The Val di Non is known for its apples, but it holds much more than that: a territory rich in natural and cultural surprises.
Val di Non is located in the northwestern part of Trentino and is famous for its vast apple orchards that shape the landscape. This wide and sunny valley, nestled between the Brenta Dolomites and the Ortles-Cevedale group, offers a perfect balance of nature, culture and tradition. Among the main peaks surrounding it stand out Cima Brenta (3,151 m), Monte Peller (2,319 m) and Cima Sasso Rosso (2,642 m), with numerous trails for trekking and panoramic hikes.
Val di Non is located in the northwestern part of Trentino and is famous for its vast apple orchards that shape the landscape. This wide and sunny valley, nestled between the Brenta Dolomites and the Ortles-Cevedale group, offers a perfect balance of nature, culture and tradition. Among the main peaks surrounding it stand out Cima Brenta (3,151 m), Monte Peller (2,319 m) and Cima Sasso Rosso (2,642 m), with numerous trails for trekking and panoramic hikes.
The main peaks surrounding the valley are ideal destinations for hiking and outdoor activities: from Cima Brenta (3,151 m), part of the renowned Adamello-Brenta Nature Park, to the more accessible Monte Peller (2,319 m), popular with hikers of all levels and up to Cima Sasso Rosso (2,642 m), which towers over the upper valley with its rugged slopes.
Completing the panorama are Monte Luco, Corno di Tres, Monte Roènand the Maddalene Range: all mountains that are not just a backdrop but become true protagonists of the Val di Non experience, offering scenic trails, high-altitude pastures, cozy mountain huts and views that stretch all the way to Adamello.
Reaching the valley is easy: it is in a strategic and well-connected location. Those arriving by car can take the A22 Brennero motorway and exit at Trento Nord or San Michele all’Adige, then continue along the SS43 towards Cles, the main town of the valley.
Those traveling by train can do so easily as well: the Trento–Malè–Mezzana railway line connects Trento with the main towns of the valley, stopping at Dermulo, Cles and other villages. Additionally, regular bus connections are available from Trento and Bolzano, making it convenient for those traveling without a car.
Val di Non is dotted with authentic and charming villages, each with its own unique identity and wonders. At the heart of the valley lies Cles, lively and well-equipped, overlooking Lake Santa Giustina and dominated by the majestic Castel Cles—a landmark for visitors to the area. Nearby is Predaia, with its many hamlets such as Coredo, Smarano and Tavon, known for its lakes and perfect for those seeking culture, spirituality and family-friendly nature experiences.
Equally rich in attractions is Borgo d’Anaunia, which brings together the towns of Fondo, Malosco and Castelfondo: here you’ll find the stunning Rio Sass Canyon, the Emerald Lake, and many panoramic trails. Not far away lies Ville d’Anaunia, encompassing Tuenno, Tassullo and Nanno —areas rich in castles such as Castel Valer and Castel Nanno and the gateway to the beautiful Lake Tovel.
Just above, Sanzeno is a place rich in history and spirituality: it is home to the Sanctuary of San Romedio, which can also be reached on foot via the Anaunia Jacobean Way and the Rhaetian Museum, which tells the story of the valley’s ancient cultural roots.
Among the iconic places, Vigo di Ton stands out—a village that houses one of Trentino’s treasures: Castel Thun, an impressive and well-preserved noble residence surrounded by apple orchards and spectacular views. It’s an unmissable stop for anyone visiting the valley.
Towards the Predaia plateau lie Cavareno and Sarnonico, villages nestled in greenery, perfect for summer holidays filled with fresh air, cycling paths, parks and family-friendly facilities. Nearby, Ronzone is known for its alpine botanical garden and rose garden, offering spectacular views of the Brenta Dolomites. From here, you can also reach Ruffré – Mendola, a border village with South Tyrol, surrounded by forests and famous for its historic funicular connecting it to Caldaro.
Among the most characteristic agricultural villages are Denno, one of the oldest in the valley, famous for its apples and farming traditions; Campodenno, with its cultivated rolling landscapes; and Contà, which includes Flavon, Cunevo and Terres, surrounded by orchards and vineyards. Romeno and Amblar – Don also offer peaceful corners and natural settings, ideal for forest hikes and for those seeking a relaxing holiday.
Heading up toward the mountains, you reach Rumo, a village with a strong alpine character, featuring scattered farmhouses and views of the Maddalene mountains and Bresimo, hidden among woods and springs, perfect for lovers of trekking and wild nature. Novella, which includes Revò, Cloz, Romallo and Cagnò, is a hilly area overlooking the Santa Giustina dam, surrounded by vineyards and scenic terraces.
