Trentino, a picturesque region in northern Italy famed for its alpine beauty and cultural richness, has launched an ambitious new tourism initiative: Via delle Valli, a curated network of 50 interconnected hiking trails designed to promote sustainable tourism, local engagement, and deep ecological immersion in the UNESCO-listed Dolomites.
Unveiled by the Trentino Tourism Board, this expansive hiking project aims to reveal the lesser-known valleys of the region, far from the well-trodden paths of mainstream tourism. Spanning a wide spectrum of difficulty levels, these trails wind through some of Italy’s most dramatic natural landscapes—from the rugged Brenta Dolomites to the peaceful shores of Lake Idro.
A Trail Network Bridging Peaks and Valleys
Via delle Valli is more than just a collection of paths—it is a transformative hiking experience that encourages visitors to explore Trentino in a slower, more reflective way. The trails range from family-friendly lowland routes to demanding high-altitude treks across glaciers and alpine passes.
Starting from Madonna di Campiglio, one of Italy’s premier ski resorts, the trail network stretches toward Lake Idro, offering a wide range of seasonal landscapes—from snow-capped peaks to wildflower-dotted alpine meadows. Along the way, hikers encounter landmarks such as the Adamello Glacier, Italy’s largest, and hidden natural treasures like the Lago Nero and Lago Vedretta.
Each route is designed to invite personal reflection, making the journey not just physical but emotional and cultural. “We want guests to discover Trentino’s soul,” said Loredana Bonazza, project manager at Trentino Marketing. “The Via delle Valli is about rediscovering forgotten paths and communities—both ecological and human.”
Sustainability and Community at the Core
In alignment with the region’s eco-conscious values, the Via delle Valli places sustainability at the heart of its mission. Trails have been developed with minimal environmental disruption, prioritizing existing paths and respecting the fragile ecosystems of the Dolomites.
A “Valley Passport” program incentivizes return visits and engagement with local communities. Hikers can collect stamps from each valley visited, which helps drive foot traffic across the region’s smaller villages and supports local businesses.
To deepen the cultural exchange, each valley has its own local ambassador—residents trained to share the traditions, wildlife, history, and folklore of their respective areas. One such ambassador is Debora Rambaldini, the first female forest ranger of Val Nambrone, who regularly leads wildlife treks and nature walks. “Every time I walk these paths, I discover something new,” she said. “I hope visitors leave with that same sense of wonder.”
A Trail for Every Traveler
Whether you’re a solo backpacker seeking rugged alpine challenges or a family in search of accessible nature walks, Via delle Valli has something for everyone. Some routes are ideal for quick day hikes, while others invite multi-day treks with overnight stays in rifugi (mountain huts) or local inns.
Among the highlights is the Val d’Amola, known for its dramatic, rocky terrain and panoramic vistas from the Bocchetta de l’Om pass. Nearby, the serene Val Nambrone offers a softer contrast with its green pastures, blooming alpine flora, and the ethereal blue waters of Lago Vedretta, perched at 2,600 meters. These stark landscape shifts emphasize the geographical diversity of Trentino’s valleys.
Shifting the Narrative: From Mass to Mindful Tourism
This initiative marks a strategic shift in Trentino’s tourism model—one that moves away from crowded hotspots toward more mindful, nature-based travel. The Via delle Valli project is envisioned as a way to reduce pressure on popular sites like Madonna di Campiglio by redirecting visitors to less frequented but equally rewarding destinations.
With trails designed to be enjoyed year-round, the project also boosts regional tourism in the shoulder seasons. Whether blanketed in springtime alpine flowers or under a canopy of autumn foliage, each valley offers a unique visual and sensory experience.
Trentino’s regional government has supported the initiative through investment in signage, digital trail maps, and environmentally sensitive infrastructure. Future phases may include trail extensions, augmented reality apps, and integration with regional transport systems to reduce car use.
A Walk That Transforms
Ultimately, the Via delle Valli is an invitation to slow down, reconnect with nature, and rediscover a part of Italy that thrives on authenticity. It is not just a tourism product but a cultural manifesto—one that reminds visitors that walking through a landscape can also mean walking into a new way of seeing.
For international travelers seeking an alternative to Italy’s crowded cities and over-visited coastal towns, Trentino’s new trail network offers a compelling reason to head north—and lace up their boots.
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