Discover all the highlight activities of each region and plan your stay in South Tyrol.
A Natural Monument!
The 82 m high waterfall is fed by the Möltner Brook. The path leads past the old Vilpiano's Wasserwaal from the 17th century. The water was once used to irrigate the fields.
Accessible by foot in ten minutes from the village center of Vilpiano.
Seeschlössl: this romantic house is situated on the west bank of the large Montiggl Lake. History: Josef von Zastrow, who came from Germany and also owned Aichberg, in 1888, built it. At this time he also owned both the lakes. In 1902 the village of Eppan took over both lakes. Architectural style: the whole building is very pleasing and blends in well with the scenery. The style is middle Aged, the windows have pointed arches and the gables have a staircase form finish. The painter Max Sparer from Tramin often painted this house. Walking: as soon as you get to know the two Montiggler Lakes, it is no problem to find this beautiful house. Walks through the Spring Valley and round the large lake take you past this house
In 1250, Bishop Bruno of Brixen founded Bruneck Castle, which served as his summer residence. The town that evolved below the castle walls took on its name. After an eventful history, having been used as a prison and as a school, today the castle houses the fifth Messner Mountain Museum, which focuses on mountain peoples. The historical structure was carefully excavated and restored. The rooms, however, were not sufficient to house the museum and so a section is housed underground, in spaces that were once part of the fortification walls. Modern architectural forms were used for all the additions and new buildings, with concrete, steel, wood and glass having been used as materials. Only the parts that had to be provided as temporary extensions, for example the cashier areas and rooms for temporary exhibitions, were consciously done in wood and may be dismantled at any time.
The Tyrolean Rebellion of 1809 was a rebellion of peasants in the County of Tyrol led by Andreas Hofer against the occupation of their homeland by the French and Bavarian troops within the context of the War of the Fifth Coalition against Napoleon I.
The cloister of the cathedral of Brixen/Bressanone is one of the most important art monuments in South Tyrol. Its origins date back to pre-Romanesque times. The complex was rebuild in the romanesque (12th century) and gothic (14th century) phases. In this last major reconstruction phase of the 14th century the sacred building was vaulted with a gothic groined vault. The well-preserved gothic frescoes, which depict themes of the religious and medieval life, are particularly breathtaking. Some of the most extraordinary frescoes of the cloister are the presentation of an elephant (3rd arcade) and the adoration of the Kings (13th arcade).
In the lush green quarter of Maia Bassa/Untermais lies one of Europe’s most iconic racecourses – a place where sporting excellence meets architectural clarity and historical charm. Opened in 1935, the Merano racecourse extends across 40 hectares and impresses with its striking rationalist design: clean lines, functional elegance, and a strong sense of symmetry. The two- story grandstand, with its flat roofs and sweeping steps, is a modernist landmark of its time. Measuring 150 meters in length, it offers seating for up to 15,000 spectators and a view that frames the excitement of the track.
Since its inauguration, the Merano racecourse has established itself as a major centre for equestrian sports. Its crown jewel is the Gran Premio di Merano, a demanding 5,000-meter steeplechase featuring 24 obstacles. Held annually on the last Sunday of September, this prestigious event attracts top-tier jockeys, horses, and visitors from across Europe. In its early years, the venue even hosted polo matches.
Another beloved tradition is the Haflinger Gallop Race, held every Easter Monday since 1896 – predating the racecourse itself. Originally run on the meadows near the former Meranerhof Hotel, this festive event begins with a colorful parade through the old town of Merano and culminates in an exhilarating race at the track in front of cheering crowds.
Racing season runs from May to October, offering some 25 event days full of excitement, heritage, and atmosphere. But Merano’s racecourse is more than a sports venue – it has become a stage for culture, hosting open-air concerts and events like the renowned Maia Music Festival, where international artists bring rhythm to the grandstands. In earlier decades, polo was played here – a nod to the site’s cosmopolitan past.
Did you know?
Before the racecourse was built, the site was home to a large pond – a popular destination for boating and canoeing, and a cherished leisure spot among the locals of Merano.
The mountain mine in Villanders was one of the most important mining areas in Tyrol during the Middle Ages and is now one of the few mines in South Tyrol that is open to the public as a visitors ‘attraction. Explore the labyrinth of tunnels and immerse yourself in the fascinating mining history of Villanders, which goes back centuries.
