Alta Valsesia is a beautiful piece of the Italian high country tucked away in the stunning Val Sesia Valley. This picturesque valley is nestled in the Piedmont region of Northern Italy and has been a popular destination for centuries. The natural beauty here is what draws people from far and wide – snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear rivers, lush forests, and stunning views of valleys and plains. One of the best ways to visit Alta Valsesia is with Karibu Adventures, an ethically-minded tour operator which hosts guests in a mountain lodge at the foot of Monta Rosa, Italy’s second-highest peak. Check out this footage from the cabin.
Photo: orsola iacono/Shutterstock
Alta Valsesia Offers Italy's Most Picturesque Hiking and Views
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What to do and where to eat in Alta Valsesia
Alta Valsesia is an amazing place to explore. There are plenty of opportunities for skiing in the winter months, hiking during spring and summer, and exploring the beautiful lakeside towns in autumn. The region is also home to a range of activities, such as horseback riding and paragliding.
When it comes to food, Alta Valsesia won’t disappoint. The local cuisine has been influenced by the surrounding countries of France, Switzerland, and Austria – so you’re sure to find some delicious dishes! Local favorites include truffle risotto, veal cutlets with mushrooms, and various types of polenta.
- Ristorante Cà Nosta is a family-run restaurant serving traditional Italian cuisine. They have a wide variety of dishes to choose from, including pasta, risotto, pizza, and meat dishes. The restaurant is located in the town center, and it has a lovely outdoor seating area.
- Zam Tachji is a mountain restaurant with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. They serve hearty dishes made with local ingredients, such as polenta, pasta, and grilled meats. The restaurant is located in the hamlet of Alpe Fum Bitz, and it’s a great place to stop for lunch or dinner after a day of hiking or skiing.
- Trattoria Fum Diss is a traditional trattoria serving home-cooked Italian cuisine. The menu features dishes such as pasta, risotto, and meat dishes. The restaurant is located in the town center, and it’s a great place to go for a casual meal.
- Rifugio Pastore is a mountain hut located at an altitude of 2,000 meters. They serve simple but hearty dishes made with local ingredients, such as pasta, polenta, and grilled meats. The hut is a great place to stop for lunch or dinner after a day of hiking or skiing.
Where to hike in Alta Valsesia
Alta Valsesia is a beautiful region in the Italian Alps, and there are many great hikes to choose from. Here are a few of the best:
- Monte Rosa Tour, Segment 5: Alagna, Pastore Refuge – Macugnaga | Staffa. This is a challenging hike, but it offers stunning views of Monte Rosa. The trail passes through alpine meadows and forests, and it culminates at the Pastore Refuge, which has a panoramic terrace with views of the surrounding peaks.
- Frazioni di Alagna Valsesia. This is a moderate hike that takes you through the charming villages of Alagna Valsesia. The trail passes through farmland, forests, and along the Sesia River. There are several waterfalls along the way, and the views of the Monte Rosa massif are stunning.
- Alpe Safeiaz – Rifugio Ferrero – Alpe Fonflua – Alpe Brunne. This is a challenging hike that takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Alta Valsesia. The trail passes through alpine meadows, forests, and past several lakes. There are also some great viewpoints along the way, including one at Rifugio Ferrero, which has panoramic views of Monte Rosa.
- Cascata Acqua Bianca – Cascata Sesia – Alpe Bors. This is a moderate hike that takes you to two of the most beautiful waterfalls in Alta Valsesia. The trail passes through forests and along the Sesia River. The waterfalls are stunning, and the views of the surrounding mountains are also great.
- Via Alpina Blue Trail, Segment 15: Rifugio Ferioli – S. Antonio di Valvogna. This is a moderate hike that takes you through the heart of the Valsesia Natural Park. The trail passes through forests, meadows, and along the Sesia River. There are also some great viewpoints along the way, including one at Rifugio Ferioli, which has panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
