Val di Rabbi: Iron-Rich Springs and Uncrowded Alpine Pastures Among the Ortler

The Val di Rabbi branches left from the Val di Sole, nearly hidden by the terrain's configuration. It has no major ski resorts, no famous villages, and doesn't appear in mainstream guidebooks. What it does have is rare: iron-rich springs that gush directly from the rock, a National Park — the Stelvio — that protects it entirely, and a density of hiking trails that could keep a walker busy for weeks.

The Rabbi spa and iron-rich springs

As early as the eighteenth century, Rabbi's waters were renowned for their healing properties: the natural iron bicarbonate springs were prescribed for anemia. The historic spa facility, open since the late nineteenth century, still operates with simple treatments and prices that are modest compared to the great Alpine spas. But the real experience is walking to the free springs in the forest — stone fountains from which rust-colored water flows with an intense metallic taste, drinkable and free of charge.

Saènt waterfall and park trails

The Saènt waterfall is the endpoint of the valley's most popular route: about two and a half hours of hiking on a well-marked trail, with 700 meters of elevation gain. The water falls 90 meters in a spectacular vertical plunge, surrounded by spruces and larches. In summer the trail is frequented but never crowded: the Stelvio Park limits tourist pressure with clear information and restricted parking. September is the best month: the larches begin to turn gold.

Alpine pastures and malga cheese

At high altitude, Rabbi's malghe (alpine dairy farms) still produce butter and cheese according to traditional methods. Alpine malga cheeses, with a robust, persistent flavor, can be found here in artisanal form, sold directly by the dairymen at prices between 15 and 20 euros per kilo. The village of Rabbi Fonti, with its eighteenth-century church and local stone houses, is the rest stop before ascending to the high pastures. Access to the valley is from Malè, in the Val di Sole, about 15 kilometers away.