The Villanders mine had a total of 16 tunnels covering an area of about 20 km, two-thirds of which were dug by hand and one-third with the use of explosives (black powder).
The extracted materials were: silver, lead (galena), copper and blende. The advancement of a miner, between 8 and 12 m per year, was performed mainly on his knees or supine. At the discovery of a mineral deposit of greater size it was necessary to enlarge the tunnel for the transport of minerals and waste rock. The average life of a miner was between 35 and 40 years.
Opening hours:
TUNNEL ELISABETH
Guided tour
- Tuesday and Thursday at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
- Sunday at 10:30
- Meeting point at the tunnel Elisabeth
- Duration: approx. 1,5 h
ELISABETH AND LORENZ TUNNELS
Guided tours
- in July & August on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.
- Meeting point at the tunnel Elisabeth
- Duration: approx. 2,5 h
- In the months of July and August there is also a guidance on Wednesday at 10:30.
More information about the Silver Mine: https://bergwerk.it/
Look very closely and you may be able to spot eye-catching rock formations – the Latemar Dolls frozen into stone according to the ancient legend. Walkers can explore the Labyrinth Trail leading directly up to the Latemar Towers into the Dolomites – UNESCO World Heritage.
The Kronplatz Bike Park is anything but ordinary. Instead of sketching trails on a drawing board, we went right into the forest and used whatever we found: Steep slope? Steep trail. Plenty of space? Perfect for jumps. Roots all over the place? Well, we’re in a forest, so there will be roots. In places where dredging was allowed, we put our excavators to work. And wherever it wasn’t, well, we didn’t. The result: At Kronplatz, there’s no copy-paste – each trail tells its own story.
And the trail names are quite unique, too: Franz and Hans are already legendary. They’ve been a household name in the community for years. But their successors are by no means inferior to them and have long been among the favourites of countless TrailTrophy and Alpine Enduro Series participants.
18 trails await you: 1 easy-moderate, 3 moderate, 10 moderate-difficult and 2 difficult.
With a total of 5 lifts and cable-cars (Kronplatz 2000 lift, Olang 1+2 lift, Ried lift, Ruis lift and Piz de Plaies lift) up and running all summer, our mountain bikers are spoilt for choice – that’s more than most places in the Alps can say for themselves. And with the exception of the Piz de Plaies lift, they all lead right to the peak at 2,272 m above sea-level, complete with jaw-dropping 360° views.
In San Genesio at 1,435 m asl, located on the „Malgorer“ Salto, there ist the most ancient larch tree of the Salto high plateau.
Its age cannot be exactly determined.
This ancient larch tree is an an aesthetic feature in the middle of the wide larch groves on the Salto.
The lowest strongest branches form a candelabra shape. The tree crown could develop freely upward due to the lack of competition.
The once splendid tree has suffered damage due to the snow pressure in the winter of 2008/2009, numerous branches were pressed down and broken.
Height of the tree: 24m
Diameter: 2,03m
Circumference: 6,40m
Locality: Montoppio
Sea level: 1435 m
The Cantina Valle Isarco was founded in 1961. The simple production hall originally built in 1978 was restructured in 2005 in order to separate the operational functions and to give the building an appropriate new appearance. The new part of the building made of concrete and the remaining structure were brought together by a unifying grey-red plaster shell, which symbolizes the connection to the terroir. Many steel components were given an oxide red shading, a color chosen to make the building look like a stone that has risen up amongst the vineyards. A brick ceiling now covers the barrique cellar, and the walls are covered in clay plaster. The offices and meeting rooms were renovated and refurnished; bright colors now accentuate the rooms. To round this all off, the tasting and sales room was redesigned in 2014, and an educational exhibit on wine was added as well.
The idyllic Sompunt lake freezes in winter and becomes a skating rink. A magical winter landscape surrounds the small lake where you can skate during the day and in the evening.
Skates and curling stones can be rented at the lake.
On the Val Venosta wine route hikers can enjoy an insightful and pleasurable tour throughout the year. For long distances the wine route follows the rogge, which were originally built as artificial irrigation channels. At times, it runs past farms or crosses private property and vineyards. The people who live and work here are happy to offer passers-by a glimpse into their wayof life and work. Hikers and lovers of nature asked to respect the property and traditions of this region and to approach nature with care. Along the way notice boards provide information on the landscape, the wine, the restaurants and other food outlets, and the local wineries.
The 2.5 hour long hike can also be undertaken in sections and in both directions.
