Running and running training in Valtellina
Training in the mountains: runners, skyrunners and marathon runners
Agriturismo La Fiorida is literally set in the green and overlooks the Sentiero Valtellina, a very long bike and pedestrian path that, from nearby Lake Como, winds its way to Sondrio and Bormio.
Long flat running
The peculiarity of the Sentiero Valtellina is that it is flat, but certainly not monotonous. On a circuit of more than 30 km, which for long stretches runs along the Adda River, you can get from Lake Como to Morbegno without encountering a single car: a full immersion ride in nature, away from smog and noise, starting directly from the farm.
In summer, running is accompanied by a pleasant breeze, while in winter the muscles are aided by constant sunshine, given the track’s southern exposure. Not only that, the track is equipped with shaded picnic areas where you can find fresh water and wooden tools for stretching.
Whether your training involves hilly trails or you prefer to get your ankles used to dirt, there is no shortage of meadows and dirt roads here. Taking advantage of the many fire trails, you can make loops of up to about 3 hours between 1,000 and 1,500 meters above sea level, even in winter.
1,000-meter repeats or short distances
For those who want to speed up or challenge themselves with a time trial, the Valtellina Trail is entirely measured with so much passing every 100 meters. The bike and pedestrian path alternates long straight stretches with winding sections that enliven it and make it varied. The surface is fast and perfect in all weather conditions.
Fartlek or hill training
When you are looking for strengthening and brilliance on changes of slope, fartlek on hilly track is a must for any runner. For this type of workout, there is a truly impressive up and down course near the Fiorida that is completely out of traffic and is about 12 km long.
Repeats uphill and beyond
Starting from the farmhouse, one has the opportunity to run uphill, even reaching altitudes close to 2,000 meters. Again, paved roads with little traffic or other absolutely quiet white roads abound.
For some years now, a fixed destination for those who love outdoor sports is a firebreak entirely drawn on the orographic right of the valley that allows long slow trails of more than 2 hours at altitudes ranging from 1100 to 1500 meters. The bottom is unpaved and always passable.
The backdrop for these mountain training routes are the nature and forests of the Cech Coast, or the Orobic side of the Pre-Alps towards Val Gerola and Val Tartano, which already hosts national skyrunning races.
For skyrace enthusiasts, 20 minutes from the agriturismo you can reach Valmasino, home of the legendary Kima Trophy: the “Great Race on the Sentiero Roma,” or Pasturo (Lc) where the Scaccabarozzi Trophy, the “SkyMarathon delle Grigne,” starts.
Workout with Personal Trainer
To be followed in every phase of training (preparation of personalized tables, gym and outdoor work), La Fiorida provides, upon request, ISEF athletes and FISKY (Italian Skyrunning Federation) coaches, authentic professionals at the service of athletes. Also upon request, we can also offer real internships with bigs in middle distance, track, road, mountain and skyrunning.
Post-workout relaxation
After your run, our Technogym-equipped gymnasium offers the opportunity to unload and defatigate your muscles. Our experienced massage therapists and a massage therapist are available to guests. The large swimming pool, whirlpool, steam room, sauna and vitarium complete the wellness offerings.
Athlete menu at Four Seasons restaurant
The kitchen staff, led by chef Gianni Tarabini, is available to prepare dishes suitable for runners and their energy needs, such as special cooking with fat control. Our farm offers milk, cheeses, meats and cured meats of our own production, while vegetables and small fruits are grown in our greenhouses: the very short supply chain of the La Fiorida farm is at the service of athletes and those who want to eat healthy.
Hospitality and services for runners
Adding to this rich offering are our services to runners staying at La Fiorida:
- interviews with experienced runners in the area for route and mileage information;
- Laundry for running laundry;
- Appropriately arranged supplements in refreshment areas.