“I am fascinated by springtime in the Vinschgau –apple blossoms in the valley below the snow-covered mountains, with crystal-clear vistas.”

The words of Jörg Trafojer reflect his love of the Vinschgau and the natural cuisine of his restaurant, which has won numerous awards.

But it’s not just the springtime that is worth the journey

13th-century Kastelbell Castle is the highlight of the view from the Kuppelrain guesthouse. The castle features frescoes from the early 14th century, the old kitchen, the restored great hall and the courtyard. There is a permanent exhibition on the “Via Claudia Augusta”.

Hike and walk along the old waterways, the trails along the Waale to Schloss Juval (Juval Castle) or towards Latsch. The mountain railway takes you up to St. Martin in the Kofel, a mountain village at 1,740 meters. Enjoy grandiose vistas of the Etschtal (Etsch Valley) from the high hiking trail.

Romanic and Gothic churches and castles line the way along the Etsch, like the distinctive Schloss Goldrain (Goldrain Castle) with round corner towers from the 11th century. In nearby Naturns you will find the church of St. Prokulus from pre-Carolingian times in the 7th century. The church is one of the most famous historical art monuments on the European continent.

For those who are more athletic, bicycle rentals await at the Vinschgerbahn railway station in Kastelbell for a tour through the apple orchards to Merano, which is just a few kilometres away. The way back is slightly uphill, or you can take it easy on the Vinschgerbahn. (Combo-card!)

Cycling holiday in Vinschgau in South Tyrol >>>

South Tyrol, the destination for passionate golfers

Right in Lana, golfers will find one of the most beautiful 9-hole par 70 golf courses surrounded by flowering trees. Lichtenberg (also nearly 20 km away) features a 3-hole training course under gnarled 300-year-old Pala pear trees.