Photo from tourism.milan.it

Livigno is a tourist location known on an International level and called “Little Tibet” for its altitude of 1,816 metres above sea level. It is located at the centre of the Rhaetian Alps, set between Italy and Switzerland.

Having its valley positioned on the northern slope of the Alps, crossed by the Spöl stream, tributary of the Inn, it belongs to the Danube basin and not the Padan basin. The high peaks that are like a crown atop of the valley, defend the town from humidity and it is for this reason that Livigno boasts a chilly climate, but one that is dry in all seasons of the year.

It is rather pleasant to discover the long row of houses, once all in wood, lined up along the thalweg for about 12 kilometres, and then take a break in one of the numerous and welcoming restaurants to taste traditional dishes and listen in on the local dialect.

In the past, Livigno’s peripheral position actually drove it into long months of isolation during winter, but it has also enjoyed customs benefits since Napoleonic times and this has led to a surprising tourism development. Today it is one of the few “duty-free” areas in Europe; a true capital of holidays and shopping.

In both summer and winter, many tourists choose Livigno for enjoying moments of relaxation and fun. Nonetheless, the construction of new hotels and modern infrastructure has not created an obstacle for the care and respect of the traditions and its splendid Alpine environment.

The winter season starts in November and goes until May. Its ski lifts and slopes are world class. During summer, it becomes a destination for walking or mountain bike excursions, tranquil walks amongst the greenery, suitable for all the family, and for sporting events and fun.