The Active Life in South Tyrol Map inside with sights and attractions along South Tyrol’s valley bike routes
Activity One: Read How to use this booklet: 1. This booklet has been designed to show you how to best enjoy active outdoor holidays in South Tyrol. 2. Take your time and browse through the booklet – slowly without rushing. You’re more than welcome to go back to pages you’ve already read.
3. Next, use the recommended websites and books to find detailed information on your favourite activities from the booklet. 4. To help you enjoy your bike tours to the fullest, we have enclosed a map featuring interesting things to see and experience along South Tyrol’s valley cycle routes.
Activity Two: Travel
| Climbing: www.suedtirol.info/climbing
| Cycling: www.suedtirol.info/biking
| Hiking: www.suedtirol.info/trekking_en
| Riding: www.suedtirol.info/horseriding
| Winter: www.suedtirol.info/winter_en
| Swimming: www.suedtirol.info/swimming
January
February
March
| January | February | March > Biathlon World Cup in Anterselva/Antholz: www.biathlon-antholz.it > Moonlight Classic Cross-Country Marathon, Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm: www.moonlightclassic.info > Sella Ronda Ski Marathon: www.sellaronda.it > The Marmotta Trophy ski touring race, Martello/Martell: www.marmotta-trophy.it > Gardenissima Giant Slalom Race, Gardena/Gröden Valley: www.suedtirol.info/events
April
May
June
| April | May | June > Ötzi Alpine Marathon Triathlon, Naturno/Naturns: www.oetzi-alpin-marathon.com > International Triathlon at the Lake Caldaro/Kaltern: www.kalterersee-triathlon.com > Oswald von Wolkenstein riding competition, Castelrotto/Kastelruth: www.suedtirol.info/events > Sella Ronda Hero mountain bike race: www.sellarondahero.com > Sella Ronda Bike Day: www.suedtirol.info/events
July
August
September
| July | August | September > Südtirol Ultrarace – Extreme running race in the Sarentino Mountains: www.suedtirol-ultrarace.it > Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm Running: www.alpedisiusi.info > Maratona dles Dolomites bike marathon, Alta Badia: www.maratona.it > Dolomiti Superbike mountain bike race, Alta Pusteria/Hochpustertal: www.dolomitisuperbike.com > Passo Stelvio/Stilfser Joch Cycling Day: www.stelviopark.bz.it > Tre Cime/Drei Zinnen Alpine Run: www.corsatrecime.com
October
November
December
| October | November | December > International Mountain Summit (IMS) mountaineering forum, Bressanone/Brixen: www.ims.bz > Keschtnweg (Chestnut Trail) in Valle Isarco/Eisacktal: www.valleisarco.com > Ski World Cup in Val Gardena/Gröden: www.saslong.org > Ski World Cup in Alta Badia: www.skiworldcup.it > BOclassic International New Year’s Eve Run, Bolzano/Bozen: www.boclassic.it
January
February
March
| January | February | March > Biathlon World Cup in Anterselva/Antholz: www.biathlon-antholz.it > Moonlight Classic Cross-Country Marathon, Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm: www.moonlightclassic.info > Sella Ronda Ski Marathon: www.sellaronda.it > The Marmotta Trophy ski touring race, Martello/Martell: www.marmotta-trophy.it > Gardenissima Giant Slalom Race, Gardena/Gröden Valley: www.suedtirol.info/events
April
May
June
| April | May | June > Ötzi Alpine Marathon Triathlon, Naturno/Naturns: www.oetzi-alpin-marathon.com > International Triathlon at the Lake Caldaro/Kaltern: www.kalterersee-triathlon.com > Oswald von Wolkenstein riding competition, Castelrotto/Kastelruth: www.suedtirol.info/events > Sella Ronda Hero mountain bike race: www.sellarondahero.com > Sella Ronda Bike Day: www.suedtirol.info/events
July
August
September
| July | August | September > Südtirol Ultrarace – Extreme running race in the Sarentino Mountains: www.suedtirol-ultrarace.it > Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm Running: www.alpedisiusi.info > Maratona dles Dolomites bike marathon, Alta Badia: www.maratona.it > Dolomiti Superbike mountain bike race, Alta Pusteria/Hochpustertal: www.dolomitisuperbike.com > Passo Stelvio/Stilfser Joch Cycling Day: www.stelviopark.bz.it > Tre Cime/Drei Zinnen Alpine Run: www.corsatrecime.com
October
November
December
| October | November | December > International Mountain Summit (IMS) mountaineering forum, Bressanone/Brixen: www.ims.bz > Keschtnweg (Chestnut Trail) in Valle Isarco/Eisacktal: www.valleisarco.com > Ski World Cup in Val Gardena/Gröden: www.saslong.org > Ski World Cup in Alta Badia: www.skiworldcup.it > BOclassic International New Year’s Eve Run, Bolzano/Bozen: www.boclassic.it
January
February
March
| January | February | March > Biathlon World Cup in Anterselva/Antholz: www.biathlon-antholz.it > Moonlight Classic Cross-Country Marathon, Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm: www.moonlightclassic.info > Sella Ronda Ski Marathon: www.sellaronda.it > The Marmotta Trophy ski touring race, Martello/Martell: www.marmotta-trophy.it > Gardenissima Giant Slalom Race, Gardena/Gröden Valley: www.suedtirol.info/events
