Category: South Tyrol

How to reach Laces

Attractions:
– Menhirs and Cupule Rocks | Laces
– Castle Annenberg | Laces – Val Martello

Activities:
– AquaForum | Laces
– Climbing Crag | Laces
– Archery | Laces

The apple orchards of South Tyrol surround the lively centre of Laces/Latsch. Here, in the heart of the Venosta Valley at an altitude of 639 m, is where the mild Mediterranean-Alpine Adige Valley meets the dry and sunny climate of Monte Sole mountain. Gradually, Laces became a major fruit-production centre, as well as a centre for tourism and the retail trade.
In Laces, there are also a wide range of recreational activities and cultural itineraries. Besides the numerous churches and old farms, there are relics of prehistoric times. There is a wealth of information available for those interested in culture such as guided tours to historical castles and old churches.

Besides culture, there is also a broad spectrum of recreational and sporting activities, such as the Aqua Forum in Laces. Both experienced and amateur cyclists and hikers will find an intricate network of well-marked trails with several rest stops around Laces.

Mountain Holidays

Hiking biking and mountain hiking. Laces/Latsch and the steep Val Martello are regarded as a hiking and biking haven in Venosta Valley, with trails leading from the vineyards to the Laces glacier and back. What’s more, there is a magnificent view of the valley.
Those keen on activities in the outdoors will enjoy exploring the trails that run alongside the ancient irrigation channels in the Venosta Valley. There are also relaxing excursions to the Alpine pastures and dairy farms in addition to a number of challenging high mountain trails and hiking routes around the Ortler Alps. Bordering the extensive Stelvio National Park amidst the mountainous landscape of Val Martello is a system of hiking trails running through the pristine environment. During the mild spring and in autumn, the sun-kissed Monte Sole mountain near Laces is ideal for relaxing excursions.
Besides the network of hiking and biking trails, the wide range of outdoor sporting options in the Laces and Val Martello holiday region include climbing, river rafting, tennis, swimming and sheer fun in the Laces AquaForum pools creating a total outdoor summer holiday experience.

Culture and arts

Where the Lower Venosta Valley with its Alpine-Mediterranean character meets the rugged Upper Venosta Valley there is Laces/Latsch, a lively cultural and fruit-farming centre boasting numerous examples of old architecture.
The Stelvio National Park is the largest protected area in Italy and the second-largest nature reserve in size in the Alpine region. Besides Laces and Val Martello, there are eight other municipal districts falling under the jurisdiction of the Stelvio National Park in South Tyrol, including Stelvio/Stilfs, Prato/Prad, Silandro/Schlanders and Ultimo/Ulten, spaced around the highest mountain in the region.
Numerous old castles and fortresses testify to the diverse cultural history of the Venosta Valley region. Many fortresses were saved from destruction through their utilisation and restoration; others such as ruins and architectural leftovers from the past now serve as cultural artefacts or as prized excursion destinations.

How to reach Parcines, Rablà and Tel

Attractions:
– Typewriter Museum | Parcines 
– Bad Egart Collection | Parcines
– Parcines waterfall | Parcines
– Spauregg Castle | Parcines
– Mondotreno | Rablà

Parcines/Partschins and its surrounding villages of Rablà/Rabland and Tel/Töll are located just six kilometers from the spa town of Merano/Meran, at the entrance of the Texelgruppe Nature Park. The 97m high Parcines waterfall is one of the most beautiful in the Alps.

Nature & Culture:
Blue Gold, picturesque streets, traditions & old customs, 3 museums and … plenty of character!

In Parcines/Partschins, Rablà/Rabland and Tel/Töll, there’s no way to get bored: a bounty of cultural heritage lies waiting to be discovered!

The Parchines Cascades, (also referred to as Blue Gold) is the symbol of the village and also happens to be the highest waterfall in South Tyrol. The quaint alleys and old buildings are set in a picturesque landscape. Within the old walls lie so many hidden tales going back to the origins of the village. And then there are the local inhabitants, with some typical personalities among them. Those living in such places abide by a way of life rooted in old traditions.

Each of the three villages has its own museum with a special focus. These are interesting and unique in their particular way. One of these is dedicated to Peter Mitterhofer, inventor of the typewriter. Born and bred in Parcines, he lived and worked here throughout his life. History is revived in the collection of this special museum.

Living customs & traditions handed down from one generation to another: what better way of keeping alive a communal sense of history and identity.

