Nestled in the northernmost part of Italy, Alto Adige, also known as South Tyrol, is an autonomous region that straddles the Austrian border. This unique blend of cultures is evident in everything from the language spoken – a mix of Italian and German – to the cuisine and architecture. While Italy is famed for its rolling hills, pristine beaches, and ancient historical sites, Alto Adige offers a different kind of charm, tucked away in the foothills of the majestic Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage mountain range.
Beyond its stunning natural beauty, Alto Adige is a year-round destination, attracting visitors with its diverse activities and rich cultural experiences. In winter, the region transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders to its 750 miles of slopes across 30 ski areas. For those seeking a more leisurely pace, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing offer breathtaking views of the snow-covered peaks. Come summer, the region bursts with life as hikers traverse its 10,000 miles of signposted trails, cyclists explore picturesque villages, and outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the warm waters of Kalterer See, the warmest lake in the Alps.
Where to Stay
For an opulent stay, consider Castel Hörtenberg, a five-star hotel housed within a restored Renaissance-era castle on the outskirts of Bolzano. The 24-room property boasts preserved character with stucco ceilings, original stone walls, and cherished frescoes. For a more bucolic experience, head to Gasthof Kohlern, a 16-room farmhouse inn nestled atop Kohlern mountain above Bolzano. This charming inn offers individually designed rooms surrounded by lush forest in the summer and snowy peaks in the winter. Nature enthusiasts and winter sports fanatics will find their haven at Forestis Dolomites, an ultra-luxury resort nestled amid the UNESCO World Heritage-recognized mountains. Its 62 rooms boast panoramic windows showcasing the stunning landscape. This ski-in, ski-out property offers a range of activities, including snowshoeing, sledding, hiking, biking, fishing, and cooking classes. Forestis is also known for its multi-level spa, recently named by Vogue as one of the best in the world, offering signature treatments inspired by the pure spring water and fresh mountain air.
Where to Eat and Drink
Alto Adige’s cuisine is a delightful fusion of Austrian and Italian flavors. Start your day with freshly baked bread at Bäckerei Franziskaner in Bolzano, where you’ll find a variety of loaves, including spelt, whole grain rye, and muesli bread. Throughout the region, savor custard-filled croissants and donuts for a sweet treat. For a leisurely lunch, indulge in authentic dishes at a farmhouse inn or winery. Bistro Castel Turmhof offers meter-long charcuterie boards on its terrace, while Restaurant Gasthof Kohlern serves up a trio of regional cheese, beet, and spinach knödel dumplings. These cheesy round dumplings are so buttery soft that they are enjoyed with a fork only. Other culinary staples include barley soup, polenta, and ratatouille.
Aperitivo hour, or marende as it’s called in South Tyrol, is a cherished ritual where locals and tourists gather for a drink and snacks. During this time, enjoy cured meats, especially speck, a local smoked ham, with a selection of cheeses like gray, alpine wild herb, and Stangenkäse. In cities like Bolzano and Meran, the main squares are bustling with life as people enjoy a Hugo spritz, a regional take on the classic spritz made with elderflower liqueur. For a taste of local wines, try the dry white wine of Pinot Gris or a chilled light-bodied red wine like Schiava.
Dinner time in Alto Adige is an early affair, typically between 6 to 8 p.m., with menus centered around simply prepared meats. Fine dining restaurants offer lamb, veal, or venison, while country-inspired menus feature goulash stews with beef braised in cumin and paprika. Don’t miss Löwengrube in Bolzano for a memorable dining experience.
No meal is complete without dessert, and Alto Adige’s quintessential treat is apple strudel served warm with a dollop of whipped cream.
What to Do
With an annual average of 300 days of sunshine, Alto Adige provides endless opportunities to explore the outdoors. In winter, the region transforms into a ski paradise with 750 miles of slopes across 30 ski areas, including the country’s top-rated Seiser Alm Snow Park. Summer offers a diverse range of activities, from hiking through the Dolomites to biking through Tyrolean villages and exploring the local lake culture around Kalterer See. In Bolzano, the Obstplatz market offers a glimpse into local life, where residents gather to buy fresh flowers, spices, and fresh pasta. For a touch of fashion, visit Vanity and Rili Atelier for Milano-designed clothing and leather accessories.
Beyond outdoor adventures, Alto Adige is rich in cultural attractions. The Messner Mountain Museums, a series of six museums created by mountaineer Reinhold Messner, offer an educational journey into mountain culture while showcasing stunning architectural marvels. Another must-visit is the Abbazia di Novacella, a working monastery since 1142, where you’ll discover a library with 97,000 handwritten books, a local osteria, seasonal events, and one of the oldest active wineries in the world.
Wine & Wellness
Alto Adige is renowned for its wine production, contributing one percent to Italy’s total. Explore the region’s Wine Road, visiting individual wineries to sample the bounty of local wines. Cantina Kurtatsch offers a Wine Expedition, a day-long opportunity to hike through vineyards and taste around 12 varieties. Cantina Terlano specializes in long-aging white wines, and their tasting terrace at Elena Walch overlooks fairytale vineyards and Lake Caldaro.
Wellness is a cornerstone of Alto Adige’s culture. The region incorporates centuries-old traditions of hay baths and mountain pine treatments into its spa culture. The thermal baths at Terme Merano are world-renowned for their soothing properties, while a series of intimate, mountain hideaways offer immersive natural getaways for a mental reset.
From its stunning landscapes and rich culture to its world-class wines and wellness experiences, Alto Adige offers a unique and unforgettable experience for every traveler. It is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, offering a taste of the true Italian Alps.