April
May
June
| April | May | June > Ötzi Alpine Marathon Triathlon, Naturno/Naturns: www.oetzi-alpin-marathon.com > International Triathlon at the Lake Caldaro/Kaltern: www.kalterersee-triathlon.com > Oswald von Wolkenstein riding competition, Castelrotto/Kastelruth: www.suedtirol.info/events > Sella Ronda Hero mountain bike race: www.sellarondahero.com > Sella Ronda Bike Day: www.suedtirol.info/events
July
August
September
| July | August | September > Südtirol Ultrarace – Extreme running race in the Sarentino Mountains: www.suedtirol-ultrarace.it > Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm Running: www.alpedisiusi.info > Maratona dles Dolomites bike marathon, Alta Badia: www.maratona.it > Dolomiti Superbike mountain bike race, Alta Pusteria/Hochpustertal: www.dolomitisuperbike.com > Passo Stelvio/Stilfser Joch Cycling Day: www.stelviopark.bz.it > Tre Cime/Drei Zinnen Alpine Run: www.corsatrecime.com
October
November
December
| October | November | December > International Mountain Summit (IMS) mountaineering forum, Bressanone/Brixen: www.ims.bz > Keschtnweg (Chestnut Trail) in Valle Isarco/Eisacktal: www.valleisarco.com > Ski World Cup in Val Gardena/Gröden: www.saslong.org > Ski World Cup in Alta Badia: www.skiworldcup.it > BOclassic International New Year’s Eve Run, Bolzano/Bozen: www.boclassic.it
January
February
March
| January | February | March > Biathlon World Cup in Anterselva/Antholz: www.biathlon-antholz.it > Moonlight Classic Cross-Country Marathon, Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm: www.moonlightclassic.info > Sella Ronda Ski Marathon: www.sellaronda.it > The Marmotta Trophy ski touring race, Martello/Martell: www.marmotta-trophy.it > Gardenissima Giant Slalom Race, Gardena/Gröden Valley: www.suedtirol.info/events
April
May
June
| April | May | June > Ötzi Alpine Marathon Triathlon, Naturno/Naturns: www.oetzi-alpin-marathon.com > International Triathlon at the Lake Caldaro/Kaltern: www.kalterersee-triathlon.com > Oswald von Wolkenstein riding competition, Castelrotto/Kastelruth: www.suedtirol.info/events > Sella Ronda Hero mountain bike race: www.sellarondahero.com > Sella Ronda Bike Day: www.suedtirol.info/events
July
August
September
| July | August | September > Südtirol Ultrarace – Extreme running race in the Sarentino Mountains: www.suedtirol-ultrarace.it > Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm Running: www.alpedisiusi.info > Maratona dles Dolomites bike marathon, Alta Badia: www.maratona.it > Dolomiti Superbike mountain bike race, Alta Pusteria/Hochpustertal: www.dolomitisuperbike.com > Passo Stelvio/Stilfser Joch Cycling Day: www.stelviopark.bz.it > Tre Cime/Drei Zinnen Alpine Run: www.corsatrecime.com
October
November
December
| October | November | December > International Mountain Summit (IMS) mountaineering forum, Bressanone/Brixen: www.ims.bz > Keschtnweg (Chestnut Trail) in Valle Isarco/Eisacktal: www.valleisarco.com > Ski World Cup in Val Gardena/Gröden: www.saslong.org > Ski World Cup in Alta Badia: www.skiworldcup.it > BOclassic International New Year’s Eve Run, Bolzano/Bozen: www.boclassic.it
Suggested Reading Mountain Huts in South Tyrol All of South Tyrol’s mountain refuges with detailed information and contact data, including descriptions of ascent and descent. Hans Kammerer Tappeiner
Walking in the Dolomites Walking in the Dolomites guides readers through breathtaking alpine scenery flanked by well-graded paths and excellent mountain refuges. Any one of these multi-day walks makes for a memorable holiday in the Dolomites. Gillian Price Cicerone
Freeride in Dolomiti: Marmolada, Arabba, Sassolungo, Sella, Alta Badia
Clear and simple symbols are used throughout this guide to 55 freeriding routes in the central Dolomites. Francesco Tremolada/English version by Alexandra Ercolani Collana
Via Ferratas of the Italian Dolomites Vol 1: North, Central and East A guide to 78 via ferrata climbing routes in the North, Central and Eastern Dolomites, including Catinaccio, Marmolada, Sella and Fanes. The guide outlines the routes, with advice regarding the best bases for each of the routes. John Smith, Graham Fletcher Cicerone
South Tyrol Italian Alps Guide to South Tyrol with insider tips on shopping, food, history and much more. Marco Polo
Landscapes of the Dolomites and eastern South Tyrol With gentle green valleys and towering limestone pinnacles, the Dolomites are a paradise for anyone who loves the countryside. This guide covers history, legends, traditional customs, food, art and architecture, transport and much more. Dietrich HĂśllhuber Sunflower Books
SĂźdtirol Alto Adige 3D
Shorter Walks in the Dolomites
Digital map of South Tyrol with numerous features at a scale of 1:10,000, easy printouts of tour areas, route distances, height profiles; search functions by town, chalet etc.
