Eisack Valley in winter: Ladurns ski resort and 18 kilometers of slopes
Accommodation in Eisack Valley
The Ladurns ski resort is located in the Eisack Valley and offers 18 kilometers of slopes. In South Tyrol, the valley forms a north–south axis from the Brenner Pass to the provincial capital Bolzano and stretches for around 80 kilometers. Südtirolmobil lists the Brenner–Bolzano–Verona railway connection in the “Bolzano and surroundings, Eisack Valley” zone.
Trails and nature
The trail to the Cascate di Stanghe waterfalls leads deep into a narrow gorge via suspension bridges and stairs. It is described as easy and also suitable for children. The complete hike along the Sentiero delle Castagne in the Eisack Valley takes five to six days. The trail is also known as the Keschtnweg and is marked with a chestnut symbol. The Pista Ciclabile della Valle Isarco cycle path can be ridden in one day, divided into two or three daily stages, or used in sections.
The circular trail around Raier Moos provides insights into various microhabitats and the animal and plant species found there. On the northern shore of Lago di Varna, visitors can sunbathe and swim; the southern shore is home to a protected area and a biotope worth seeing. The Villanderer Alm comprises marshy areas, lush meadows, stands of mountain pine and alpine huts.
Culture and history
Castel Trostburg is in good condition following restoration work and can be visited. The castle houses the South Tyrolean Museum of Castles, with 86 true-to-scale models of castles and fortresses in South Tyrol. Abbazia di Novacella was founded in 1142 by Hartmann, the Bishop of Bressanone. Its museum includes late medieval panel paintings and illuminated manuscripts.
In the Middle Ages, Miniera di Villandro was one of Tyrol’s most important mining districts. Today it is open to the public; guided tours are offered in the Galleria Elisabeth from April to October. Today, Fortezza Fortress in the Eisack Valley is a museum, exhibition venue and event location. Forte di Fortezza covers 65,000 square meters and was built between 1833 and 1838 as an Austrian military fortress.
The Museo Diocesano in Bressanone displays sacred art from the Romanesque period to the modern era. At Mondo del Loden in Vandoies, visitors can learn how raw wool is processed into a warm fabric for coats. Archeoparc di Villandro displays the remains of an ancient settlement, including three buildings and parts of a fourth.
Food and drink
The lower Eisack Valley has a long tradition of fruit, chestnut and wine growing. The tradition of Törggelen originated in the Eisack Valley. Wine, roasted chestnuts, speck, cheese, smoked sausages, barley soup, Schlutzkrapfen and other traditional dishes are served. Typical Törggelen inns in the Eisack Valley open their doors from the end of September to mid-November. At Novacella Abbey, vineyard tours with tastings are offered by prior reservation.
Other destinations in the Eisack Valley: Barbian, Mühlbach, Lüsen, Bressanone, Meransen, Rodeneck, Villnöß, Lajen, Natz-Schabs, Villanders, Klausen, Feldthurns.
To the main travel overview: South Tyrol.
