Discover Eisack Valley: Culture, Nature and Routes through South Tyrol

Eisack Valley is an approximately 80-kilometre-long north–south route through South Tyrol, stretching from the Brenner Pass to the provincial capital of Bolzano. As a result, the region brings together diverse landscapes, cultural attractions, and travel experiences. For orientation when travelling here, the Brenner–Bolzano–Verona railway connection belongs to the “Bolzano and surroundings, Eisack Valley” zone.

Landscape between Moorland, Alpine Pasture and Lake

The lower Eisack Valley has a long tradition of growing fruit, chestnuts, and grapes. The circular trail at Raier Moos offers a different type of landscape: it passes through various microhabitats and provides insights into the animal and plant species found there. Villanderer Alm includes marshy areas, lush meadows, stands of mountain pine, and alpine huts.

The Lago di Varna also brings together different nature experiences. On the northern shore, you can sunbathe and swim, while the southern shore is home to a protected area and a noteworthy biotope. Anyone wishing to combine nature observation, peaceful landscapes, and more active pursuits on a trip to Eisack Valley will find a range of options here.

Hiking, Cycling and Winter Sports

The Sentiero delle Castagne, also known as the Keschtnweg, is signposted with a chestnut symbol. Completing the entire trail in Eisack Valley takes five to six days. For a shorter excursion, the trail to the Cascate di Stanghe leads deep into a narrow gorge via suspension bridges and stairs. It is considered easy and is also suitable for children.

For cyclists, the Pista Ciclabile della Valle Isarco can be completed in one day, divided into two or three daily stages, or used in sections. In winter, the Ladurns ski area adds 18 kilometres of pistes to the range of activities. Depending on the time available, you can therefore compare a multi-day hike, individual nature trails, a cycling tour, or winter sports.

Castles, Monasteries and Regional History

Castel Trostburg houses the South Tyrolean Museum of Castles, featuring 86 true-to-scale models of castles and fortresses in South Tyrol. Following restoration work, Castel Trostburg is in good condition and can be visited. The Abbazia di Novacella was founded in 1142 by Hartmann, the Bishop of Bressanone. Its museum contains late medieval panel paintings and illuminated manuscripts. The abbey also offers vineyard tours with tastings by prior reservation.

The Fortezza Fortress is now a museum, exhibition venue, and event location. The Forte di Fortezza covers 65,000 square metres and was built between 1833 and 1838 as an Austrian military fortress. In Villandro, the Miniera di Villandro was one of Tyrol’s most important mining districts in the Middle Ages. Today, it is open to the public; guided tours of the Galleria Elisabeth are offered from April to October.

Further cultural attractions can be found in Bressanone and Vandoies. The Museo Diocesano in Bressanone displays sacred art from the Romanesque period through to the modern era. The Mondo del Loden in Vandoies explains how raw wool is processed into a warm fabric for coats. The Archeoparc di Villandro displays the remains of an ancient settlement, including three buildings and parts of a fourth.

Local Flavours in Eisack Valley

The tradition of Törggelen originated in Eisack Valley. During Törggelen, wine, roasted chestnuts, bacon, cheese, smoked sausages, barley soup, Schlutzkrapfen, and other traditional dishes are served. Typical Törggelen inns in Eisack Valley open their doors from the end of September to mid-November. This seasonal tradition combines regional agriculture with convivial dining and is particularly suited to a trip that brings together landscapes, culture, and local cuisine.

More places in Eisack Valley: Lüsen, Meransen, Brixen, Rodeneck, Barbian, Mühlbach, Feldthurns, Lajen, Natz-Schabs, Klausen, Villnöß, Villanders.

Back to the main travel overview: Bolzano.