Bolzano and the vineyards belong together: grapes have thrived in the Bolzano/Bozen valley basin since primeval times thanks to the optimal conditions for producing this exquisite wine. On the gravel soils of the Eisack, Etsch and Talfer rivers, which meet in the capital, the indigenous velvety Lagrein thrives particularly well. And on the sunny slopes of St. Magdalena, Justina and Leitach, the delicately fruity St. Magdalener flourishes. The saying “Venice swims on water, Bolzano swims on wine” may seem strange at first. However Bolzano is more than just one of South Tyrol’s largest winegrowing communities and part of the Alto Adige Wine Road; it is also one of Europe’s biggest wine-producing towns. Each March, South Tyrol’s wine scene gather at the Schloss Maretsch castle for the Bolzano Wine Tasting. Bolzano’s wine culture can be experienced at the many wineries and vineyards and the newly designed Cantina Bolzano winery is a must for architecture fans.

The Alto Adige Wine Road runs across a gently rolling hilly landscape and through 16 villages past vineyards, fortresses, historic residences and the provincial capital of Bolzano/Bozen. Vineyards have long dominated in the area between Nals/Nalles through to Salorno/Salurn: even 2,500 years ago, the Rhaetians were growing grapes here. In the Mediterranean climate, numerous international grape varieties thrive and are processed to make wines of global standing. The indigenous varieties of Vernatsch and Lagrein and the local Gewürztraminer are particularly at home here. The mild temperatures start in March - and the warm season extends until late autumn. So you have plenty of time to explore the surroundings in more details along the hiking trails or by bike. If it gets too hot for you in summer, you can cool down by jumping into the Kalterer See lake or the Montiggler Seen lakes. This includes a refreshing aperitif with tasty nibbles. You don’t have to look far to find an opportunity to do this because enjoyment is part of life’s goal - whether at ease in the village square, in style in the wine cellar or relaxed by the lake.