Italy appears to be a country of infinite surprises. Everywhere buildings sprout here and there, views, glimpses capable of leaving us pleasantly struck. And this is what could happen to you during a trip to upper Lombardy. A tour to discover the suggestive views of Valtellina.
Tirano and surroundings
We place our starting point in Tirano, a town where you can breathe that sense of peace typical of the mountains. The numerous hotels, shops and the presence of the railway make it a comfortable place. Located on the edge of the Italian territory, it is an optimal stop to cross the border. In fact, the famous Bernina red train. In a couple of hours you will be in Switzerland, in the splendid setting of Saint Moritz. A journey marked by the rhythm of landscapes, ready to follow each other. Are the views of the Valtellina. Dominated by the green of the valleys in spring and by the white glow of snow in winter. Unusual buildings appear here and there along the route. Many of these are simple railway stations that retain a style so delightful that it seems unreal. Perfectly embedded in the natural landscape that hosts them, they appear as if they have stood still in time. As if they were drawn by a child's hand.
But let's go on. From Tirano, in just under an hour, it can be reached Bormio. Location best known for his thermal baths. Here you can enjoy a perfect mix of relaxation and heavenly views. The charm of the peaks before your eyes as you let yourself be bask in the warm waters of the pools. And yes, you got it right! The views surrounding the facility completed the therapeutic effect right of the thermal baths.
The Sondrio you don't expect
Let's move to another Valtellinese town for a quick stop in Sondrio. We walk with a high gaze through the streets of the city. And yes, because sometimes in the frenzy of walking, often with our heads down, we don't get important ideas. Those that would allow us to get to know a place better. From the classic signs that indicate the presence of a historical asset, to ancient inscriptions at the top of the walls. And it is thanks to these indications that you will be able to enter precious corners. Example is the via Scarpatetti which runs through the entire historic center. An ideal place to get an idea of the peasant life of the past. The district is in fact characterized by the typical rural architecture often hidden inside courtyards. Court houses that rise in vertical structures made of exposed stone and numerous wooden galleries. It almost seems like you have to climb to get access to it.
But the best views of Valtellina can be found at the Castello del Grumello. We then resume our journey and reach the fortress so well placed as to be almost invisible. Located in a strategic position on a hill, locally called "lump" from which the fortress takes its name. It is a very dated structure, in fact it dates back to 1200. It consists of two portions, one probably for residential use, the other used for defensive purposes. The peculiarity is undoubtedly given by its location. From the top of the hill you will have the feeling of dominating the entire landscape. You will see panoramas on which the rows of gods run vineyards. And again terracing with dry stone walls to create a soft cascading effect. Finally, in the distance, the road with its cars and its people. Intertwined lives, destinies, appointments under the grandeur of the hill. That nature which, from its elevated position, seems to silently control everything.