A fully updated second edition of a popular guide to short walks, suitable for summer and winter walking, in the Dolomite Mountains of northeastern Italy.
Kompass Digital Map
Gillian Price Cicerone
Eventful Days – Relaxing Nights Lodging
South Tyrol Bike Hotels
Comprehensive database of
The 35 members of this hotel group
lodging options in South Tyrol,
specialise in providing services that
including establishments that
answer the unique needs of cyclists:
accept online bookings:
www.bikehotels.it
www.suedtirol.info Campsites Hotels for an Active Holiday
Each of these 39 campsites has its
Hotels that specialise in active
own individual style and unique
and hiking holidays:
location within South Tyrol:
www.vitalpina.info
www.campingsouthtyrol.com
South Tyrol Budget
Farm Holidays
Good quality and convenient
Official portal for farm holidays
lodging options; maximum of
in South Tyrol: www.redrooster.it
15 rooms or apartments: www.southtyrolbudget.com
Youth Hostels These youth hostels are attractive
Cosy B&Bs and Apartments
and reasonably priced yet offer
The S端dtirol Privat group comprises
quality lodging in Bolzano/Bozen,
private hosts. These family-run esta-
Merano/Meran, Bressanone/Brixen,
blishments have a maximum of six
Dobbiaco/Toblach and Solorno/
rooms or four apartments:
Salurn:
www.kleinundfein.org
www.ostello.bz
bikemobil Card The new bikemobil Card provides the owner with unlimited access to South Tyrol’s integrated transport system: buses, local train services, certain cable cars and includes a single use of a rented bicycle. It can be purchased for a duration of three or seven days. During the card’s validity you can collect a bicycle to use on one day from one of the numerous rental points scattered all over the province, at stations and other places displaying a Südtirol Rad sign. The bikemobil Card gives you free access to: > regional and local trains from Brennero/Brenner as far as Trento and from Malles/Mals to San Candido/Innichen > bus services throughout the province (town, suburban and city buses) > the Renon/Ritten, Maranza/Meransen, San Genesio/Jenesien, Meltina/Mölten and Vöran/Verano cable cars > the narrow track Renon/Ritten railway and the Mendola/Mendel cable railway > a return trip between Malles/Mals and Zernez on a Swiss Postbus service
The bicycle can be returned to any of the rental points displaying the Südtirol Rad sign without incurring a supplemental charge, though the bicycle may not be taken onto the public transport services. bikemobil Card prices: 1 day: € 24 | 3 days: € 30 | 7 days: € 34 Children aged over 6 but under 14 pay half. Infants aged under 6 travel free on public transport. The bikemobil Card can be purchased at all places displaying the Integrated Transport sign (railway and bus stations), bicycle hire points and tourist information offices. www.mobilcard.info
New theme – bike routes around Bolzano and Environs
Wine & Bike – Exploring the Vineyards Three bike routes along the South Tyrolean Wine Road offer plenty of opportunities to stop off and visit wine cellars and castles. In addition, most wineries offer tastings of South Tyrol’s native grape varieties Lagrein, Vernatsch and Gewürztraminer alongside international white and red varietal wines such as Pinot Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Cabernet – all of which have been long established in the area. Three Native Grape Varieties: Each of the three bike routes encompasses at least one winegrowing area for one of South Tyrol’s three classic native grape varieties. The northern route leads through the historical Lagrein vineyards. Lagrein is South Tyrol’s premium full-bodied red wine, though it is also added in small quantities to Vernatsch wines such as St. Magdalener to add colour and body. The central route leads through the classic Vernatsch vineyard areas in the rolling hills to the south of Bolzano/Bozen and around Caldaro/Kaltern Lake which has given its name to the light red, fruity Kalterersee. The southern route, meanwhile, leads through the original cultivation area of Gewürztraminer: extremely aromatic, this internationally recognized wine derives its name from Tramin, the original German name for the village of Termeno. For more information, please visit: www.suedtiroler-weinstrasse.it
Suggestions for racing bikers > Long season lasting from March to November > Long, paved level distances in the main valleys between Glorenza/Glurns, Merano/ Meran and Bolzano/Bozen, Vipiteno/Sterzing, Bressanone/Brixen and Brunico/Bruneck > Follow the Giro d’Italia route from San Vigilio di Marebbe/St. Vigil in Enneberg and enjoy the dramatic approach to the summit of Plan de Corones/Kronplatz (7,431 ft/2,265 m) > The Stelvio/Stilfser Joch at 9,045 ft/2,757 m is the second highest pass in the Alps > Even easier passes such as the Mendola/ Mendel and the Passo delle Palade/ Gampen Pass are bound to release a surge of adrenaline just like professional athletes experience when they reach the finish line
