The highlights of the Val Venosta

The magnificent castle complex above Sluderno, in the sunny Val Venosta, conserves the largest private armoury and a fairytale loggia with vaults, murals and marble columns.

Immerse yourselves in a thrilling journey through the history of the Benedictine monks and participate in curious guided visits which lead you into the museum, the library and the crypt.

At Glorenza, the exhibition dedicated to the artist, native to this charming medieval town, enhances the ironic and satiric pictures of the graphic and cartoonist who at a young age cultivated his passion for art.

Even if it is the smallest village in Alto Adige, this destination has a lot to offer: medieval charm, completely preserved city walls, picturesque door towers and a rich cultural life.

In Alta Val Venosta it is possible to make a stop at the enormous underground bunkers of the XX century: authentic architectural relics of the Second World War.

Fresh fruit, vegetables, tisane, homemade jams, farm cheeses, speck… At the weekly markets you will find delicious local specialities.

In Val Venosta, at the beginning of Lent, the so called “Scheibenschlagen” is celebrated, the traditional Launching of Burning disks. Made from wood, they are made to glow in an open fire and then with sticks are vigorously thrown, reciting typical rhyming verse. This is considered a propitiatory ritual to keep winter away, to wish for good luck and for a good harvest.

On the third Sunday after Pentecost, many valleys of Alto Adige are lit up by large fires on the slopes of the mountains, depicting religious symbols such as that of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This custom dates back to 1796 and recalls the gratitude to the Tyrolean troupes for the victory against the French army.

In Alto Adige, roasted chestnuts and new wine are the main ingredients during the so called “fifth season”. When the grape harvest ends, so begins the autumnal excursions and the farmhouse inns delight their diners with the typical delicacies of Törggelen, such as mezzelune pasta filled with ricotta cheese and spinach, canederli, sauerkraut and other homemade products.

On 5th December, the first day of the St. Nicholas festivity, throughout Alto Adige the traditional Krampus parades are held, frightening masked figures who with heavy iron chains and torches, roam through the streets frightening all the inhabitants.