Italy launches inclusive trekking projects to strengthen community wellbeing

Italian communities are using trekking and other outdoor activities to foster social inclusion and combat isolation. In Predappio, the "Orizzonti di Benessere" project, organized by the San Martino APS association with support from the Fondazione Cassa dei Risparmi di Forlì, offers two short routes for participants of varying abilities and concludes with a rest area for social interaction.

In the Asiago plateau, local health authority Ulss 7 Pedemontana and municipal administrations are promoting barrier‑free mountain tourism. An event on 27 June showcased adapted sports such as alpine skiing, tandem cycling, and electric‑bike rides, with flights for people with disabilities provided by a Lions Club‑backed tourism aircraft.

At the same time, the National Alpine Rescue Corps warns that summer hikes are seeing a rise in accidents caused by falls, disorientation, heat‑related illness and lack of equipment. Authorities advise choosing suitable itineraries, checking weather forecasts, carrying proper clothing, water, first‑aid kits and GPS devices, avoiding solo trips, and informing others of travel plans. Emergency calls should be placed to 112, with location details supplied whenever possible.