Captivating visitors with its pristine nature, the Dolomite valley Funes/Villnöss is one of the most inconspicuous valleys in South Tyrol. Relaxation here is guaranteed and yet boredom is equally unlikely! After all, the Odle mountains provide countless opportunities for outdoor adventure such as Nordic walking trails, via ferratas, trekking, ski slopes, and sledging and cross-country skiing trails. There’s something for everyone!
At around 24 km in length, the Val di Funes valley is located to the north of Chiusa/Klausen and extends to the Odle mountain range. The “pale mountains” belong to the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites and turn rosy or coppery red depending on the time of day and those who’ve witnessed this natural spectacle will never forget it. Inhabited by a mere 2,500 people, the valley has many well-known attractions, such as the small church of Santa Maddalena/St. Magdalena. It’s also the home of extreme mountaineering legend Reinhold Messner, who is now a celebrated citizen of honour in Funes/Villnöss.Countless hiking trails in the Odle range entice nature lovers to get outdoors and explore. But you don’t have to summit every peak to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views! Such landscapes can also be enjoyed from vantage points on easy hikes to Alpine farms. There’s something for everyone here: From easy walks in the valley to adventurous family-oriented hikes and even challenging climbing or summit tours for mountaineering fans. Not to mention the many cycling tours as well!
Holidays in Funes/Villnöss are sure to put a sparkle in the eyes of every child. Customs, such as bread baking, help to impart awareness for tradition. For junior discoverers, the crystal world at the mineral museum is ideal. Meanwhile, the Dolomiti Ranger programme at the Puez-Odle Nature Park is perfect for outdoor loving kids who want to sharpen their senses. Adventurous kids can try out climbing in forests and meadows in the footsteps of Reinhold Messner.
The peaks of the Odle mountains, which belong to the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites, are amongst the most spectacular in all the Alps. More information is available from the central information point at the Puez-Odle Nature Park in Santa Maddalena/St. Magdalena. To witness precious treasures, head on over to the crystal world at the mineral museum in Tiso/Teis. Alternatively, for a change of pace, stroll through the valley past countless small churches and chapels with their wonderful frescos and carved winged alters.
Visitors to Funes/Villnöss will enjoy the variety of traditional and modern dishes sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. From Speck smoked ham and Alpine cheeses to meat from Tyrolean grey cattle, the many restaurants in the mountains and valley serve a range of tasty dishes. Don’t miss the true highlight: Lamb sourced from renowned Villnöss sheep, a variety with a festival dedicated to its honor.
The winter landscape in Funes/Villnöss is unique. Enchanting mountain villages and snowshoe hikes await visitors here and sport lovers will enjoy the ski mountaineering or natural sledging trails available. For beginning skiers, the “Filler” ski area is ideal, whilst those looking for a kick of adrenaline should head to the freestyle park. Looking for a quieter escape? The optimally groomed cross-country skiing trails at the Zanser Alpine farm won’t disappoint.