Brown bear. Photo: Alex Igna The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is reminding travelers heading to Italy’s mountains to make sure they have appropriate insurance and equipment before taking part in hiking, mountaineering and other adventure activities.
The advisory comes as Italian mountain rescue teams continue to respond to incidents involving hikers, climbers and other outdoor enthusiasts across the country.
In one of the latest cases, a 44-year-old Dutch tourist called for help after losing track while climbing the Col dei Bos trail. The man became stuck on the rock face, directly below the historic military hospital, between the Alpine Troops' Via Ferrata and the Falzarego Towers, at roughly 2,300 meters. He was lowered with a 40-meter winch, the helicopter rescue technician then hoisted the man aboard and dropped him off near the military hospitals.
Photo: ShutterstockThe FCDO advises travelers to check that their travel insurance specifically covers the activities they intend to undertake. For higher-risk sports, including off-piste skiing, mountain biking, climbing, paragliding and BASE jumping, insurance should cover mountain rescue, helicopter costs and repatriation or transfer for medical treatment.
The warning also applies to activities such as skiing, potholing and mountaineering, where standard travel insurance may not provide sufficient protection.
Travelers are advised to check weather forecasts and mountain conditions before setting out and to carry appropriate equipment, including a map, compass, GPS and reliable telecommunications equipment. Proper footwear and clothing suited to the terrain and season are also recommended.
The FCDO particularly warns against undertaking mountain activities alone. Travelers should plan their route in advance, consider their fitness and experience, and think about hiring a qualified guide when tackling difficult terrain.
It also recommends leaving copies of an itinerary and insurance details with someone who is not part of the trip.
The advice is particularly relevant in regions such as Trentino, where visitors may encounter challenging terrain and wildlife. The FCDO specifically directs travelers hiking in the region to local guidance on what to do if they encounter a brown bear.
Since bears generally avoid people and do not see humans as prey, most encounters can be avoided by staying on marked trails and making some noise, such as talking, clapping or whistling, so a bear knows you are nearby.
Keeping dogs on a lead and never approaching, feeding or disturbing a bear are also mandatory precaution measures.
Hikers must also stay well away from bears that are eating or from their dens, and never leave food or rubbish behind in the forest.
If you spot a bear, stay calm and do not run. If it is far away, slowly retreat and give it plenty of space. If you suddenly find yourself close to one, avoid sudden movements or shouting and calmly let the bear know you are there before slowly backing away.
Never throw objects at a bear or try to fight it. If an attack occurs, stay calm and, if necessary, lie face down, protect your head and neck with your arms and remain still until the bear leaves. A backpack can also provide some protection.
Do not try to escape by running or climbing a tree. Bears can run extremely fast and are excellent climbers. If a safe place such as a car is immediately nearby, head there instead.
Anyone who becomes lost or is involved in an accident in Italy should call 112, the country's emergency number.
With Italy's mountains attracting large numbers of international visitors, recent rescues highlight why preparation, appropriate insurance and respect for changing mountain conditions remain essential.