for mountain bikers > Bizarre rock formations and historical military roads in the Dolomites > Flow trails with tricky sections in the Venosta/ Vinschgau Valley and the Merano and Environs Holiday Area, from March to November > Shady forest routes and paths through remote meadows in the Isarco/Eisacktal Valley > Hundreds of kilometres of forested roads and trails between the Lakes of Monticolo/Montiggl and Caldaro/Kaltern > Alpine huts in which cappuccinos and South Tyrolean culinary delights are served > Numerous cable cars that whisk cyclists up to starting points at over 3,300 ft/1,000 m
Salorno Salurn
Caldaro Kaltern
Bolzano Bozen
Merano Meran
Naturno Naturns
Glorenza Glurns
Bolzano Bozen
Chiusa Klausen
Bressanone Brixen
Fortezza Franzensfeste
1200
Vipiteno Sterzing
ft/m 1400
km
Brennero Brenner
ft/m 1600 1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200
Resia Reschenpas
Profiles of Valley Bike Routes
800 600 400
Rio di Pusteria MĂźhlbach
Chienes Kiens
Brunico Bruneck
Valdaora Olang
Monguelfo Welsberg
1200
Fortezza Franzensfeste
km
San Candido Innichen Dobbiaco Toblach
ft/m 1300 1100 1000 900 800 700
10
20
30
40
50
60
Distance: 148 km Ascent: 274 m Descent: 1,556 m
Brennero/Brenner – Bolzano/Bozen Bike Route
1000
200
Adige/Etsch Bike Route on the Via Claudia Augusta
km 70
Distance: 93 km Ascent: 227 m Descent: 1,310 m
Val Pusteria/ Pustertal Bike Route Distance: 69 km Ascent: 362 m Descent: 853 m
Sights and attractions along South Tyrol’s valley bike routes Cycling enthusiasts will find that an extensive and well-signposted network of bike paths runs through South Tyrol’s valleys. The Via Claudia Augusta route extends from the Resia/Reschen Pass along the Adige Valley to Bolzano and beyond. The route leading through the Isarco/Eisacktal Valley, meanwhile, begins at the Brenner Pass. The route running through the Pusteria/Pustertal Valley crosses the border and continues into East Tyrol in Austria. These routes lead through woods and orchards, across meadows, passing mountain lakes and mountain peaks and offering spectacular scenery along the way. There are plenty of places to stop for a breather: castles, museums and excellent eateries specialising in local cuisine. Dedicated bike paths also lead into side valleys: the Passiria/Passeiertal and Casies/Gsies valleys are two good examples. We have marked routes such as these on the panoramic map as well. Our detachable map features a series of interesting sights and attractions found along South Tyrol’s main biking routes.
PHOTOGRAPHY: South Tyrol Marketing Group/Alessandro Trovati, Alex Filz, Clemens Zahn, Daniel Geiger, Frieder Blickle, Helmuth Rier, Laurin Moser, Stefano Scatà: Plan de Corones/Kronplatz Tourist Bureau/Laurin Moser; The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle/Marion Gelmini; Oswald von Wolkenstein Ride/Magdalena Strakova CONCEPT & DESIGN: inQuadro | TRANSLATION: Cassandra Han Viti | PRINTING: Karo Druck
Sights and attractions along South Tyrol’s valley bike routes
7 8
12 10
14 13 11 21
Bike Routes Adige/Etsch Bike Route on the Via Claudia Augusta
Brennero/Brenner – Bolzano/Bozen Bike Route
Val Pusteria/Pustertal Bike Route
16 15 24
5 17
6 9 20 19
Town/Village Monastery/Church
Castle/Fortress/Manor
Main route
Secondary route
Museum Garden
Food/Wine Water
3 2 1
4 23 25
18 22
26
27
1/4/12 2:32 PM
The inner courtyard of what was once the palace of the prince-bishops is one of the most atmospheric in all of South Tyrol. Noteworthy features include Renaissance loggias, Baroque facades, and the old castle gateway, Baroque marble portals and the towers of the palace church. The palace is home to the Diocesan Museum, the cathedral treasures, and a collection of Nativity cribs. 500 m, turn off at Adlerbrück Bridge in the old town of Bressanone/Brixen Museum and Nativity crib collection: 15 March to 31 October Tuesdays – Sundays from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. From 30 November to 6 January, daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed on 24 and 25 December
Angela Steiner | phone: +39 339 26 43 752 More info: Sterzing Tourist Association | www.vipiteno.com
Piazza Palazzo Vescovile, 2, 39042 Bressanone/Brixen | phone: +39 0472 830 505 brixen@dioezesanmuseum.bz.it | www.hofburg.it More info: Brixen Tourist Association | www.brixen.org
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Oppidum Association | Piazza Municipio, 2, 39045 Fortezza/Franzensfeste phone: +39 393 93 48 503 (Mon. – Fri., from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.) info@franzensfeste-fortezza.it | www.franzensfeste-fortezza.it More info: Brixen Tourist Association | www.brixen.org
Mondays through Saturdays from 7:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Martin Pircher Despar Market – Tubris, Via Hugo von Taufers, 7, 39032 Campo Tures/Sand in Taufers | phone: +39 0474 678 495 More info: Tauferer Ahrntal Tourist Bureau | www.tures-aurina.com
26
Italy’s First Kneipp for Me Village One of the finest Kneipp courses in the whole Alpine region can be found in Villabassa/Niederdorf, a town in the Alta Pusteria/Hochpustertal Valley. The course comprises a large park, pond, various Kneipp routes, and an adventure playground for children. There are Kneipp courses held here in the summertime.
