Ein Chalet in Livigno, Trepalle

Livigno has had an interesting history, which is a testament both to its remoteness and to the resilience and determination of its people.

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Geographically Livigno is on the roof of Europe, the river SpěŹ which is a source of the River Danube, rises in the valley, whilst the other great river of Europe, the Rhine, rises at the other end of the Engadine valley nearby in Switzerland.

Until the 1960's Livigno was practically cut off for the winter months, and its altitude and short summer made it difficult to grow crops. For generations Livigno was subservient to Bormio, but the effort made by the people of Livigno in developing a truly international reputation as an ecological tourism destination has paid off, and now the population of Livigno exceeds that of Bormio.

Livigno's remoteness and its geography meant that the people were able to secure tax privileges since the middle ages and it retains duty-free status today.

The closest airport is 200km away making Livigno one of the most remote places in Europe, but its remoteness is a very great part of its charm and the exceptional friendliness of the people.

Have a really great stay in Trepalle.

We have been in Livigno for over 30 years, and things indeed have changed, there is a lot more traffic in the town centre, though large areas have been pedestrianised. There has been a building boom, but the architecture is sympathetic and many older buildings have been beautifully preserved. The way of life has changed much less in Trepalle and as only 500 people live in the parish, it has a very special atmosphere.

Children:
Livigno is really a safe and fun place for kids, lots of activities, kindergartens and ski schools available from age 3. Spending time in Livigno with a young family is a truly fantastic experience.

Shopping
There are over 200 duty free shops in Livigno, all the designer brands are represented at genuine duty free prices. In Trepalle there is a full range of duty free and food shopping, but there is not a pharmacy.

Eating and drinking

There are several traditional restaurants in Trepalle including the writer's favourite 'La Pernice' where a hot stone fondue is available for a ridiculous price. In Livigno there is a wide selection of restaurants from basic to gourmet.

Livigno attractions
Skiing: There are 110km of prepared runs, and Trepalle lift (4-man chair) provides quick and easy access to the Mottolino ski area. For Carosello, a bus is available from the bottom of Teola lift every 20mins to Carosello. The writer has found that the ski & bus option is quicker than driving there.

Mountain biking, Walking, Horse riding: Available summer and winter.

Fishing, Bormio: The 'white mountain' offers the largest vertical descent of any ski resort in Europe and the white mountain challenge is held in January each year.

Geological Museum: Interesting and unique, this museum at Bormio is well worth a visit.

Engadine Valley: Small medieval villages perched impossibly on mountainsides, more Swiss than toblerone. Another great day out.

Have a really great stay in Trepalle.