Valle Isarco, a land of castles, vineyards, and spectacular peaks, is a journey through history, nature, and landscapes that look like paintings crafted by the mountains.
The Valle Isarco, known in German as Eisacktal, is located in South Tyrol, in the heart of the Alps. The valley stretches from Fortezza, just south of the Brenner Pass, down to Bolzano, following the course of the Isarco River and passing through historic towns such as Vipiteno, Bressanone, and Chiusa. Here, majestic mountains meet gentle vineyard-covered hills, creating a landscape that changes its charm with every season.
The Valle Isarco, known in German as Eisacktal, is located in South Tyrol, in the heart of the Alps. The valley stretches from Fortezza, just south of the Brenner Pass, down to Bolzano, following the course of the Isarco River and passing through historic towns such as Vipiteno, Bressanone, and Chiusa. Here, majestic mountains meet gentle vineyard-covered hills, creating a landscape that changes its charm with every season.
The peaks surrounding the valley are among the most striking in the Dolomites. Notable landmarks include the jagged spires of the Odle Group, rising above Val di Funes, and the towering Sass de Putia, which marks the border between Valle Isarco and Val Badia.
Another key feature is Mount Plose, overlooking Bressanone, popular for skiing in winter and scenic hikes in summer. The Mountains of Luson and Villandro offer gentler terrain, ideal for walks through forests and alpine farms, while the Rodengo Alp is a vast plateau perfect for trekking and snowshoeing.
Getting to Valle Isarco is easy thanks to its strategic location. Drivers can take the A22 Brenner Motorway, which connects the valley with Northern Europe via Innsbruck and Munich, as well as with the rest of Italy through Veronaand Bologna.
The Brenner railway line runs directly through the valley, with stops in all the main towns including Vipiteno, Bressanone, Chiusa, and Fortezza. For those arriving from further away, the airports in Innsbruck, Verona, and Munich offer convenient international connections. From there, the valley is easily reachable by train or bus.
Valle Isarco is dotted with charming towns and villages that preserve the authentic character of South Tyrol.
One of the most important is Vipiteno, the northernmost town in the valley, located just a few kilometers from the Austrian border. With its medieval old town, colorful houses, and the iconic Torre delle Dodici (Zwölferturm), Vipiteno is considered one of the most beautiful towns in Italy. In winter, it’s a hotspot for skiing thanks to the Racines-Giovo resort, while in summer it offers beautiful walks through the Val di Vizze and Val Ridanna.
Further south lies Bressanone, the largest town in the valley and its cultural heart. Over a thousand years old, Bressanone is famous for its Cathedral, with a frescoed cloister, the Bishop’s Palace, and the Pharmacy Museum. Its charm is enhanced by its proximity to Mount Plose, a favorite destination for both skiers and hikers. During the Christmas season, the historic center hosts one of the most atmospheric Christmas markets in South Tyrol.
Further down the valley is Chiusa, a medieval gem nestled among the mountains, known for its picturesque old town and the Monastery of Sabiona, which overlooks the valley from above. Walking through Chiusa’s narrow streets feels like stepping back in time, surrounded by cozy inns and artisan shops. Chiusa is also one of the main stops along the Valle Isarco Wine Road, thanks to its excellent wineries.
Close to Chiusa is Velturno, a small village set among vineyards and chestnut groves. It’s home to Castel Velturno, once the summer residence of the Prince-Bishops of Bressanone and now open to visitors. The area is well known for the Törggelen tradition — a seasonal celebration of new wine and local dishes enjoyed in rustic taverns and farms.
Another captivating village is Villandro, famous for its panoramic alpine plateau, which offers spectacular views of the Dolomites. It’s also the starting point of the Chestnut Trail (Keschtnweg), one of the most scenic walks in the valley, winding through forests and old farms. Not far from here, Gudon is a peaceful, lesser-known destination ideal for those seeking authenticity and quiet.
Among the mountain villages, Maranza and Valles are beloved by both hikers and skiers. Located above the Rio di Pusteria basin, they offer wide-open views and numerous trails leading to alpine huts and peaks. Also Luson, at the foot of its namesake mountain pasture, is perfect for those who love pristine nature.
Near Bolzano, the town of Varna is known for the Abbey of Novacella, one of the most important monasteries in South Tyrol, while Laion serves as the gateway to Val Gardena. Further north, Fortezza is famous for its vast Austro-Hungarian fortress, once a defensive stronghold, now a cultural and exhibition venue.
The village of Campo di Trens, with its pilgrimage site Maria Trens, is ideal for travelers in search of peace and spirituality, set in a truly authentic rural environment. Colle Isarco, near the Brenner Pass, offers stunning mountain scenery and a relaxing atmosphere, perfect year-round. From here, visitors can access Val di Vizze, an untouched side valley with quiet trails and pure alpine views. Finally, Racines and Ridanna are ideal destinations for outdoor lovers. In summer, they offer endless hiking opportunities; in winter, they become ski paradises with modern lifts and scenic slopes.
