Family Adventure in the Heart of Trentino-Alto Adige

Trentino's Embrace: Waterfalls and Fortresses

Today, Trentino-Alto Adige unveiled more of its enchanting character. It was a day of contrasts, from the soothing rush of a hidden waterfall to the stoic presence of an ancient castle. Astrid was particularly excited, her little eyes wide with wonder at every turn. Maximilian and I soaked in the history and natural beauty, feeling incredibly fortunate to share these moments as a family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Albergo Ristorante Nerina in Romeno. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made us feel right at home. I enjoyed a strong Italian coffee while Astrid devoured a plate of freshly baked pastries. Maximilian, ever the traditionalist, opted for a selection of local cheeses and cured meats. The hotel is situated amid apple orchards, and the views from the terrace were stunning. We could see the valley below, a patchwork of green fields and quaint villages. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration. Sandro, one of the owners, was incredibly helpful, guiding us through the menu and explaining the origins of each ingredient.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off for Cascata di Tret, a hidden waterfall nestled in the heart of Val di Non. The drive itself was an adventure, winding through narrow mountain roads with breathtaking vistas at every turn. As we got closer, we parked near Albergo Aurora and followed the signs for the waterfall. The trail was mostly downhill, which made it manageable for Astrid, although we had to hold her hand in some of the steeper sections. The path meandered through a lush forest, the air thick with the scent of pine and damp earth. The anticipation grew with each step, the sound of rushing water becoming increasingly louder.

Finally, we reached the viewpoint, and there it was – Cascata di Tret, a mesmerizing cascade of water plunging 70 meters into a deep gorge. The sight was simply breathtaking. Astrid gasped, pointing with glee at the shimmering water. We carefully made our way down the series of steps that led to the base of the falls. The air was cool and misty, and the roar of the water filled our ears. We spent a good hour simply marveling at the power and beauty of nature. I snapped countless photos, trying to capture the magic of the moment, while Astrid collected smooth, colorful stones from the riverbed. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, checked his watch, reminding us that we had another destination to conquer.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cascata di Tret, a serene waterfall nestled in the stunning landscapes of South Tyrol, Italy.

To walk through the gates of a castle is to step back in time, to feel the echoes of history beneath your feet.

After our refreshing encounter with Cascata di Tret, we drove towards Castel Beseno, the largest fortified complex in Trentino. As we approached, the castle loomed into view, perched atop a rocky hill, its imposing walls a testament to centuries of history. We parked at the base of the hill and began the ascent, Astrid surprisingly energetic despite our earlier hike. The path wound its way up the hillside, offering panoramic views of the Adige Valley below.

Castel Beseno is truly a sight to behold. The castle's history dates back to the 12th century, and it has been the site of numerous battles and sieges. In 1470, it became a fief of the counts Trapp, a noble family from Stiria. As we walked through the massive gates, I could almost hear the echoes of soldiers marching and the clash of swords. The castle is surrounded by two impressive elliptical curtain walls, stretching 250 meters in length. We explored the courtyards, ramparts, and towers, each offering a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape. Astrid was fascinated by the suits of armor on display, imagining herself as a medieval knight.

One of the highlights of our visit was the section dedicated to the Battle of Calliano, which took place in 1487. The battle was a turning point in the war between Venetian troops and the fighters of Trentino and Tyrol. The castle has immersive rooms that recreate the episode. We also explored the kitchens, wine cellars and even got our hands on helmets and shields.


Explore the enchanting Castel Beseno, a historical fortress offering breathtaking views and a deep dive into Trentino's rich cultural heritage.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the valley, we made our way back down the hill, our hearts full of the day's adventures. Before heading back to our accommodation, we stopped at Il Maso Dello Speck, a local shop known for its traditional speck and other regional specialties. We stocked up on various cured meats, cheeses, and artisanal bread, planning a picnic for tomorrow's adventure. The shop was filled with the aromas of smoked meats and aged cheeses, a true sensory delight.

For dinner, we decided to try Zum Löwen in Tisens, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its classic and modern cuisine. The restaurant is housed in a skilfully restored old farm, and everything from the hay barn to the old stalls has been refurbished. Anna Matscher, the owner, creates gourmet dishes from the Alto Adige. I opted for the traditional roast goat kid, while Maximilian chose a pasta dish with local mushrooms. Astrid, of course, had a simple but delicious plate of gnocchi. The food was exquisite, the service impeccable, and the ambiance charming.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. Trentino-Alto Adige is a region of unparalleled beauty and history, and I'm so glad to be sharing it with my family. Tomorrow, we're off to Lake Tovel and the Canyon Rio Sass, two more gems of this incredible region. I can't wait to see what adventures await us.

Tomorrow promises more natural wonders as we plan to visit Lake Tovel and explore the depths of Canyon Rio Sass. And perhaps, if the day allows, we'll unwind at Anima Lounge & Fish bar for a relaxing evening drink. Until then, goodnight from the heart of the Italian Alps.