Like almost everywhere else, even here the trappings of modernity have also made their inroads. Yet there are still those who are still abide by the old traditions. Working the land as they did in the olden days, these characters most certainly have some interesting stories to share!

Traditions even extend to meals and eating habits and during Lent there are those who abstain from eating meat on Fridays. The locals usually don traditional attire during festivities and formal functions such as funerals. Various cultural associations see to it that their valuable heritage and its value system are preserved.

We cherish our culture, traditions, our way of life and the little things that distinguish us as a people and a community.

Food & wine:
Feeling at home … where Alpine flavours combine with Mediterranean refinement.
Traditional “Stube” parlors, sophisticated gourmet restaurants, bars and cafés: wherever you go, a rewarding gourmet experience is assured …

The enterprising catering staff in Parcines/Partschins will take care of your preferences, serving typical South Tyrolean platters that best reflect the regional gastronomic culture.

The influence of Italian cuisine blended with typical Alpine flavours results in a uniquely tasty fusion in every dish.

How to reach Chiusa

Attraktionen:
– Sabiona/Säben Monastery | Chiusa
– City museum | Chiusa
– The Capuchin church | Chiusa
– Cantina Valle Isarco | Chiusa
– Gufidaun Village Museum | Chiusa

No less a figure than Albrecht Dürer was already in love with the town of Chiusa/Klausen in 1494, engraving his impressions in The Great Fortune. Since that time, Chiusa has brought many artists and poets under its spell: they have, in turn, depicted the city in artwork and sung about it. The picturesque little town stretches between the elongated rock atop which
Säben Castle stands and the Isarco River : beautiful facades, narrow and brightly colored, line up next to one another, surmounted by Gothic churches. Inns steeped in tradition have been here for centuries, housing illustrious guests: for a long time, the only road that led south from the Brenner Pass ran right through the middle of the little town.

Culture and history in Chiusa:
The former Capuchin monastery safeguards the fabled Loreto Treasure; like the Pinakothek (art gallery) and the modern museum gallery, it is open for public viewing. Capuchin Hill , right next to the monastery and garden, offers an extraordinary view of the city and valley. The surrounding countryside is enchanting, and has been well developed for walking. Ancient trails lead past Branzoll Castle to Säben Abbey , to Pratello/Pardell, Verdignes/Verdings, Lazfons/Latzfons, and the quaint village of Gudon/Gufidaun, and then further afield where there are old farms, lush meadows and dense forests.

How to reach Castelbello

Attractions:
– The Kastelbell Castle

Castelbello/Kastelbell has more than 50km of beautiful hiking trails. The village is situated on the old Roman trade route Via Claudia Augusta, and stretches across both shores of the Adige River. In the center of the village is the ancient well with its “Frog Prince”. It seems that this famous fairy tale has its origins here.

A short distance away is the medieval Kastelbell Castle, built on a cliff high above the river. The now-restored castle was first mentioned in 1238. Today it functions as an event venue and cultural center. In the village center there are many old residences and farmsteads, as well as cafes, shops and also contemporary architecture which fits harmoniously into the appearance of the village. Castelbello is also famous for its cuisine and excellent agricultural products, from fruit and asparagus to juice, wine and fruit brandies. The Michelin-star restaurant Kuppelrain is only one of the places in Castelbello where guests can enjoy the local products.

How to reach Villanders

Attractions:
– Mountain mine expirience | Villanders
– The Odle/Geisler | Val di Funes

The excavations in the centre of the village brought to light relics from the stone, bronze and iron ages, but also traces of Roman settlements. Today’s Villandro was built on these foundations and offers its picturesque historic centre, old farms, cosy inns, and famous hotels
surrounded by a landscape blessed by the heavens. The scenery is varied, from fruit orchards to bare rock, passing through vineyards, fields, chestnut forests, meadows, woods and Alpine pastures.

These natural wonders are especially prominent in the spring, when the white flowers on the plum trees burst into bloom and the snow-capped peaks sparkle over the valley. But they can also be enjoyed in the fall, when the broadleaf trees come alive with colour, the wine is bottled and stored in the cellar and you can eat chestnuts and speck together with “Nuie”, the new wine. You can also take walks and hikes in all directions, always accompanied by a magnificent view over the valley and Dolomites.