21
Chiusa Graced with battlemented facades, broad bay windows, traditional-style inn signs, medieval walls, and the typical atmosphere of a small town in South Tyrol, Chiusa/Klausen is one of Italy’s most beautiful villages (I borghi più belli d’Italia). Noteworthy sights include the Municipal Museum, the former Capuchin monastery, and the celebrated Loreto Treasure. Directly through the main street of Chiusa | Municipal Museum 300 m Municipal Museum: 31 March to 3 November Tuesdays – Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Closed Sundays, Mondays, 25 April, 1 May, 2 June, 15 August, 1 November Chiusa Municipal Museum | Fraghes, 1, 39043 Chiusa/Klausen phone: +39 0472 846 148 | museum@klausen-bz.it More info: Klausen Tourist Association | www.klausen.it
0.5 km See calendar of events for Kneipp courses Villabassa Tourist Association | Via Stazione, 3, 39039 Villabassa/Niederdorf phone: +39 0474 745 136 | info@villabassa.it | www.villabassa.it
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The 3 Zinnen Dairy Ever wondered how cheese is made? This dairy in Dobbiaco/Toblach will allow you to experience firsthand how fresh milk is processed into a variety of different dairy products. You can opt to explore on your own or let an expert guide you: either way, you’ll find out many intriguing facts about the history of milk processing right up to the present day. If you like, you can taste products made fresh at the dairy after your tour. 0.2 km Tuesdays through Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Open daily from 15 July to 15 September and during the winter holiday season Via Pusteria, 3c, 39034 Dobbiaco/Toblach phone: +39 0474 971 300 | info@mondolattetrecime.com | www.3cime.it More info: Dobbiaco Tourist Association | www.dobbiaco.info
Sights and attractions along South Tyrol’s valley bike routes
Information
20
Prince Bishop’s Palace (Hofburg): Diocesan Museum
Tuesdays through Sundays from the beginning of May until the end of October, from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Closed Mondays Historical garden tours from the beginning of May until the end of June
Directly beside the bike path, which runs into the village centre
The Active Life in South Tyrol
Opening hours
Brixen Tourist Association | Via Ratisbona, 9, 39042 Bressanone/Brixen phone: +39 0472 836 401 | info@brixen.org | www.brixen.org
Südtirol Information Piazza della Parrocchia, 11 I-39100 Bolzano/Bozen phone: +39 0471 999 999 info@suedtirol.info
Garden
Cathedral: From Easter to the beginning of November and in December, daily from 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Closed from 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. in November, January, February, and March (until Easter). Guided tours of the cathedral and cloister available from Easter to the beginning of November: Mondays – Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
www.suedtirol.info
Museum
Distance from the bike route
Südtirol Map – Standard
Castle/Fortress/Manor
Water
5 Salzburg 4
Food/Wine
www.suedtirol.info/gettingthere
Monastery/Church
Route follows the Isarco/Eisack River and leads through the old town Cathedral: 300 m after turning at Adlerbrücke Bridge in the old town of Bressanone
Reifenstein Castle
1.5 km | directly above the fortress. In order to reach the fortress, follow the Val Pusteria/Pustertal Bike Route to the south of the village of Fortezza/Franzensfeste
Getting There
Town/Village
Via Dante, 6, 39100 Bolzano/Bozen | phone: + 39 0471 223 413 info@museion.it | www.museion.it
Bressanone, known as Brixen in German, is a culture-rich city characterized by a very southern feel and Mediterranean climate. It manages to retain its grandeur without sacrificing a youthful and dynamic atmosphere. Its historical portici arcades hold great appeal for holidaymakers: wine bars, cafes and restaurants line up alongside modern shops. Bressanone Cathedral, which was built in 980, features twin façade towers: its magnificent interior is graced with 250 m² of ceiling frescoes and furnishings adorned with 33 different types of marble. The adjacent cloister is known for its late Gothic frescoes.
Reifenstein Castle sits atop a mound of rock in a flat area of land called Sterzinger Moos, located southwest of Sterzing. Noteworthy features of this castle, which is one of South Tyrol’s best preserved, include its pointed arch gate, portcullis, battlements, embrasures and historical bridge.
Franzensfeste Fortress
Graukäse Cheese from the Aurina Valley Ahrntal Graukäse (Grau = grey; Käse = cheese) has garnered top awards from the Slow Food movement. You can purchase it at the Pircher Despar store, along with products from some fifty of South Tyrol’s farmers and artisans. There is also a farmers’ market held here every Thursday afternoon.
