Hiking, skiing, and alpine adventure in Bergamo
Just a short drive from the city of Bergamo, the Orobie Alps offer an entirely different world—rugged, green, and filled with wild beauty. This mountain range, part of the southernmost section of the Italian Alps, forms a spectacular natural barrier between the Po Valley and the Valtellina. With their dramatic peaks, lush valleys, alpine lakes, and network of well-marked trails, the Orobie are a dream destination for hikers, mountain bikers, climbers, skiers and nature lovers.
Where Are the Orobie Alps?
The Orobie stretch across the northern edge of the Province of Bergamo and beyond into neighboring Lecco and Sondrio. They are part of the larger Bergamasque Alps and include some of Lombardy’s most scenic and lesser-known natural treasures.
The area is protected by the Parco delle Orobie Bergamasche, one of Italy’s largest regional parks, covering over 60,000 hectares of forests, waterfalls, valleys, and wildlife.
Best Places to Explore in the Orobie Alps
Here are some of the most iconic and accessible places for visitors:
- Val Brembana – Famous for San Pellegrino Terme and its Belle Époque architecture, this valley offers hiking routes, refuges, and the stunning Laghi Gemelli (Twin Lakes).
- Val Seriana – Home to picturesque towns like Clusone and Gromo, as well as access points for Monte Pora, Pizzo Redorta, and the famous Rifugio Curò overlooking Lago del Barbellino.
- Val di Scalve – A quiet valley on the eastern edge of the Orobie, known for its dramatic rock formations and alpine flora.
- Valbondione – A small hidden gem near Gromo, gateway to the wild Lago di Coca, one of the highest alpine lakes in the area.
- Monte Resegone & Pizzo Tre Signori – On the western edge, near Lecco and Valtorta, these peaks are favorites for experienced hikers and climbers.
Skiing, Hiking and Mountain Trails
The Orobie offer hundreds of kilometers of ski slopes and marked trails for all levels—from gentle family walks through alpine pastures to multi-day hikes across high ridges. Notable routes include:
- Sentiero delle Orobie – A legendary long-distance hiking trail split into eastern and western sections, connecting multiple mountain huts (rifugi) and high-altitude viewpoints.
- Laghi Trail – A series of paths connecting glacial and alpine lakes, perfect for warm summer hikes and landscape photography.
Many trails lead to mountain huts (rifugi), where hikers can enjoy a warm meal, rest, or even sleep overnight. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in high season.
Check out the best ski resorts here.
Wildlife and Nature
The Orobie Alps are home to an incredible diversity of wildlife. With some luck (and silence), visitors may spot:
- Alpine ibexes and chamois
- Golden eagles and hawks
- Marmots, foxes, and deer
- Rare alpine flowers and medicinal herbs
Thanks to the area’s protected status, the environment remains largely unspoiled, offering a rare glimpse of authentic Alpine ecosystems just an hour from the city.
The Orobie Alps are one of Lombardy’s best-kept secrets: a vast and vibrant playground for outdoor adventure, ecological discovery, and slow tourism. Whether you’re climbing to a peak, hiking to a refuge, or simply breathing in the crisp mountain air, this alpine corner of Bergamo rewards anyone who seeks it out.
