Measuring 1 ml in width by 1½ mls in length, this compact, attractive spa town has considerable character and history, offering a sympathetic mix of old and modern.

At its centre is busy, pedestrianised Via Roma, boasting fine medieval and renaissance buildings, some decorated with frescoes which are now home to stylish, upmarket shops. The narrow, cobbled streets leading off Via Roma house similar old buildings and historic churches as well as lively bars, cafes and restaurants popular with locals and tourists alike.

Lots of non-ski-related activities assure the resort's popularity as a year-round destination. However, Bormio is really geared to the winter sports holiday maker and is probably the most popular ski resort in Italy.

Bormio also provides a gastronomic experience, eating here is a major attraction, both on and off the pistes. Surprisingly quiet during the week, Bormio really comes to life at the weekends, as people pour in from the major north Italian cities. They have to hike quite a distance, as Bergamo is the nearest airport (three and a half hours away). But Bormio keeps its charm, even though the old centre is surrounded by more modern developments. It also offers consistently reliable snow.

Locality:

Bormio is situated in N Italy, just S of the Swiss frontier, 24 mls SE of Livigno, 40 mls NE of Sondrio, 140 mls NE of Milan airport, 115 mls NE of Bergamo airport. It is located at the foot of Stelvio Pass, which separates Lombardy from German-speaking South Tyrol. Bormio is within the borders of the Stelvio National Park. Ski Information: Highest lift: 3017m (9898ft), Lowest lift: 1225m (4019ft), Vertical drop: 1792m (5879ft), Number of lifts: 24, Uplift capacity: 13724 p/hr, Number of slopes: 21, Beginner: 48%, Intermediate: 43%, Expert: 9%, Total piste length: 39km, Cross country: 12km.