 

How to reach Tirolo

Attractions:
– Tyrol Castle
– Chairlift | Merano – Tirolo

Situated above the spa town of Merano/Meran, Tirolo/Dorf Tirol is an ideal walking and hiking holiday destination in South Tyrol. Well-marked paths along a 70-km trail network lead across various altitudes, ranging from leisurely walks through botanical gardens to hikes along the Waalwege trails on the hillside. Mountain bike trails in diverse mountain terrain alternate with high-altitude hiking across the Spronser Seen lake plateau in the Texelgruppe Nature Park.
Tirolo is also steeped in culture and history. There are several notable castles, fortresses, and churches in and around Tirolo. Tyrol Castle, the most prominent of these, houses the South Tyrolean Museum of Culture and Provincial History. Deeply rooted in the area, culture and local traditions continue to play an integral role in the lives of inhabitants. Things to do in and around the village include shopping, sporting and cultural activities. There are upscale shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants as well as swimming pools and hiking trails. For a sporting or leisure holiday, making use of the well-equipped spas or indulging in the pleasures of the palate, there is a wide range of options for visitors in Tirolo.

Nature and Culture:
From the orchards and vineyards at around 600 meters above sea level up to the Spronser Seen lakes at 2,500 meters, Tirolo reveals fascinating nature that is both Alpine and Mediterranean in flavor. And the culture and history have a big impact on the local landscape too. Out and about on themed trails and promenades visitors will stumble upon witnesses to an eventful past. These include Tirol Castle, the most important monument to Tyrolean history, the Brunnenburg, and churches and sights such as the early-Romanesque Church of St. Peter and the Bird Care Center. Tirolo, however, is also synonymous with tradition and custom. Over the course of the year, countless cultural events are held here: from the musical Tyrolean Spring of Culture and the culinary festival So kocht Dorf Tirol (How Tirolo Cooks), to the melodious Soirées at Tirol Castle and the VinoCulti wine festival, the events are as diverse as Tirolo itself.

Food and drink:
Good food and drink is part of the way of life in Tirolo. The entire variety of South Tyrolean cuisine can be found in the award-winning restaurants, traditional inns and rustic mountain huts on the panoramic terrace above Merano. Alpine dishes made using handed-down recipes, Mediterranean treats and innovative creations are all part of the cuisine in Tirolo and have a firm place at gourmet events, traditional festivals and autumn’s Törggelen (new wine) evenings. Wine has a particular importance. The wine trail and the annual wine event, VinoCulti, bear witness to the fact that the noble grape juice has played a vital role in the vineyard-rich landscape around Tirolo. When hiking too, gourmet pleasures are just a mountain hut away. In the mountain inns of the Texelgruppe mountains you will always find “Real Quality in the Mountains” on the table.

How to reach Rifiano

Attractions:
– Church in | Rifiano
–Burgstall prehistoric settlement site in | Rifiano/Riffian

Rifiano il located on a terrace at the entrance of the Val Passiria, where the mild climate of Merano meets the alpine mountain air of the Val Passiria.

The municipality of Rifiano is located at the western side of the Val Passiria at an altitude of 504 m asl, only 5 km from the city of Merano. Its position on a south-east oriented terrace fosters the growth of grapevines and chestnut forests. Also the mild climate, which at Rifiano meets the fresh alpine air of the Val Passiria also contributes to the fact that Rifiano offers ideal conditions for your stay.

Inhabited by some 1,290 people in the Gruppo di Tessa nature park, the municipality is surrounded by forests and meadows, providing ideal hiking conditions. The Rifiano Waalweg path (Roggia di Rifiano) and the Alta Via Meranese high path are probably the most famous trails in the surroundings. The latter passes the mountain villages of Campo, Vernurio e Gaves, located between 1,000 and 1,400 m asl.

Rifiano is by the way also known by pilgrims, as it hosts the Lady of Sorrows pilgrimage church and a chapel of grace, which are also worth to be visited from an historic and artistic viewpoint. Also the municipal coat of arms of Rifiano, illustrating parts of a steeple, refers to the above mentioned pilgrimage church.

How to reach Lajen

Laion is an idyllic mountain town located on a sunny plateau along with the villages of S. Pietro/S. Peter, Tanursa/Tanürz, Ceves/Tschöfas, Fraina/Freins, Albions and Laien-Novale/Lajen-Ried, where you can admire the presumed birthplace of the famous medieval minstrel Walther von der Vogelweide (1168-1230).