Summer in Valle Isarco is the perfect time to rediscover the joy of the mountains. One must-see destination is the Lago dei Morti (“Lake of the Dead”), not far from Malga di Villandro. Despite its ominous name, this mountain lake is anything but gloomy — surrounded by peaks and silence, it’s a timeless, almost mythical place that invites reflection. For those seeking more adventure, the Stanghe Waterfalls offer an adrenaline-filled hike with suspended walkways and wooden bridges through a narrow gorge carved by rushing water — a natural spectacle just waiting to be explored.
In Campo di Trens, the Bee Trail is an educational and fun experience for all ages. This easy path immerses visitors in nature while introducing them to the fascinating world of bees, with interactive displays, flowers, and beehives along the route. If you’re craving quiet, the Swiss pine trail in Val di Luson invites you to slow down and breathe in the aromatic scent of these ancient trees. Even the youngest hikers can enjoy the mountains without strain: family-friendly trails and cozy mountain huts in Luson, Racines, or the charming Malga Fane offer authentic experiences among animals, alpine meadows, and local flavors.
But Valle Isarco isn’t just about hiking. Historic towns like Chiusa, Velturno, Villandro, and Bressanone tell their centuries-old stories through stone-paved streets, castles, and monasteries. And if you’re looking for a truly special summer evening, don’t miss the Lantern Festival in Vipiteno — a magical night filled with lights, music, and fragrances, turning the village into an unforgettable summer dream.
Autumn in Valle Isarco is an explosion of colors, aromas, and authentic flavors. This is the season to discover the valley’s signature white wines, like Sylvaner and the fragrant Gewürztraminer, best enjoyed in cozy local kellereien (wineries) where wine is still the product of a deep bond with the land. These wines pair perfectly with a warm wine soup, a platter of mountain cheeses, speck, and rustic bread — simple, genuine, and full of character.
One of the most authentic experiences to enjoy in autumn is walking the famous Chestnut Trail (Keschtnweg). This scenic route runs along the sun-drenched slopes above Chiusa, Villandro, and Velturno, passing through vineyards, chestnut groves, and traditional farms. It’s suitable even for beginner hikers and rewards with panoramic views and cultural richness. Along the trail, you’re warmly invited to stop at one of the rustic Törggelen stube — cozy, wood-paneled taverns where the harvest is celebrated with new wine, roasted chestnuts, and hearty South Tyrolean dishes. These convivial meals are more than just a culinary treat — they capture the true spirit of autumn in Valle Isarco.
Winter in Valle Isarco invites you to slow down and immerse yourself in a peaceful world of snow-covered mountains, historic villages, and age-old traditions. For winter sports lovers, this South Tyrolean valley is a true hidden gem: the ski areas of Plose, Gitschberg Jochtal (Rio Pusteria), Racines-Giovo, Ladurns, and Monte Cavallo together offer over 130 km of perfectly groomed slopes. Plose, above Bressanone, features South Tyrol’s longest downhill run (9 km), ideal for thrill-seekers and lovers of sweeping views. Ladurns and Racines are especially popular with families, thanks to modern facilities, beginner-friendly slopes, and excellent ski schools for children.
For those who prefer a slower pace, Valle Isarco offers a network of trails perfect for snowshoeing and winter hiking. Some of the most scenic routes include the Villandro Alp, the Luson-Rodengo Plateau, and the Val di Funes — all easily accessible and set in silent, snow-draped forests. Tobogganing fans can enjoy over 50 km of sledding tracks, including the Plose run, more than 10 km long and also open for night sledding. Every activity is an opportunity to breathe crisp mountain air and marvel at the Dolomite scenery.
But winter in Valle Isarco is not just about sport — it’s also about culture, flavors, and festive magic. During Advent, villages like Bressanone, Chiusa, and Vipiteno transform into storybook settings: traditional Christmas markets, twinkling lights, the scent of mulled wine, and carols fill the air with warmth and joy. In Chiusa, the medieval market is one of the most unique in South Tyrol, with street performers, jugglers, and characters in historical costume.
Spring is one of the best seasons to visit Valle Isarco, when nature awakens, the temperatures are mild, and the landscapes transform day by day. During this time, you can admire the apple blossom season — especially around Bressanone and nearby Varna, where a walk around the peaceful Lake Varna offers a refreshing connection with nature.
For cyclists, the Valle Isarco Cycle Path is one of the most complete in South Tyrol. Starting from the Brenner Pass, it runs all the way to Bolzano, passing through towns like Vipiteno, Chiusa, and Bressanone. Along the way, riders will find scenic rest stops, wineries, and restaurants to enjoy the local atmosphere.
Culturally, spring is the perfect moment to visit the valley’s historic centers and castles. Highlights include Castel Rodengo, Castel Wolfsthurn, and the impressive Abbey of Novacella — each offering unique insight into the history and heritage of the region. Gastronomy plays an important role in this season too. Local wineries reopen their doors for tastings of fresh white wines such as Gewürztraminer and Müller-Thurgau, often paired with seasonal spring dishes like wild herb salads and light mountain cheeses. Spring in Valle Isarco is a time of renewal — perfect for those who seek both beauty and authenticity in every experience.