Bressanone
16
This unassailable fortress named after Emperor Franz I of Austria was built between 1833 and 1838. Known today in Italian as Forte di Fortezza, it is a giant labyrinth of rooms, casements, corridors and staircases. Although this logistical masterwork was the most impregnable in all Europe in its day, the fortress never saw real battle.
a
Juval, 3, 39020 Castelbello/Kastelbell | phone: +39 348 44 33 871 or +39 0471 631 264 info@messner-mountain-museum.it | www.messner-mountain-museum.it More info: Castelbello-Ciardes Tourist Association | www.castelbello-ciardes.com
Directly along the bike route Tuesdays through Sundays from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Last entry (ground floor) 10 minutes prior to closing Last entry (upper floor) 30 minutes prior to closing Closed Mondays. Admission is free on Thursdays between 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.
25
19
Council Chamber: Mondays through Thursdays from 8:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Fridays from 8:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Closed on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays
All visitors must tour with a guide: minimum 4 persons, duration is one hour From 1 April to 31 October: daily tours, except Saturdays, at 10:30 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. Additional 4:00 p.m. tour offered from 15 July to 15 September
2 Rosenheim
Guided tours: end of March to the end of June and beginning of September to the beginning of November from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Closed on Wednesdays
Via Abbazia, 1, 39040 Varna/Vahrn | phone: +39 0472 836 189 info@kloster-neustift.it | www.kloster-neustift.it More info: Brixen Tourist Association | www.brixen.org
Directly through Sterzing’s old and new districts
0.5 km
5 München 4
1 km to shuttle service or 3.5 km to the castle
All visitors must tour with a guide (min. 10 persons) Mondays – Saturdays at 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m. Closed Sundays and public holidays. Even with low number of participants, the tours at 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. take place. Additional tours at noon and 1 p.m. from mid-June to mid-September
This museum for modern and contemporary art in Bolzano/Bozen not only exhibits internationally celebrated artists but also serves as a platform for the local art scene. The structural form of the Museion is an oblong cube with glazed facades, upon which images of works specially conceived for the purpose are projected in the evening.
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Hugo von Montalban built Juval Castle atop a prehistoric settlement in 1278. Reinhold Messner, an internationally celebrated mountaineer, has called the castle home since 1983. Today, Juval is one of five museums that comprise his MMM project: here, you’ll find several art collections, a comprehensive exhibit about Tibet, a picture gallery devoted to the theme of mountains, and masks from four continents.
Summer: Mondays through Fridays from 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Winter: last Sunday in October to the last Sunday in March; Mondays through Fridays from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
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MMM Juval
1 km, turning at Griesserhof Farm
Sterzing, known in Italian as Vipiteno, offers a medieval atmosphere with all the trappings of modern life. This former mining town’s old and new districts, separated by the striking Zwölferturm Tower, are both well suited to strolling, shopping and stopping off for a cocktail or meal at one of the traditional taverns. A must-see for any visitor is the Gothic Council Chamber at City Hall: it boasts a distinctive corner bay window, wood-panelled walls, and a beamed ceiling that is widely regarded as the finest in Tyrol. The Mithras Stone and Roman milestone, both located in the inner courtyard, are also noteworthy.
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Sterzing Tourist Association | Via Piazza Città, 3, 39049 Vipiteno/Sterzing phone: +39 0472 765 325 | info@infovipiteno.com | www.vipiteno.com
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Castel Coira, 1, 39020 Sluderno/Schluderns | phone: +39 0473 615 241 info@castelcoira.com | www.castelcoira.com More info: Upper Venosta Valley Tourist Association | www.altavenosta-vacanze.it
Helene Brusa, Cantuccio, 2, 39032 Caminata/Kematen | phone: +39 0474 679 581 More info: Tauferer Ahrntal Tourist Bureau | www.tures-aurina.com
This monastery complex, the largest in all of Tyrol, is one of the most remarkable attractions in the Isarco/Eisack Valley. Particularly noteworthy features of Abbazia di Novacella, known as Augustiner Chorherrenstift Neustift in German, include its round Engelsburg Tower, basilica in the late Baroque style, Well of Wonders, library filled with rare manuscripts, and historical art gallery. As if that isn’t enough, the abbey’s winery is internationally known for its premium estate-grown white wines.
Sterzing
Piazza Terme, 9, 39012 Merano/Meran | phone: +39 0473 252 000 info@thermemeran.it | www.thermemeran.it More info: Merano and Environs Tourist Bureau | www.merano.eu
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Guided tours from the end of March to the end of October Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 a.m. – noon, 2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
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Open year round Indoor pools: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. (pools close at 9:40 p.m.); outdoor pools from 15 May to 15 September from 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (pools close at 7:40 p.m.); saunas open Mondays – Fridays from 1:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. and Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays and the winter holiday season from 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. (Thursdays: ladies only from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.)