Finally, there are smaller villages full of charm: Sfruz, known for its ancient majolica stoves and trails leading to Corno di Tres; Dambel, nestled among apple orchards; Cis, a quiet village at the foot of the Maddalene mountains; Livo, green and secluded on the border with South Tyrol; and Sporminore, at the entrance to the valley, which retains an authentic and rural spirit.
Summer is undoubtedly the ideal time to discover the Val di Non in all its richness. Must-visit spots include Corno di Tres, the majestic and wild Lake Tovel, the panoramic Giro delle 3 Malghe (Cloz, Revò, and Kessel) and the immersive trails of the Novella River Park, which are especially popular with families.
For those seeking relaxation and the refreshing coolness of water, the lakes of Val di Non are a true oasis: Lake Tret with its unmistakable emerald green color, the romantic and secluded Lake Rosso, the swimmable Lake Smeraldo perfect for a family day out, the impressive Lake Santa Giustina and the famous Lake Tovel, framed by the Dolomites of Brenta.
The excitement doesn’t end here: for adventure lovers, there are the valley’s canyons, such as the spectacular Rio Sass Canyon and the wild Orrido di Fondo, which can be explored via suspended walkways and guided paths through rocky walls and water features.
And for those who want to explore the valley on two wheels, the Val di Non cycling path is an ideal choice. It winds through apple orchards, castles and small villages, offering panoramic views and rest areas. It’s also easily accessible thanks to numerous bike and e-bike rental points scattered throughout the area.
In autumn, Val di Non transforms into an open-air painting. It’s the season of foliage and apple harvest—a symbolic and engaging moment that tells the agricultural soul of the valley.
Among the most anticipated events is Pomaria, the famous apple festival that livens up the villages with markets, tastings, workshops for children and autumnal atmospheres. For those seeking an authentic experience, there’s Mela Colgo, the apple harvest open also to tourists—a special opportunity to live the valley like a true farmer. To complete the picture, there are plenty of walks through apple orchards and colorful woods, perfect for families, photographers or simply anyone who loves walking in the quiet of nature preparing for winter.
Although autumn calls to the land and its fruits, the mild temperatures make visits to the castles of Val di Non even more enjoyable. The majestic Castel Thun, a symbol residence of Trentino nobility; the refined Castel Valer, with its tall octagonal tower and Renaissance frescoes; and the smaller yet charming Castel Nanno, a dive into history among gardens, halls, and centuries-old walls.
Winter in Val di Non is tailor-made for those who love the snow but prefer a slower pace, away from the crowds of large ski resorts. The valley offers small ski areas ideal for families and beginners, such as the resorts of Predaia, Monte Roen and Proves, where you can ski peacefully surrounded by enchanting landscapes.
Here, snowshoeing is the main activity: well-marked trails lead to Lake Tret, the panoramic Malga di Romeno, or along the snowy ridges of Corno di Tres. For the little ones, there are equipped areas for sledding and ice skating, while Christmas markets enliven the villages with lights, scents and handcrafted products, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere even in the coldest season.
Naturally, one cannot talk about winter in the Val di Non without mentioning its gastronomic tradition. The most iconic dish is tortèl di patate (potato dumplings), served with local cheeses, cold cuts, and cabbage. Also worth trying are raw potato gnocchi, buckwheat cake with cranberry jam, the flavorful smoked mortandela sausage, the traditional Christmas sweet zelten, fresh local cheese and a good glass of Groppello wine, typical of the valley.
Spring in the Val di Non is a celebration of colors and scents, thanks to the extraordinary blooming of the apple orchards that transform the valley into a sea of white and pink. Among the unmissable events is Fiorinda, the apple blossom festival held in Mollaro, featuring artisan markets, workshops for children, performances and tastings dedicated to the famous Melinda apples. Another symbolic experience of the season is Quattro Ville in Fiore, a race or walk through blooming orchards and ancient castles, with cultural stops, guided tours, live music and enchanting springtime views.
Nature also shows its bhis season: the lakes of Val di Non are pure poetry at this time. From Cavareno, an easy and enchanting trail leads to the Ruffrè Lakes, set in a peaceful and lush landscape—perfect for those seeking tranquility and beauty. The paths through the blossoming apple orchards surrounding Romeno, Coredo and Tassullo are ideal for walks or bike rides, offering unforgettable views and gentle, serene atmospheres.
Completing the experience are picnics in the meadows, visits to educational farms, tastings at Groppello wineries and moments of relaxation in the blooming gardens of Ronzone or at the first mountain huts open for the season.
