Sights and events in South Tyrol

The Ladin Ciastel de Tor in San Martino in Badia, one of South Tyrol’s provincial museums, offers an abundance of thoughtfully presented regional history. In the historic site of Badia/Thurn Castle, everything revolves around the history of the Ladin people. Visitors are introduced to the interplay between the five valleys and the way of life and language of the approximately 30,000 Ladin people. In the Ursus ladinicus museum in San Cassiano, you can track down the prehistoric cave bear of the same name. The museum presents the 40,000-year-old cave bear using previous discoveries and state-of-the-art technology.

Ladin, also commonly called Rhaeto-Romanic, is only spoken in a small area. The Ladin Cultural Institute in San Martino in Badia is committed to preserving and promoting the Ladin language and culture, and also organises and promotes initiatives that share this goal. The institute publishes books in Ladin as well as books in other languages that focus on Ladinia and its culture. The institute’s own library is open all year round, and exhibitions by local artists are held in the summer.

In the visitor centre of the Fanes-Sennes-Braies/Prags Nature Park in San Vigilio di Marebbe, you’ll discover fascinating insights into the nature park in interactive displays. Discover how the Dolomites were formed and learn more about the topography of the landscape with its alpine villages and species-rich mountain meadows. The particular pride of the Nature Park House is the exhibition on the cave bear discovered in the Conturines cave in 1987. There’s also a play and crafting corner for younger visitors.

Nestled at the foot of Mt Plan de Corones/Kronplatz is the Cron4 water and sauna experience. Children will delight in the diverse array of pools, including a thrilling 75-metre-long waterslide, while the littlest ones can splash and giggle in the dedicated baby pool. For adults, a 3,000m² sauna landscape awaits, offering a haven of tranquillity and relaxation. Unwind in the salt-water pool and various relaxation rooms, invigorate your senses with refreshing Kneipp treatments, and indulge in expertly guided sauna infusions. It’s an unforgettable escape for body and soul – guaranteed. 

In the heart of Val Pusteria/Pustertal, in the village of Dietenheim, the South Tyrolean Folklore Museum presents the area’s rich history. Spread across a 3-hectare expanse, the museum’s centrepiece is the Baroque Mair am Hof manor, which houses captivating exhibits showcasing the region’s culture and the splendour of its past. Outside, you’ll discover over 20 meticulously reconstructed historical buildings relocated from various corners of South Tyrol. The museum’s unique approach delves into the social history of South Tyrol, comparing the ways of life of different communities to paint an in-depth picture of life in this Alpine haven.

Taufers Castle in Valle Aurina/Ahrntal was built at the beginning of the 13th century and was an important dynastic castle in the Middle Ages. Today, Taufers Castle is one of Tyrol’s most captivating castles, welcoming visitors to embark on a journey through time. Admire the frescoes by Friedrich Pacher in the castle chapel or stroll through the collection of art and furnishings from the 12th to 17th centuries.

A trip to the exhibition mine by the Rio Rosso/Rötbach river is sure to delight: Where copper ore was mined for 500 years, you can now take an adventurous trip into the mountain. On a tour you’ll also learn how it was to work underground. On the educational trail along the “Knappensteig” miners’ path, you’ll not only learn interesting facts, but also hike to a height of 2,100m above sea level, with the bonus of a stunning panorama. The climate gallery also offers optimal conditions for people with respiratory ailments. In this place of peace, you can breathe deeply and find inner balance.

As the centre of Val Pusteria/Pustertal, Bruneck offers an endless array of attractions. Voted the most liveable small town in Italy in 2009, the lively main street, Via Centrale, is lined with boutiques and cafés. Bruneck Castle and the Rain Church are perched on a hill above the town and invite you to take a look. Bruneck Castle is also home to the Messner Mountain Museum (MMM) Ripa, which is dedicated to the mountain folk of the world. On the summit of Mt Plan de Corones/Kronplatz, you can also enjoy a fantastic panoramic view and an exhibition on traditional mountaineering in the MMM Corones.

With over 1,000 years of history, Brixen is not only the oldest city in South Tyrol, but it also offers an extraordinary mix of religious heritage and modern vibrancy. The city’s most famous landmark is the cathedral, which is renowned for the intricate Gothic frescoes adorning its cloister. Wander through the enchanting medieval old town, where cobblestone streets invite you to discover historical gems and savour culinary delights. Venture beyond the city walls to Neustift Abbey – its cloister, library, and surrounding vineyards are sure to impress.

