The Valtellina region, in northern Lombardy, was recognized as the best wine and gastronomy route in Italy in 2025. The award was presented during the TTG Travel Experience fair, held in October in Rimini.
The award, called Travel Food Award, is organized by GIST (Italian Tourist Press Group) and celebrates destinations that combine tourism and gastronomy in a sustainable and high-quality way. This year, the highlight was the typical products of Valtellina, with an emphasis on the traditional bresaola, cured beef sausage.
The recognition was received by Paola Dolzanelli, coordinator of the Bresaola da Valtellina Protection Consortium and creator of the project Valtellina Nascosta, an application that promotes sustainable tourism in the region by presenting 18 little-explored destinations.
Sustainable tourism and gastronomy with identity
The award considered criteria such as sustainability, ethical food production, and the cultural value of food as a bridge between different cultures. "The flavor of polenta taragna, the aroma of bresaola, and the handmade pizzoccheri reflect the soul of Valtellina," said Barbara Mazzali, Lombardy's tourism advisor, during the ceremony.
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The region also stands out for the production of wines such as Sforzato and Valtellina Superiore, grown on rocky slopes and recognized for their quality and uniqueness.
Valtellina Nacosta: the secret side of the Alps
The "Valtellina Nascosta" app features itineraries recommended by locals, far from mass tourism. Recommended spots include:
- The 2.886-step staircase of Savogno, near the Swiss border;
- The “Crotti” of Valchiavenna, naturally ventilated caves used to preserve food;
- The historic city of Tirano and the ancient smuggling routes;
- The Castello di Mancapane, hidden among the woods of Montagna in Valtellina.
The digital platform offers not only tourist routes, but also suggestions on where to try the best versions of bresaola, a symbol of the region.
Towards the 2026 Winter Olympics
Beyond gastronomy, Valtellina is also preparing to host events for the 2026 Winter Olympics in the cities of Bormio and Livigno. The competitions will include men's alpine skiing and, for the first time, ski mountaineering.
The combination of culinary tradition, alpine landscapes and winter sports strengthens Valtellina's role as a complete and authentic destination in the Italian landscape.
