Bormio

Bormio is a renowned resort in the Valtellina situated at 1,225 metres altitude within the Stelvio National Park. The city’s strategic location has made it an important trading hub over the years, granting it considerable autonomy and prosperity – a legacy still evident in its charming historic centre today.

Since the last century, thanks to improved infrastructure and the exploitation of thermal springs, Bormio has become a premier tourist destination. The name Bormio most likely derives from the Gallic term “bormo”, meaning “hot spring”, as the city is rich in thermal waters that were already appreciated in the time of Roman writer Pliny the Elder.

Today Bormio attracts visitors from across northern Italy not only as a renowned ski destination but also for its excellent thermal centres. During winter, the Bormio Ski resort captivates skiing, snowboarding and cross-country skiing enthusiasts, whilst the city’s ice palace is famous for short track racing. During the summer season, meanwhile, Bormio and the Stelvio National Park are the ideal destination for those who love outdoor activities surrounded by nature.

Where to ski in Bormio

Bormio is the perfect destination for a weekend break or a week’s winter holiday. It attracts not only winter sports enthusiasts but also those seeking relaxation. Bormio offers approximately 50 km of slopes ranging from 1,225 metres up to 3,012 metres altitude where Cima Bianca is located. The resort features 15 modern ski lifts and 18 slopes of varying difficulty spread across 1,800 metres of vertical descent, making it one of Lombardy’s most extensive ski areas.

Among the most renowned slopes here is the Stelvio run, which is part of the Alpine Skiing World Cup downhill circuit, and the Bormio 2000 and 3000 slopes with their breathtaking descents. There are also blue runs for less experienced skiers and ski schools for beginners. Snowboarders can enjoy the snow park, while families with children have access to a family park. There’s also a training area right in Bormio village, near the rental centre and the Bormio Ski School.

The area is also equipped with several mountain huts and alpine chalets, ideal not only for those wanting to relax after a good day’s skiing but also for enjoying spectacular views and sampling local cuisine. Bormio is also home to the Braulio Ice Palace, dedicated to short track, figure skating and ice hockey. Right next to this facility is also the curling stadium.

Ski passes for Bormio

The Bormio Ski resort offers various types of ski passes including daily, multi-day, afternoon passes and seasonal subscriptions. Every skier can purchase a pass suited to their needs. The Bormio resort ski pass allows you to ski across three different ski areas totalling 110 km of slopes. Included in this pass are: Bormio (15 lifts and 50 km of slopes), Santa Caterina Valfurva (9 lifts and 35 km of slopes) and Cima Piazzi-San Colombano (12 lifts and 25 km of slopes). The three areas are connected by free ski bus lines for pass holders. Ski passes can be purchased at the ticket offices on site, online, or you can top up your pass on the official website. Bormio also offers various promotions and discounts particularly for university students and families.

What to do in summer in Bormio

Bormio is truly a versatile destination to visit in any season, and the high standard of services and facilities makes it a popular choice for families with children. While winter sees Bormio thronging with ski enthusiasts, the summer months offer a range of activities to enjoy in close contact with nature.

Many come here to escape the sweltering heat of the cities and enjoy the cool mountain climate. Trekking and walking enthusiasts can organise hikes such as those leading to the pretty little lakes, the Lakes of Profa or Cima Bianca. Mountain biking, freeride and downhill fans can try the Bormio Bike Park located on Monte Vallecetta. At altitude, there are numerous other trails that combine the stunning Valtellina views with the thrill of descent.

Things to do in Bormio

Bormio is also a town full of great charm and elegance. The historic centre houses medieval buildings alongside those from the 14th-16th centuries. The city’s emblem is certainly the Kuerc, once the seat of public assemblies and the administration of justice. Located in Piazza Cavour, the heart of the town, the walls of the Kuerc were where decrees and sentences were posted. In front of this palazzo stands the Collegiate Church of Saints Gervasius and Protasius, a religious building that has been reconstructed several times. Its current appearance dates from the 17th-century reconstruction. Inside, the church houses important works by local artists and numerous polychrome wooden statues.

Thermal centres

The city of Bormio is also famous for its thermal waters, appreciated since ancient Roman times. Bormio’s first thermal establishment dates back to 1920, from which point the city has presented itself as a destination combining relaxation with wellness and sport. There are currently three thermal establishments in the city: Terme di Bormio, Bagni Nuovi and Bagni Vecchi. All of these offer experiences in waters flowing from springs over 2,000 years old.

The Terme di Bormio are also family-friendly, featuring children’s pools, swimming lessons and many activities for the young. Bagni Nuovi and Bagni Vecchi, meanwhile, are two facilities located within four-star hotels offering thermal treatments and wellness experiences in complete relaxation.

Where to stay in Bormio

Bormio is not a large city, yet it offers a wide choice of accommodation to suit your type of stay. Winter sports enthusiasts may prefer to stay closer to the ski lifts for easy access to the slopes, while those preferring to remain in town can choose centrally located accommodation with all comforts.

It’s worth noting that given the wide range of activities on offer and the high standard of services, particularly in winter, Bormio is a highly sought-after destination and accommodation prices are generally high. The advice is to book well in advance to find offers that suit you!

Recommended hotels in Bormio

How to reach Bormio

The easiest way to reach Bormio is certainly by car. Those coming from Milan, Como or Lecco should take the SS36 of Lake Como and Spluga first, then the Stelvio/SS38 state road. Those travelling from Bergamo should take the SS42 and cross the Aprica Pass.

Bormio does not have a railway station, with the nearest one being Tirano, which can be reached from Milan Central Station in approximately two and a half hours. Tirano is about 37 km from Bormio with bus connections leading to the town centre.

Bormio Weather