Summer holidays in the Italian mountains have never been more popular. Amanda Statham discovers that the stunning regions of Trentino and Lombardy are well worth exploring with your family
More and more families are falling in love with the Italian peaks
Thought the Alps were just for winter? Think again, because summer holidays in the Italian peaks have experienced a huge surge in popularity thanks to resorts – keen to fill vacant beds outside of the ski season – offering an enticing range of activities. From e-biking and caving to adventure parks and pony-trekking, several of the northern regions offer unique family- friendly adventures centred around mesmerising mountains, which are spectacular when snow-capped peaks contrast with lush green valleys below. Who needs the beach?
A picture-perfect spot for a rest in Lake Garda
Trentino
Stretching from Lake Garda to the Dolomites, Trentino lies in the heart of the Alpine region and makes a magical choice for an outdoors family getaway, with a wealth of lakes, cities, castles and mountains to explore.
Hiking and biking
Get the family out in the fresh air on a hike through some of Europe’s most spectacular scenery. Kids will enjoy the cable car ride to the top of Mount Mezzocorona, where there are panoramic views of the Rotaliana plains to enjoy. Then take a gentle walk through forest to the Malga Kraun, a mountain hut where you can taste typical Trentino cuisine (think local cheese and cured meats) and wander through an enchanting open-air gallery of wood sculptures to an enormous silver fir known as the Candelabra. Want to swap feet for wheels? Head to Passo Tonale, which has a family bike park with various routes to suit every type of cyclists.