Italy’s Mountain Towns: Staying Safe and Living Well

Over 80 people lost their lives in Italy’s mountains in a single month in the summer of 2025 – at least 83 fatalities (with 5 missing) between 21 June and 23 July 2025. This shocking statistic, shared by Maurizio Dellantonio (head of the national alpine rescue corps, CNSAS) in Corriere della Sera, is a wake-up call. “I’ve never seen a summer with so many mountain deaths… we are beyond any limit,” Dellantonio lamented. The Italian Alps undeniably captivate us with their Instagram-famous peaks and lakes, and the buzz will only grow as the Milano–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics approaches. But behind the picture-perfect scenes lies alpine reality: even if you survive a mishap, a mountain rescue can leave you with hefty bills – in some regions like Trentino and Veneto, an uninjured helicopter evacuation can cost €750–1,000 per person if you’re not insured. In short, Italy’s Alps remain as alluring as ever, but they demand respect and preparation. In today’s article, we will cover some tips to enjoy Italy’s mountains to the fullest, as well as recommend ideal mountain towns for a second home or full-time living if you’re an expat or retiree moving to Italy. The Italian Alps Beyond the…