EXCURSION TO THE CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN THE ANCIENT CELLARS OF INTROZZO
An unusual setting for Christmas markets which we will reach by an easy excursion.
Introzzo, a small hamlet in Valvarrone, uphill Dervio, hosts a Christmas market arranged in the old and historic cellars which have been opened for the occasion.
Unique handmade handicrafts, typical cold cuts, local cheese, Christmas gifts, costume jewellery, products from the hive and many more … all realized and created with passion, love and craftmanship by artisans coming from the area as well as from the whole region.
This unique event is possible thanks to the Municipality and Valvarrone volunteers who have done their best for transforming the hamlet in a Christmas village.
Technical details
Difference in altitude: 270 m
Distance: 5 km
Description
The excursion starts from Vestreno and runs to Introzzo along ancient cobblestone mule tracks getting lost in the labyrinth of alleys in the hamlets we encounter. Let’s get lost in the hamlets to enjoy past and present traditions and lives; let’s walk along the mule tracks and the fallen leaves in the forests; let’s enjoy Christmas atmosphere in a unique place and setting.
POINTS OF INTEREST
- Christmas market in a unique setting;
- Valvarrone hamlets: a labyrinth of alleys to get lost in;
- Tasting of local products;
- Buying handicrafts to give as unique Christmas presents and at the same time support local business.
Difficulty level
Terrain: mostly on cobblestone mule tracks and paths in the forest. Trekking poles recommended for stability.
Gradient: light
Attention points: slippery path in case of wet weather.
Excursion suitable for adults and teens in good health and physical fitting conditions, used to walk in mountains, considering difference in level and length.
Excursion is not suitable for people suffering from heart, respiratory, postural diseases or being overweight; not suitable to people just having been surged; please inform the guide about any disease worth to be communicated and which could affect the excursion.
In case of snow, snowshoes could be required.
Dogs must be on a leash owing to the presence of wild animals in the wood and out of respect for other participants who could be afraid of or annoyed by them. Do not hesitate to contact the Guide.
Responsible tourism
The excursions I offer also aim at supporting local economic activities and at living unique experiences closely in touch with and with respect to people and places.
That’s why they often include tasting experiences and/or chance to buy local products directly from producers, mainly small local activities working hard and with passion to keep traditions alive;
That’s why groups I accompany are usually small … in order to meet and live local people and enter their lives and the calmness of the place on tiptoes.
The Cape Town Declaration in 2002 recognises that Responsible Tourism takes a variety of forms, it is characterised by travel and tourism which:
- minimises negative economic, environmental and social impacts;
- generates greater economic benefits for local people and enhances the well-being of host communities, improves working conditions and access to the industry;
- involves local people in decisions that affect their lives and life changes;
- makes positive contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage, to the maintenance of the world’s diversity;
- provides more enjoyable experiences for tourists through more meaningful connections with local people, and a greater understanding of local cultural, social and environmental issues;
- provide access for people with disabilities and the disadvantaged;
- is culturally sensitive, engenders respect between tourists and hosts, and builds local pride and confidence.
- Meeting point 8.15am at large and free car parking in Lecco Bione (nearest railway station in Lecco – Please contact the Guide); here we will share cars to reach Vestreno;
- 10am excursion to introzzo; lunch in the hamlet; visit to Christmas markets;
- Return to Vestreno around 4.30pm; headlamp compulsory.
CANCELLATION/POSTPONEMENT
The excursion can be cancelled or postponed anytime by the Guide at her absolute discretion, in case safe and proper conditions cannot be guaranteed following bad weather conditions on the day of the excursion or on the previous days.
Any fees paid will be considered valid as a voucher on the next excursion or refunded (for foreign people) – max validity 1 year from first excursion reserved.
No refund or voucher is due in case of cancellation by the participants on the previous day as well on the same day of the excursion.
Adult: € 22;
Children and teens less than 12 year old accompanied by an adult: € 18
Inclusions: Nature Guide fee accompanying the group – AIGAE LO639; liability insurance; guide expenses.
Exclusions: any lunch and break; any transport to the meeting point; any tasting; injury insurance for the participants; any service not included in the item “inclusions”.
EXTRA COSTS TO BE PAID ON SITE
Lunch
Reservation required within Saturday 7th December 2024, directly from my website www.trekandtaste.it or by contacting me directly: e-mail sabrina@trekandtaste.it and mobile +39 347 04 05 703.
MINIMUM NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS: 5
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS: 15
Minors must be accompanied by an adult holding responsible.
Participation to the excursions implies unconditioned acceptance of the rulesavailable on my website www.trekandtaste.com.
INJURY INSURANCE FOR TREKKERS
Participation fee only includes liability insurance; no injury insurance coverage is provided to Participants to the excursion. It is advisable to take out a suitable injury insurance.
EIC Organization offer an annual injury insurance which can be activated by the Trip&Trek app and amounting to 10 euros per year, per person. The insurance is valid 1 year whenever you participate to an excursion with and AIGAE Guide. For more details, please contact info@escursioni-italia.it.
Vestreno is part of Valvarrone municipality and can be easily reached from Dervio along a road offering a great view on Lake Como.
Earlier meeting point in Lecco Bione can be arranged to share cars.
- Hiking shoes are required, preferably high laced-up and having soles in Vibram material to walk safely on any terrain and in any season.
- Hiking poles considerably reducing stress on joints and knees; telescopic poles are very handy.
- Backpack to carry personal belongings, spare clothing, and food and water supplies.
- Dress in layers according to the season (shirt, long-sleeved shirt, Fleece jacket or sweatshirt, rain and wind stopper jacket); rain poncjho in case of unstable weather and summer storms.
- Small rampoons always suggested in winter;
- Headlamp compulsory; duvet, gloves and wool cap in autumn;
no measures at the moment