Spring brings with it the desire for adventure and discovery, and Piani di Bobbio is the perfect destination for spending time outdoors. Bobbio’s ski slopes are the ideal place to escape the urban crowds. Here, the fresh mountain air and the simplicity of the place invigorates your every cell.
Surrounded by the mountain ridges of Lombardy, I discovered this place where time seems to move at its own pace.
Discovering the slopes of Piani di Bobbio
Piani di Bobbio, located between 1660 and 2000 metres above sea level, in the heart of Valsassina, in the municipality of Barzio, is one of the most famous ski destinations in Lombardy. But even in summer, it has its own charm with a variety of activities, from trekking and mountain biking, suitable for both adrenaline-seeking adventurers and families eager to relax in the bosom of nature.
How to get to Piani di Bobbio?
Access to Piani di Bobbio is easy, being just an hour’s drive from Milan, making it perfect for a day trip.
By car
If you choose to travel by car, as we did, Piani di Bobbio is accessible by several routes, depending on your starting point. The most common point of reference is the town of Lecco, from where you can follow the signs to Valsassina. From there, the road to Barzio, where the cable car takes you directly to the resort, is well signposted. Parking is available at the base of the cable car.
By bus
There are bus services offering direct transport to Barzio or resorts close to Piani di Bobbio, especially in the winter season when demand is higher. These services may vary depending on the season, so it is advisable to check timetables and availability on the websites of local transport companies or on the official Piani di Bobbio resort website.
By train
For those who prefer the train, the nearest train station is in Lecco. From Lecco, you can take a bus or taxi to Barzio. Although this mode of travel may be slower compared to driving, the scenery you’ll see along the way is worth the effort.
Cable car to Bobbio slopes
The cable car from Barzio takes about 10 minutes to the Bobbio slopes and costs 13,00 euro for adults return, 10,00 euro for children and 5,00 euro for toddlers up to 5 years old.
The cable car ticket can be purchased directly on the spot or you can buy it online on the official website, saving you time and going directly to the turnstiles to climb to the top!
Other useful tips
Before planning your trip, I always recommend checking the operation of the cable car. HERE you will always find all the updated information.
Check the weather and road conditions before setting off, especially in the winter season. If you plan to spend more time on the slopes, consider buying a cable car ticket online to avoid queues. On weekends and holidays, the resort can get very busy, so try to arrive early to enjoy a full day on the slopes.
How to get to Piani di Bobbio on foot?
The Bobbio slopes can also be reached on foot with a route that starts from the cable car and takes at least two and a half hours to reach the Piani di Bobbio.
The route is easy, proceeding through the forest until you reach a final stretch of unpaved road. You will meet the frescoed chapel dedicated to the fallen of Barzio and then again the Penne Nere Bivouac at 1,416 metres altitude, made by the Alpine Group. Although this trek does not present great technical difficulties, be prepared to face a positive level difference of almost a thousand meters! Good training is therefore indispensable.
Bobbio’s trails are a strategic starting point for many easy hikes and treks to higher altitudes.
Trekking Trails and Activities
Piani di Bobbio awaits you with trekking routes for all levels of fitness, from gentle trails ideal for family walks to more demanding routes for those looking for a challenge. In addition to trekking, the area offers excellent conditions for mountain biking and offers unique landscapes, unspoilt nature and grazing animals: you’ll actually meet many cows, horses and donkeys.
Where to eat on the slopes of Piani di Bobbio
For those wondering where to have a meal at Piani di Bobbio, Rifugio Lecco is the answer.
Here, cuisine is not only an art form but also an expression of mountain hospitality. From polenta squares to al dente pasta with a rustic tomato sauce, every bite was a culinary journey into the heart of Lombardy.
In the mountain refuge Rifugio Lecco, we had the pleasure to taste the traditional local menu, with tasty dishes, where every ingredient seems to have been carefully chosen to satisfy your senses.
Lecco hut, Piani di Bobbio
It’s the perfect place to enjoy a warm meal in an authentic mountain setting. The Lecco Refuge has a large indoor dining room with seating for 80 and a large outdoor terrace with panoramic views of the valley. If you decide to stay overnight, the Lecco Refuge has about 20 sleeping places.
Other places to dine once on the Bobbio slopes
- La Tana del Bianconiglio: Known for its great pizza and traditional dishes, La Tana del Bianconiglio is a great option for those who want to enjoy a welcoming atmosphere and tasty food after a day on the slopes.
- Bar Ristorante Pian delle Betulle: Situated high up in the mountains, this restaurant offers a spectacular view of the valley. The menu includes a varied selection of dishes, from antipasti to delicious desserts, all prepared with local ingredients.
- Rifugio Nicola: If you’re looking for an authentic culinary experience, Rifugio Nicola is the place to be. Here you can enjoy mountain specialities such as polenta taragna in a warm, rustic setting.
- Il Caminetto: For those who want to experience Italian cuisine in a more elegant setting, Il Caminetto offers a fine dining experience with an impressive selection of wines and dishes made from the finest quality ingredients.
Whatever your choice, Piani di Bobbio has culinary options for all tastes, whether you prefer a quick and tasty meal or a more sophisticated dining experience. It’s always a good idea to check opening hours and make a reservation in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure you find free seats at lunchtime.
My day began with an early morning walk on the winding paths, where each step brought me closer to heaven. I admired views where the mountains meet the sky in an eternal dance.
By sharing this experience with you, dear readers, I hope to have instilled some of the magic of the place and awakened your desire to explore Piani di Bobbio. Whether you are looking for peace and quiet or adventure, this corner of heaven will not disappoint.
