Autumn is a magical season, and in the Italian mountains it takes on a very particular charm. The woods are tinged with warm and bright shades, going from summer green to red, yellow and orange which are a prelude to winter. The phenomenon of foliage, a term of Anglo-Saxon derivation which has now entered common language, is the material representation of this natural metamorphosis, where the leaves that change color before falling to the ground create scenarios of extraordinary beauty. In many parts of the world, such as Canada or Japan, the foliage is a real tourist attraction, but even in Italy there are enchanting corners where you can witness such a spectacle, all completely immersed in nature. Between the Alps and the Apennines, our country offers a series of perfect destinations for those who want to enjoy the autumn colours, trekking or simply walking in the woods.
Let’s see five of the best destinations to admire the foliage in the Italian mountains.
Lombardy: in the woods of Valtellina
Valtellina, in the heart of Lombardy, is a place where natural beauty explodes in autumn. The surrounding valleys and mountains are tinged with warm colors, and the result is certainly impactful. An excellent destination for families is Val Viola, starting from Arnoga, a very valid itinerary even for those with small children, since the first stretch of the route is asphalted and suitable for strollers. Walking along the valley, you find yourself surrounded by imposing mountains, such as Cima Piazzi and Corno Dosdè, which exceed 3000 metres. The autumn panorama is truly spectacular, with the colors reflected on the lakes and paths.
Not far from here, another interesting itinerary leads to the Cancano Lakes, two artificial basins that can be reached via the road to the Torri di Fraele or by following the Decauville path. The route is suitable for everyone and offers glimpses of rare beauty, with the surrounding woods lit up with autumn colours. Valchiavenna also offers an unmissable natural spectacle, especially in Piuro, famous for the Acquafraggia waterfalls, a splendid place throughout the year and which becomes even more magical in autumn. The walk to Savogno, along a path of 2886 steps, leads to an ancient village where time seems to have stopped.
Valmalenco is another area of Valtellina that offers enchanting landscapes in autumn. The walk from San Giuseppe to Lake Lagazzuolo, although short, is challenging due to the 600 meter difference in altitude, but the view is absolutely rewarding. The waters of the lake reflect the colors of the leaves that surround it, for a show worth enjoying.
South Tyrol: in the kingdom of King Laurin (Val d’Ega)
Moving to the Dolomites, one of the most fascinating places to admire the foliage, but also the natural phenomenon of enrosadira is the King Laurin Tour, located between the Catinaccio and the Latemar in Val d’Ega. The route begins in Nova Levante and develops along paths that lead to Lake Carezza and the Radura di Mezzo. Here, the imposing mountains form the backdrop to an extraordinary landscape, made even more evocative by the autumn colours. The route, which crosses the Latemar forest, will be particularly appreciated by those who love mountain biking or e-bikes, with challenging climbs that offer spectacular views of the valley.
The combination of the paths immersed in the woods and the majesty of the Dolomites makes this area one of the favorite destinations for those who want to fully enjoy autumn in the mountains. The colors of the leaves, which vary from bright red to golden yellow, create a magnificent contrast with the Dolomite rocks, transforming every corner into a postcard.
Piedmont: the Biella area and the Burcina Park
In the heart of Piedmont, a less well-known but equally fascinating destination is the Biella area, and in particular the Burcina Park, a historic garden founded in the 19th century by the Piacenza family. Here, the variety of botanical species, both native and exotic, offers a unique spectacle during autumn, with rhododendrons painting the valley in bright colours. The park, located in Pollone, is a perfect place for those who love nature and want to walk immersed in a fairytale landscape.
Not far from here, the medieval village of Candelo is another unmissable stop. The Ricetto di Candelo, included among the most beautiful villages in Italy, retains an ancient charm, with walls and towers that contrast with the autumn colors of the surrounding countryside. From here, you can continue towards the Baragge Nature Reserve, a protected area that offers exceptional scenery of the moorland woods.
Trentino: the Paganella plateau
Trentino is a region that offers countless opportunities to admire foliage, and the Paganella plateau is one of the most fascinating destinations. Here, the Brenta Dolomites are tinged with warm shades that contrast with the intense blue of Lake Molveno, where they offer us an astonishing panorama. The route that starts from Andalo and arrives at Pradel is easy to follow and offers magnificent views of the lake and the surrounding woods.
For those looking for a quieter experience, the circular route between Cavedago and Andalo is perfect. Just two kilometers long, this path allows you to explore the most secret places of the plateau, where you will pass through farms, woods and vegetable gardens typical of the area. The foliage here is particularly intense, with the colors of the leaves mixing with autumnal scents.
Another highly recommended excursion is the one that connects San Lorenzo in Banale to Molveno, passing through the hamlets of Moline and Deggia. In this area, the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Caravaggio and the houses covered with vines create an atmosphere of times gone by, made even more fascinating by the autumn colours.
Aosta Valley: the landscapes of Mont Blanc
We end our journey in the Aosta Valley, at the foot of Mont Blanc, where the autumn views are just as spectacular as the winter ones. Val Ferret, one of the two side valleys of Courmayeur, is an unmissable place for those who love walking in nature. The new path that connects La Palud to Lavachey crosses woods and meadows which light up with extraordinary colors in autumn.
For those who prefer to enjoy the view without trekking, the Skyway Monte Bianco cable car ensures a unique experience. Climbing up to 3466 meters high, you can admire the colors of autumn that blend with the snow-capped peaks of the Alps. Furthermore, the Valdigne market, which is held in Courmayeur on 30 October, guarantees the opportunity to discover the products local products, such as cheeses and wines, in an autumnal context of rare beauty.
The Italian mountains offer endless opportunities to admire autumn foliage, and the five destinations proposed represent just a small taste of what our country has to offer. From the Dolomites to the Lombard Alps, each place has its own unique charm, made up of colours, scents and sensations that only autumn can offer, a season that invites us to rediscover nature, to slow down and be enchanted by the beauty of the world around us .
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