Step into the heart of South Tyrol’s capital, Bolzano, where a romantic and charming old town awaits, brimming with enticing shopping and dining experiences. Marvel at the city’s cathedral, the world’s first Gothic hall church, and admire its exquisite high portal. Step back in time at the Archaeology Museum, where the world-famous Ötzi, the Iceman, lies in eternal slumber, and uncover the rich prehistory of South Tyrol.

Soar through the treetops at KronAction at Lake Issengo/Issinger Weiher, South Tyrol’s largest high ropes course, with 14 thrilling courses and over 140 challenges. Safety is a top priority here: You’re permanently secured with a waist harness, helmet, and via ferrata set. The KronAction adventure park also offers other attractions such as a freefall experience from a height of 13m, a 20m-high climbing tree, and an adventure labyrinth.

The enchanting Woody Walk is the first section of the Dolomites panoramic trail on Mt Plose. This is a delightful family-friendly and stroller-friendly trail, specially designed for little ones. Along the way, discover playful stations that encourage exploration and relaxation, all while soaking in the breathtaking mountain scenery. Make a test call on the forest telephone or challenge your balance on the don’t-touch-the-ground path. Also awaiting you is a Viking ship, Kneipp water walks, and giant loungers.

During your holiday in the Dolomites, immerse yourself in the world of Ladin legends. Along this 3km themed path, “The Wonderful World: The Fanes Legends”, learn the captivating tale of the beautiful Princess Dolasilla as she bravely battles the evil sorcerer Spina de Mul. Discover fascinating insights into the Ladin people’s rural way of life and encounter the most famous local legends through informative panels along the trail. Don’t miss the exquisite wooden carvings that serve as your guides.

Enjoy an unforgettable avian adventure at the Owl Park San Vigilio, where you can have an up-close experience with many different species of owls and other birds of prey. Nestled at the foot of the Fanes-Sennes-Braies/Prags Nature Park, falconer Mario lovingly cares for over 40 majestic owl and raptor species from around the globe, including several that are rare and endangered. At the Owl Park San Vigilio, Mario shares with you the knowledge he has acquired over many years about the life of birds of prey, their characteristics, and habits. Through interactive experiences and captivating presentations, the aim is to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for these remarkable creatures, promoting conservation and respect for the diverse animal kingdom.

The name says it all: Val dl’Ert means “artists’ valley” in Ladin and is a not-to-be-missed permanent art exhibition in the great outdoors. On the easy and relaxed 1.6km-long themed trail, you can admire the sculptures from the last editions of the SMACH artist competition. Embark on this journey by following the trail that begins approximately 200m above the Museum Ladin Ciastel de Tor. Walk into the forest on the right and you’ll be immersed in the heart of the captivating Artists’ Valley.

Every year in December, four races of the Men’s Alpine Ski World Cup are held in the region. Thousands of ski fans enjoy the extraordinary atmosphere and cheer on their favourite ski heroes. A highlight is undoubtedly the giant slalom on the Gran Risa piste in Alta Badia.

Since the 2016/17 season, a Women’s World Cup Race has been held annually on Plan de Corones/Kronplatz, namely a giant slalom on the Erta piste. The piste leads from Mt Piz de Plaies down to San Vigilio di Marebbe with a gradient of up to 61%. The piste not only demands skill from the racers, but also a great deal of courage. Each year, the highly anticipated Kronplatz Crown competition captivates spectators as athletes battle it out for the coveted title.

From late June to early July, South Tyrol celebrates its love of jazz music as the area is transformed into a vibrant stage for international musicians. Extraordinary venues like the Harpf beverage store in Bruneck’s Via Centrale, Mt Spicco/Speikboden in Sand in Taufers, and the Gardenacia mountain refuge in La Villa in Alta Badia come alive with the magic of jazz.

The Biathlon World Cup in Antholz is more than just a sporting event. It’s a gathering of passionate biathlon fans and those who aspire to be. In addition to the thrilling competitions, expect lively parties and other exciting events centred around the biathlon.

If you’re passionate about mountain biking and spectacular scenery, the Kronplatz King Marathon is just the thing for you. One of the most extraordinary events in South Tyrol ends on the 2,275m-high summit of Plan de Corones/Kronplatz. The Kronplatz King Marathon is a multifaceted challenge, featuring thrilling 8km freeride sections alongside other demanding elements.

Indulge in a culinary adventure at the South Tyrolean Speck Festival, one of the most entertaining events in the Dolomites. Immerse yourself in a weekend-long celebration of Speck bacon, a local culinary treasure, and the craftsmanship that makes it so delicious. Witness the coronation of the Speck Queen, marvel at the traditional open-air oven baking, and eagerly await the unveiling of the annual Speck Festival surprise.