Discover Italy’s Hidden Gems: The Majestic Italian Alps and Their Enchanting Villages

When most people think of Italy, they think of the gondolas of Venice, the stately monuments of Rome, and the gorgeous beaches of the Amalfi Coast. The Italian Alps are some of the most majestic mountains in all of Europe, but because Italy is such a cultural mecca, they often get overlooked. The Italian Alps are home to pristine mountain lakes, quaint towns that look as though they should be inhabited by elves and gnomes, and breathtaking vistas that every nature lover should strive to see in their lifetime.

If you’re looking to visit a quaint alpine village that looks as though it should be occupied solely by whimsical creatures straight out of a fairytale, consider visiting Monte Lussari. Monte Lussari—which is located in the comune of Tarvisio—is situated near the borders of Austria and Slovenia, so multiple cultures influence this lovely snow-capped town. The diversity of the art and architecture of the Sanctuary of the Madonna of Lussari church is a monument to Monte Lussari’s dedication to the peaceful coexistence of three distinctive cultures. Visitors can book a room at one of Monte Lussari’s rifugios—which is a hotel that is located on a mountaintop—for an unforgettable alpine experience that includes breathtaking views, a cozy, thick blanket, and an in-house restaurant that serves sumptuous Italian food and wine and piping hot espresso. The best way to reach Monte Lussari is via an alpine gondola from the nearby comune of Camporosso.

Monte Lussari, Italy
Photo by depositphotos.com

Italy is known for its stunning beaches and lakes, but few spots are quite as magnificent as Lago Blu. As the name implies, Lago Blu is a brilliant shade of blue due to the mineral content of the water. Lago Blu famously serves as a natural mirror to the Matterhorn—which is known in Italy as Mount Cervino. Lago Blu is a little too chilly for swimming unless a polar plunge is your cup of tea, but you can always explore the lake’s blue waters via kayak. There are plenty of hiking paths that offer panoramic views of the brilliant blue lake. During the warmer months, Lago Blu is one of the finest picnic spots in all of Europe. Local lore states that a series of submerged twisted tree branches are actually the home of an inhospitable shepherdess whose house was swallowed up by Lago Blu after she refused to offer a wandering…