The valley of individuality: unusual cultural treasures, culinary rarities and King Ortler, South Tyrol’s highest mountain.
Geographically speaking, the Vinschgau valley starts out from Töll/Tel alongside Meran/Merano. Here the vibe is somewhat different to in the rest of South Tyrol. From here, you can find the highest mountains, the tastiest apricots, the only national park in the province and white marble which is exported from here across the world. A wide network of mountain biking trails extends out from here across the region.
Observe the wild streams and glaciers in the national park In search of the ancient Romans. Visit the medieval Glurns/Glorenza, one of the most beautiful towns in Italy. Walk along the water canals and through apple orchards and mixed woodland.
Soaring mountain peaks, majestic glaciers, a sustainable habitat and spectacular views from the Ortler Höhenweg.
Beneath vineyards and apple orchards, above the glacier and the Ortler. In Vinschgau/Val Venosta, you will sense some quirky contrasts and experience some rare cultural assets: the sunken tower in the Reschensee lake, the romantic mountain church, the mediaeval town of Glurns, the special wind phenomenon in the valley and the modern cube of the PUNI Whisky Distillery. Apricots and Palabirne pears thrive up to an altitude of 1,000m above sea level. The “Vinschger Paarl” and exclusive Lasa marble come from here. Celts, Rhaetians and Romans have all left their mark when passing through this area and you can follow in their footsteps by bike. The contemporary creative scene is building on old customs and agricultural traditions with its resourceful sophistication. Endurance athletes and downhill bikers will find the most extensive network of mountain biking trails across South Tyrol here. Along the hiking trails in the valley and on the mountain, you can explore the diverse landscape of Vinschgau along the original Waalweg canal trails, the peaceful tributary valleys and in the Stilfserjoch National Park. One side of the valley is green and fertile and the other is dry and steppe-like. A land of contrasts.
Along this part of the Etschtal Cycle Path, you can admire fortresses, castles and abbeys and explore numerous typical villages and social stop-offs for a refreshment break.
For phenomenal views into the distance, we have selected the most rewarding destinations for you in Vinschgau/Val Venosta: from legendary squares to child-friendly resorts and Alpine farms with wide-ranging views.
In Vinschgau, your taste buds will be treated to some regional treats . And your nose: like when the spiced fragrance of “Vinschger Ur-Paarl” rye bread floats across from the bakery. This oldest type of the traditional Vinschgau bread has been awarded the Presidio Slow Food quality seal and likewise the Vinschgau apricot, which thrives around Laas/Lasa and the traditional Palabirne pear from Obervinschgau/Alta Val Venosta. Vinschgau was formerly known as the granary of Tyrol but today apple orchards and vineyards shape the valley. In some places, they extend up to 1,000m above sea level – where only certain varieties of grape and apple thrive. Thanks to the mild climate, the Lower Vinschgau valley is home to asparagus and chestnuts alongside the Martelltal valley with its sweet berries. The speciality Stilfser Alpine cheese PDO has protected origins Local produce is available at the farmers’ markets and in the creative dishes served at restaurants. Treats for the taste buds are served at the Alpine inns and mountain huts where the plaque “Real Quality in the Mountains” represents authentic gourmet indulgence .
How about organically farmed crunchy apple? Delicious jams made from juicy strawberries or sweet apricots? Or a hand-made figure made from Lasa marble? In Vinschgau, as in the rest of South Tyrol, you will find a wide range of high-quality foods and hand-crafted everyday and art objects. Lots of producers sell straight from the farm where you can sample the treats and get to know the producers. In this way, you will experience moments of delicious flavour as well as gaining exciting insider knowledge about the cultivation and processing. With a bit of luck, you can even look over the shoulders of craftsmen at work as they create jewellery, sculptures or whisky while strolling through the village or town. Hand craftsmanship has a long-standing tradition in South Tyrol. High quality and durability are the primary factors, which are achieved through the use of proprietary manufacturing techniques and high-quality raw materials. This allows us to create products that are only available here.
What are the origins of the church bell tower?
Graun/Curon was demolished and flooded and its inhabitants moved out. That was 60 years ago now. Since then, people have been living with a lake on their doorstep which they regard as an alien body of water. The portrait of a village which has not yet completely overcome its curious past.
When weather could be ruining your day, don't slouch on the couch! We offer you plenty of options to still make the most of your day indoor and outdoor.
Enjoy our mountains, forests, meadows and towns at any time of the day and year. Our webcams connect you to special places all over South Tyrol in real time. You can glance at South Tyrol in bits, any time and any place you want and find out the current weather conditions with just a few clicks.
Are you keen to do your part for the environment and keep your carbon footprint as low as possible even on holiday? Then travel here using public transport - the bus and train will transport you here directly, with no detours.
Whether you use the cable cars to ascend from the valley to the mountain or take the train or bus to explore the area, your local transport is guaranteed.
If you are travelling to South Tyrol without a car, you can rest assured that you will be transported in comfort direct to your destination or accommodation by bus, train or cable car. All timetables are carefully coordinated so that there is always a connection from the train stations to the surrounding towns and villages.
The towns of Brixen/Bressanone and Klausen/Chiusa are accessible by train. From the train stations, buses or transfer services will take you to your accommodation in the town or surrounding villages.
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