Every season offers unforgettable experiences: in the spring, when the cherry trees are in full bloom, you can still ski without any problem in Gardena/Gröden valley. The well-marked
paths are a constant invitation to let yourself be tempted by the beautiful hikes through the countryside, to climb up to the mountain pastures and the peaks with their splendid scenery, or to go hiking in the Dolomites.

In fall, you will be amazed by the splendour of the broadleaf forests around Laion. The views from Wasserbühl over the valley, “Castel Forte/Trostburg” Castle and the villages on the opposite slope of the Valle Isarco are truly unforgettable. In the fall, there are many typical inns that take part in the traditional Törggelen .

In the winter, you can have fun playing curling, on the natural sled run , go cross-country skiing or take a stroll on the snow-free paths . The “Dolomiti Superski” area , where all skiers will find just what they’re looking for, is just 10 km away. No matter what you enjoy, Laion and its villages have a lot to offer, without ever giving up your well-deserved peace and quiet.

 

How to reach Caines

Attractions:
– Earth pillars | Caines
– The tractor museum | Caines

Caines is located above Merano, near Rifiano at the entrance to the Val Passiria.

Located at 592 m asl at the entrance of the Val Passiria, Caines is one of the smallest municipalities of South Tyrol and has got some 400 inhabitants. It is surrounded by vineyards and fruit orchards and is a good starting point for walking to the neighbouring villages. Highly recommendable is the Roggia di Caines (Waalweg), as well as the impressive natural scenery of the Gruppo di Tessa nature park. Worth a visit is also the Val Sopranes with its unique lake plateau.

The present-day parish church dates back to the Roman period and is dedicated to S. Mauritius and S. Korbinian. According to legends, the prior church in this place was dedicated to S. Valentino and Zeno by the above mentioned Korbinian.

Our tip: a visit in the little tractor museum hosted at the Gasthof Ungericht. This is where you can admire about 30 Porsche-diesel tractors of various construction years.

How to reach Merano

Culinary art:
– Pur Südtirol
– Restaurant – Villa Heidelberg | Merano

Attractions:
– Therme | Merano
– Kunst Meran | Merano
– Palais Mamming Museum | Merano
– Prince’s Castle | Merano
– The wine-growing museum | Merano
– Touriseum | Merano
– Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle | Merano
– Merano 2000 Summer
– La torre delle polveri

As the second largest urban center in the province of South Tyrol, Merano/Meran is well known for its cultural diversity. The harmonious mix of Italian Mediterranean and Alpine traditions in South Tyrol contribute to the colorful lifestyle in the spa town of Merano. Its urban development and vibrant multi-ethnic culture is manifested in the diverse architecture and local cuisine.

The medieval arcades, castles and town gates in Merano bear witness to its historical role as a medieval center in Tyrol. The present-day thermal baths in the center are rooted in the 19th century tradition of Merano as a spa town. Visitors can discover the landmarks, churches and museums in Merano on their own or join a guided tour with one of the expert local guides.

Food and Wine
Nowhere is the cultural richness of the spa town more obvious than while eating and drinking in Merano/Meran, a meeting point of cultures.

Active and Relaxing
Whether for jogging, football, tennis, skiing, or swimming: the people of Merano/Meran are passionate about sports, and running events such as the annual “Half Marathon Merano Lagundo” and “run4fun” are extremely popular. Accordingly, the range of attractive offers for active vacationers is very diverse, for example at the sports and leisure facilities of the company “Meranarena”, which includes the climbing hall “Rockarena”, the outdoor pool “Lido Merano” and the grounds of the Tennis Club Merano.
Nestled in a green valley, surrounded by majestic mountain peaks, Merano offers holidaymakers Mediterranean flair set against an Alpine backdrop. Because of the protected location of the city and its year-round mild climate, plants from all over the world thrive in Merano. Beautiful green areas and walking paths make the city a paradise for nature lovers. The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle on the eastern edge of the city is considered to be one of the most beautiful botanical sites in the world.
These trails are also supplemented by the connected hiking trails in Merano’s immediate vicinity. At the skiing and hiking area Merano 2000, located just above the city, vacationers will be spoiled for choice thanks to the numerous mountain biking trails, hiking trails, via ferrata and summit destinations.
The Terme Merano thermal baths are the very epitome of well-being and relaxation at the highest level. In this centrally located thermal resort, visitors have access to 15 year-round pools (including two with radon-containing thermal water), a spacious sauna area and a “Spa & Vital Center”.

Contact:
Merano Tourist office
Corso Libertà 45
39012 Merano
+39 0473-272000