Spending time in Livigno means reconnecting with nature: the surrounding Rhaetian Alps are home to lush nature - with larch, pine and fir forests, but also large green meadows, numerous types of native plants and flowers, and relaxing streams of pure water - and to various animal species. In fact, the Livigno area is part of the Stelvio National Park, one of the oldest natural parks in Italy, which has always been a habitat for mountain flora and fauna
The combination of these two elements makes Little Tibet the ideal setting where all animal lovers can spend bucolic outdoor experiences in the name of animal love.
During trekking excursions along the 1,500 km of trails that wind along both sides of the valley, it is possible to observe some wild mountain animals from afar, including roe deer, red deer, chamois and ibex, as well as numerous bird species - such as the eagle and the bearded vulture, two icons of the Stelvio National Park - and marmots, easily recognisable thanks to their whistle that echoes in the air.
Some of these paths lead to the malghe - of which there are three in the Livigno area, Malga Federia, Alpe Mine and Malga Alpe Vago -, where you can come into direct contact with the barn animals, discover how milk is processed and then the dairy products, and then enjoy the genuine local products over a rich meal of traditional dishes.
Walking on Livigno's slopes, one can also come across grazing cows, one of the stable animals that are the protagonists of Livigno life and, in particular, of the Alpenfest, a two-day festival dedicated to farmers and the ancient rite of Alpine transhumance: on this occasion, the cattle come down from the mountain pasture accompanied by farmers and reach the village, where they will spend the winter months after the summer in the mountain pastures.
Every year, this typical custom is transformed into an occasion to celebrate the origins of the area and the importance of farm work and animals with various engaging activities. This year's event is scheduled for Saturday 21 September in Livigno and Sunday 22 September in Trepalle. The programme for both days includes an exciting parade of farmers dressed in traditional costumes and barn animals adorned with wreaths of flowers, followed by the tasting of recipes from the book ‘Leina da Saor’ created by the chefs of the Livigno Chefs and Pastry Chefs Association. The days will continue with performances by local groups, representations of ancient crafts and ballroom dancing, while the evening of Saturday 21 September will end with a music live show featuring the energy of Simon & Mac's accordion and electric drums and the performance of Rednex, the Swedish Eurodance music group that became famous in the 1990s with their single ‘Cotton Eye Joe’.
Even in the village, there is no shortage of opportunities to come into contact with the animal world.
The La Tresenda farmhouse offers two activities that combine contact with nature and love for animals: the first is horse riding, and the farmhouse organises horseback excursions - group or individual, always accompanied by professional instructors and therefore suitable for both experts and those riding a horse for the first time- in the woods and along scenic routes; for those who prefer an unusual and fun experience, the ideal is a walk with llamas and alpacas, friendly and sociable animals to get to know and stroke during the 30-minute hike in which to observe the beauty of mountain paths in summer.