Monday through Friday: 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Saturday: 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Architecture devotees and wine enthusiasts will be equally delighted by this winery, designed by Werner Tscholl, at the entrance to the village of Termeno. Gewürztraminer, the internationally known white wine, derives its name from the German name of the village: Tramin. – the German name of which lent its name to the celebrated Gewürtztraminer grape variety. Tramin Winery is well equipped to cater to hedonistic cyclists: there’s ample bike parking, plenty of water to quench thirst, and fine wines with which to relax.
In exploration of enchanting towns and historical gems 15
2 km
Originally built in the thirteenth century, Churburg Castle was converted by the Counts of Trapp into one of South Tyrol’s finest residences in the sixteenth century. Churburg is widely regarded as one of Tyrol’s best-preserved castle complexes. The castle houses the world’s largest private armoury collection; the groin vault of its Chapel of St. Nicholas is also particularly noteworthy.
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Located just a stone’s throw from Merano’s portici arcades and elegant art nouveau promenade, the Terme Merano pool and spa complex combines modern design with natural wellbeing. There is something for everyone at this relaxing world of water, which boasts 25 indoor and outdoor pools, eight different saunas, and natural South Tyrolean health products. The Terme Merano is housed inside a glass cube, affording spectacular views of the surrounding mountain peaks.
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Merano Thermal Baths
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Abbey of the Augustinian Canons Regular
Strada del Vino, 144, 39040 Termeno/Tramin | phone: +39 0471 096 633 info@cantinatramin.it | www.cantinatramin.it More info: Bolzano and Environs Tourist Bureau | www.stradadelvino.info
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Directly beside the cycle path City tours every Tuesday from April to October Guided tours with visits to mills, every Friday from July to September Glorenza Tourist Association | Via Flora, 31, 39020 Glorenza/Glurns phone: +39 0473 831 097 | glurns@rolmail.net | www.altavenosta-vacanze.it
In the village of Caminata/Kematen, Helene Brusa has revived the old sheepshearing techniques and works wool into loden, yarn and clothing. Museum visitors can watch her as she works and, of course, purchase her products.
Tramin Winery
Brennero/Brenner – Bolzano/Bozen Bike Route
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Via San Valentino, 51a, 39012 Merano/Meran | phone: +39 0473 235 730 info@trauttmansdorff.it | www.trauttmansdorff.it More info: Merano and Environs Tourist Bureau | www.merano.eu
2 Udine
Glorenza/Glurns is the smallest place in the Alps that is officially recognised as a city. It has 890 inhabitants, is encircled by a completely intact defensive wall graced by imposing towers, and boasts three pubs. Entering through one of the town gates is like being transported back to the Middle Ages. The prosperity of the small border city, which was first documented in historical records in 1304, was due to the salt trade. Glorenza’s hidden nooks and crannies, narrow alleyways, and genuine Old World feel make it a real gem.
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29 March – 31 October: 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. (last entry 6:00 p.m.) 1 November – 15 November: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (last entry 4:00 p.m.) Fridays in June, July and August: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. (last entry 10:00 p.m.) Open daily
Glorenza
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2 km
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Sliniga, 1, 39024 Malles/Mals | phone: +39 0473 843 980 info@marienberg.it | www.marienberg.it More info: Upper Venosta Valley Tourist Association | www.altavenosta-vacanze.it
2 Vipiteno/Sterzing
The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle: Merano/Meran at its lushest. These botanical gardens are a showcase for typical South Tyrolean landscapes and for plants from every corner of the globe. Pathways wind up the hillsides, leading through terraces and water gardens. Trauttmansdorff Castle stands regally at the centre of the gardens. Empress Elisabeth of Austria brought renown to the castle when she spent two winters there. Today, the castle houses the Touriseum: this museum documents two hundred years of tourism in Tyrol in a very engaging way.
Mid-March to the end of October, Mondays through Saturdays From 27 December to 5 January, Mondays through Saturdays The crypt is open to the public only during Vespers, from Mid-May to the end of October
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The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle
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Via Palade, 1, 39010 Cermes/Tscherms | phone: +39 0473 564 549 info@kraenzel.com | www.labyrinth.bz More info: Lana Tourist Association | www.lana.info
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23 March – 4 November daily, 9:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
1.7 km
Sheep’s Wool Museum
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3 km
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Kaltern Tourist Association | Piazza Principale, 8, 39052 Caldaro/Kaltern phone: +39 0471 963 169 | info@caldaro.info | www.caldaro.info
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The Kränzel Estate interweaves the themes of mazes, gardens, wine, and art all into one experience that is as intriguing as it is unique.
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Marienberg Abbey The Lords of Tarasp were the original twelfth-century donors for Marienberg Abbey, which overlooks Burgusio/Burgeis. Marienberg’s elevation at 1,340 metres makes it Europe’s highest Benedictine abbey. Monks have lived here in accordance with the Rule of St. Benedict for more than 800 years. Former work quarters have been transformed into exhibition spaces that give a glimpse into everyday life at the monastery, which always followed the principle of ora et lavora (pray and work). The exhibition also encompasses historical events and the symbolism of the Romanesque frescoes that adorn the crypt and feature unique representations of angels.
