cavour for a beautiful view. You’ll most likely find the locals friendly and always willing to entertain with traditional folk songs and dance.
No stay would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. Bormio’s traditional dishes include Pizzoccheri alla Valtellinese (pasta with melted cheese, potatoes, and cabbage); chiscioi (buckwheat flour pancakes filled with cheese); pasta with venison sauce; and various local salamis and cured meats.
If you can’t visit in the winter not to worry because Bormio and the Valtellina are absolutely beautiful and an outdoorsman’s haven at any time of year!
