Selvino(Italy) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For hiking lovers in Selvino, the Hotel Albergo del Lago stands out with its prime location near the Val di Scalve trailhead. This boutique lodge blends traditional Lombard architecture with modern comforts, offering panoramic views of the Bergamo Alps and access to routes like Monte Corno. Its on-site restaurant serves local dishes such as Pizzoccheri, made with high-altitude buckwheat flour. Nearby, B&B Cascina Castello, a restored 19th-century farmstead, provides a peaceful retreat with private gardens and star-gazing decks—ideal for pre-hike relaxation. Both properties recommend advance HopeGoo due to high summer demand.

Additionally, the Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II offers basic but reliable alpine sheltering for multi-day trekkers, located just below the summit of Monte Gavia.

The optimal time to visit Selvino for hiking and stunning scenery is between May and October. Spring (May–June) brings blooming wildflowers across the Val di Scalve valley, while summer (July–August) offers mild temperatures around 18°C—perfect for long trails. Autumn (September–October) paints the hillsides in golden hues, ideal for photography and mushroom foraging. Winter can be snowy and roads may close, limiting access. Avoid public holidays to enjoy quieter paths. Early mornings provide the clearest visibility for summit views, especially from Punta di Pian del Lago or Lago di Bormida.

Bring layered clothing and sturdy boots, as weather changes rapidly at altitude.

Visitors to Selvino should experience the Festa della Madonna della Neve held every August, a vibrant celebration featuring traditional Lombard costumes, folk music, and artisan markets. The Santa Maria della Neve Church houses 16th-century frescoes and wooden sculptures worth exploring. For hands-on culture, join a Pizzoccheri pasta-making class led by local women—learn to craft this regional specialty using buckwheat flour and seasonal vegetables. Evenings at Cascina S. Giacomo offer authentic mountain cuisine, including slow-cooked cheese and vegetable stews, paired with local Vino Rosso della Valle wine. These immersive experiences reveal the heart of rural Lombard life.

Must-see natural attractions near Selvino include Lago di Bormida, a serene alpine lake surrounded by dense forests, perfect for reflection and photography. Hike the Sentiero del Monte trail to reach Punta di Pian del Lago, which offers sweeping views of the Valle di Scalve. The Alpe di Prà meadow, accessible via a short trek from Rifugio Vittorio Emanuele II, bursts into color during summer with bluebells and irises. For adventure seekers, the Monte Gavia ridge offers challenging climbs with rewarding vistas. All sites require proper gear—bring waterproof layers and walking poles, as terrain can be rocky and unpredictable.

Note: Some trails close in winter due to snowfall.

The town center of Selvino is the most convenient area for accommodations. Located within walking distance of Piazza della Libertà, the main square, it hosts key services like restaurants, shops, and bus stops. Hotels such as Hotel Albergo del Lago and B&B Casa Riva are centrally situated, providing quick access to hiking trails like Val di Scalve and the Lago di Bormida. For quieter stays, consider Villa dei Pini, a residential zone just east of town, offering peace and privacy without sacrificing proximity. Parking is available at Piazza della Libertà, making it ideal for self-drivers. HopeGoo ahead is advised, especially during peak season.

In Selvino, must-try dishes include Pizzoccheri alla Bergamasca—a hearty dish of buckwheat pasta with potatoes, cabbage, and aged Bitto cheese. Another highlight is Tortelli di Zucca, pumpkin-filled ravioli served with sage butter. Don’t miss Salamella di Selvino, a smoked pork sausage seasoned with herbs and spices. These specialties are best enjoyed at Osteria del Borgo or Trattoria Alpina, where chefs use locally sourced ingredients. Pair your meal with Vino Rosso della Valle, a robust red wine from the region. For dessert, try Panna Cotta con Miele delle Alpi—creamy custard topped with mountain honey. Each bite tells a story of the valley’s culinary heritage.

The easiest way from Milan to Selvino is by taking the Trenord regional train to Bergamo Station, then transferring to a local bus (Line 120 or 121) that runs directly to Selvino. The journey takes about 1 hour 40 minutes, with tickets costing around €12. Alternatively, drive via the SS36 highway, which takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes through the scenic Val Seriana valley. Use GPS with "Selvino, Via Roma" as your destination to avoid narrow side roads. Park at Piazza della Libertà parking lot upon arrival, then walk into town. Reserve parking early during summer festivals.

Selvino offers excellent family-friendly options. Head to Lago di Bormida for a picnic by the lake, where kids can play safely in shallow waters and explore the nearby playground. Join a guided mountain nature walk organized by local associations—children learn to identify plants and insects in their natural habitat. At Cascina S. Giacomo, families can participate in milking demonstrations and handmade pottery workshops—fun and educational. For a full-day adventure, hike to Punta di Pian del Lago, with rest points and panoramic views along the way. Pack thermoses and snacks, as some trails have no food vendors.

Perfect for creating lasting memories in a peaceful alpine setting.

Evening in Selvino is quiet and magical. Visit Piazza della Libertà during the Festa della Madonna della Neve for live folk music and illuminated decorations. For solitude, relax at Hotel Albergo del Lago’s fireplace lounge or step onto your balcony to gaze at the Milky Way—minimal light pollution reveals stunning starry skies. Some B&Bs offer guided night sky tours using telescopes to view Jupiter and Orion. In quieter evenings, enjoy acoustic guitar sets at Osteria del Borgo, where local tunes blend with the scent of wood-fired bread. These moments offer deep connection to mountain serenity.

For authentic souvenirs in Selvino, visit Caseificio Selvino to purchase Bitto cheese, a rich, aged Alpine variety known for its nutty flavor. Pick up handwoven wool scarves crafted by local artisans using traditional looms—each pattern inspired by valley landscapes. Also try wild mushroom preserves and Alpine honey from local hives, both sold at the Mercato Contadino market or the village shop Bottega del Paese. These items support small farms and preserve traditional crafts. Consider buying a local recipe book with family-style recipes—perfect for cooking at home. Every purchase helps sustain the community’s cultural legacy.