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1.8 km May to September, 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
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The outdoor swimming pool complex known as the Lido is situated just beside the warmest bathing lake in the Alps: Lago di Caldaro, known as the Kalterer See in German. A striking architectural form and sculptural elements that jut up into the air make the pool noteworthy – and easy to spot. The Lido offers a pleasant combination: the convenience of a swimming pool and all the advantages of a natural bathing lake.
Kränzel Labyrinth Garden
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From Easter Monday to the end of October. Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sundays and public holidays from 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Closed on Mondays. July and August: from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. August: open also on Mondays Via Duca Diet, 24, 39031 Brunico/Bruneck | phone: +39 0474 552 087 museo-etnografico@museiprovinciali.it | www.museo-etnografico.it More info: Bruneck Kronplatz Tourist Association | www.bruneck.com
Lido Pool at Lake Caldaro
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Passo Resia Tourist Association | Strada Statale, 61, 39027 Curon/Graun phone: +39 0473 634 603 | info@passoresia.it | www.passoresia.it
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Can be viewed all year round Local museum in Curon open July–September Admission: voluntary contribution
1.3 km
Via Castel Firmiano, 53, 39100 Bolzano/Bozen | phone: +39 0471 631 264 info@messner-mountain-museum.it | www.messner-mountain-museum.it More info: Bolzano and Environs Tourist Bureau | www.stradadelvino.info
Via San Procolo, 39025 Naturno/Naturns phone: +39 0473 667 312 or +39 348 92 03 829 prokuluskirche@gmx.net | www.procolo.org More info: Naturno Tourist Association | www.naturns.it
Directly along the bike route
This museum near Brunico/Bruneck allows visitors to plunge into rural life in South Tyrol’s valleys as it once was. This world is brought to life in a very evocative manner – old farmhouses, granaries, cowsheds, stables, innumerable tools and instruments – helping even the youngest of visitors imagine how people once worked and lived with only the very simplest of means.
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Two weeks before Easter until the beginning of November Tuesdays through Sundays 9:30 a.m. – noon and 2:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Closed Mondays; open on public holidays
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The sunken church steeple of Curon/Graun, which protrudes out of Resia/Reschen Lake, is the most photographed spot in the Venosta/Vinschgau Valley. In 1950, the village and a part of Resia were sacrificed in order to create the reservoir lake.
Museum of Folk Traditions in Teodone
First Sunday in March to the third Sunday in November, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Last entry at 5:00 p.m. Closed on Thursdays
This little church, one of South Tyrol’s oldest early-Christian churches, boasts rare frescoes dating from the early Middle Ages. The adjacent museum affords a glimpse into the local way of life from late antiquity to the early Middle Ages, in the Gothic period, and in times of plague.
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Via Pusteria, 40, 39037 Rio di Pusteria/Mühlbach | phone: +39 0472 849 632 info@santerhof.eu | www.santerhof.eu More info: Gitschberg Jochtal Tourist Association | www.gitschberg-jochtal.com
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0.6 km
Church of St. Proculus
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Guided visits available by prior arrangement
MMM Firmian, which is the centrepiece of the Messner Mountain Museum project and is housed in Sigmundskron Castle near Bolzano/Bozen, examines the relationship between man and mountain. The route of the museum is spread throughout the extensive castle grounds: pathways, stairs, and towers lead the visitor deep into the mountain. The exhibition sheds light on the origin of the mountain and the various ways it has been exploited by man. Exhibits cover the importance of the summit as a landmark and bridge to the hereafter, the history of mountaineering, and modern-day Alpine tourism.
Tower in the Lake, Curon
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Directly beside the bike path
MMM Firmian
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Santerhof Winery Italy’s northernmost wine specialises in the cultivation of organic products – especially wine, juices and fruit. The Gasser family has revived the Rio di Pusteria/ Mühlbach winegrowing tradition, which had seemingly been consigned to oblivion. Now they press grapes and make wine in the estate’s own cellars.
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Daily except Saturday afternoons and Sundays Bolzano and Environs Tourist Bureau | Piazza Walther, 8, 39100 Bolzano/Bozen phone: +39 0471 307 000 | info@bolzano-bozen.it | www.bolzano-bozen.it
Cultural experiences ranging from gardens to architecture
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Cycling through pristine nature and a bucolic landscape
0.5 km
Adige/Etsch Bike Route on the Via Claudia Augusta
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The explosion of colours at Bolzano/Bozen’s fruit and vegetable market delighted the German poet Goethe. Even today, the market’s fruit, vegetables and flowers still attract locals and tourists alike – and in droves. The market, which runs from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., is also a wonderful place to pick up some of South Tyrol’s most popular products: Speck ham, cheeses, salami and fresh local bread are among the favourites. The market is closed on Sundays and public holidays.
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Val Pusteria/Pustertal Bike Route
Fruit & Vegetable Market
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S端dtirol Information Piazza della Parrocchia, 11 I-39100 Bolzano/Bozen phone: +39 0471 999 999 info@suedtirol.info www.suedtirol.info