An alley leads to the church between the Steinbock inn and the village smith. The alley is called “Defregger-alley” due to the fact that the history painter Franz von Defregger (1835-1921) used this idyllic subject as a background for his famous painting “Das letzte Aufgebot – the last array”. This alley, which depicts the ensemble of both churches and the cemetery, was left unchanged in the last 500 years.
Stufels is a hidden jewel of Brixen: Inhabited in the neolithic and roman periods, it is considered one of the most charming quarters of the episcopal city. Located between the rivers Eisack and Rienz, Stufels has a picturesque building stock. With its guardian angel church, attractive shops and artistic highlights, Stufels invites you to stroll around as well as take a relaxing stroll along the riverbank. Whoever visits Stufels approaches Brixen's actual core: quality of life in its most beautiful form.
The rectangular keep was once part of the imposing Ortenstein Castle, which loomed high above the town. Originally built as the residence of the Tyrolean burgrave, the castle underwent numerous alterations over the centuries and was eventually dismantled in the 16th century—except for the Gunpowder Tower. From 1626, the tower was used as a gunpowder storage to protect the city of Merano from a potentially catastrophic explosion during the Thirty Years' War. This is how it earned its name and became an important part of the town’s defensive structures.
With its two interconnected towers, the Gunpowder Tower was particularly well protected from attacks. To the north, remnants of defensive moats can still be seen, which once served as the last line of defence against invading forces.
Today, the Gunpowder Tower offers a fantastic panoramic view of Merano and the Adige Valley. The steep climb is well worth the effort: from here, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the town and the surrounding nature. The tower is not just a piece of history, but also a wonderful viewpoint that brings the city's past and its defences to life.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to take in the view, the Gunpowder Tower is a must-visit during your time in Merano.
The Gunpowder Tower is located on the Tappeiner Promenade, which is basically accessible and therefore well suited for wheelchairs and pushchairs, although it is paved with gravel. The best access point for families with pushchairs or wheelchair users is from Quarazze, as the entrance is level. From there, the Gunpowder Tower is about a 1-hour walk. Alternatively, you can also start from the via Galilei street or the Gilf Promenade, although these two paths have a difference in altitude of around 60 metres. Thorough planning is therefore advisable. This tour is also suitable for older people and families with children. There are various benches along the way where you can take a break.
The Gunpowder Tower is accessible only via stairs, making it unsuitable for those with limited mobility.
Please note: There are no public toilets along the Tappeiner Promenade. However, you can stop off at the various restaurants and cafés. Please enquire in advance about their opening hours.
There is no tactile guidance system or other aids for the blind on the promenades in Merano and at the Gunpowder Tower.
Skate rental. Bar, restaurant and pizzeria. Free Wi-Fi zone.
Entry:
Adults € 5,50 - with skate rental € 10,00
Children (up to 12 years) € 3,50 - with skate rental € 7,00
With Alta Badia Summer Card - 5%.
Opening hours may change due to team trainings or occasional events.
The Lake Tret – also called Lake Santa Maria – is located in Alta Val di Non near St. Felix, at the point where South Tyrol and the Italian-speaking Trentino meet. The way to the sea proceeds through the forest and across larch meadows, by the wayside we watch various forest flowers and many butterflies.
With a height of 86 metres, this church's bell tower is the tallest steeple built of stone in South Tyrol. In the early 20th century the medieval nave made place for the present design by the architect Franz Mayr, though the Gothic chancel har remained with its frescoes. The martyrdom of the curch's patron saints Julitta and Quiricus is depicted in a fresco cycle on the southern wall.
The Fane Alm is a mountain pasture village, located above Vals at a sea level of 1739 m.
In the fraction of Tartsch lies the mystical hill of Tartsch with its Romanesque little church of St. Veit. The hill of Tartsch is a special place to which a tangible magic has always been attributed. This is why this place is also described as a place of power in the Upper Vinschgau.
The hill of Tartsch was inhabited in prehistoric times and in antiquity. For archaeologists, this hill is considered the prehistoric center of the valley. An approximately 1.3-acre, now sunken settlement, was located here. Besides Roman coins, cup-marked stone and iron axes, a 2500-year old stag antler with Rhaetian inscription and the remains of a Rhaetian house from the 3rd or 4th century BC were found. In the interior of the hill, an unfinished WWII bunker, built between 1939-1942, was found.
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