Family Adventure in the Heart of Trentino-Alto Adige

A Whirlwind Start in Trentino-Alto Adige

After a long but scenic drive from Bamberg, we finally arrived in Trentino-Alto Adige! The air is crisp, the mountains are majestic, and the promise of adventure hangs heavy in the air. Astrid was practically bouncing in her seat with excitement, and even Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, couldn't help but crack a smile as we navigated the charming streets of Trento. This first day was all about immersing ourselves in the local culture and witnessing some of the region's most breathtaking sights.



Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Forsterbräu Trento [i]. This rustic-chic restaurant-brewery was the perfect spot to fuel up for our explorations. I opted for a classic Trentino breakfast of speck and local cheese, while Maximilian enjoyed a traditional German-style wurstel with homemade mustard. Astrid, of course, went straight for the pastries, her face dusted with powdered sugar as she devoured a delicious croissant. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and I could already feel the charm of Trentino seeping into our bones. It was the perfect way to start our Italian adventure, a delightful blend of familiar German comforts and exciting new Italian flavors. The hearty breakfast fuelled us up for a day of exploring, setting a positive tone for our family adventure. The staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home, and the rustic ambiance truly immersed us in the local Trentino culture.





Our first stop was the Orrido di Ponte Alto, a breathtaking gorge just a short drive from the city center. I had read about it in our travel guidebook, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer magnificence of this natural wonder. As we approached, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation. The entrance to the gorge is unassuming, but once inside, we were transported to another world. A partly covered path led us down through the rocks, the air growing cooler and damper with each step. Astrid gasped as we rounded a corner and the two magnificent waterfalls came into view, plunging more than 40 meters into the depths below.


Discover the stunning beauty of Orrido di Ponte Alto, a natural gorge in Trento, Italy, featuring breathtaking rock formations and serene waterfalls.

The history of the Orrido is as fascinating as its beauty. These ancient hydraulic works, dating back to the 16th century, were built to prevent flooding in Trento. It's incredible to think that such a practical solution could also create such a spectacular sight. The guided tour, which is mandatory for safety reasons, was incredibly informative. Our guide shared captivating stories about the gorge's history and the engineering marvels that control the water flow. Astrid, despite her initial awe, was soon peppering the guide with questions, her curiosity piqued by the blend of nature and human ingenuity.

The earth has music for those who listen.

Navigating the path was an adventure in itself. The trail is well-maintained but includes stairs and narrow passages, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs. I was a bit nervous about the exposed balconies and tight spaces, as I sometimes get a touch of vertigo, but the views were more than worth it. Maximilian, ever the steady presence, held my hand as we traversed the trickier sections, and Astrid, fearless as always, skipped ahead, eager to discover what lay around the next bend. The experience was truly immersive, engaging all our senses. The cool mist from the waterfalls kissed our faces, the roar of the water filled our ears, and the sheer scale of the gorge was humbling. It was a perfect reminder of the power and beauty of nature, a lesson I was grateful to share with my family.



After the exhilarating experience at the Orrido di Ponte Alto, we drove back to Trento and headed straight for the heart of the city: Piazza Duomo. Here stands the Trento Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Vigilius. This magnificent Roman Catholic cathedral is the mother church of the Archdiocese of Trento and a testament to centuries of history and architectural evolution.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Trento Cathedral, a stunning Gothic masterpiece in the heart of Trento, Italy.

The cathedral is built on the site of a pre-existing 4th-century church dedicated to Saint Vigilius, the city's patron saint. The current structure largely retains the form of the 1212 reconstruction in the Lombard-Romanesque style. As we approached, I was struck by the grandeur of the façade, dominated by a large rose window depicting the Wheel of Fortune. The lions supporting the columns of the narthex on the northern side added a touch of ancient mystique.



Inside, the cathedral is equally impressive. The nave and two aisles lead to a transept adorned with 14th-century frescoes depicting the legend of Saint Julian. Astrid was particularly fascinated by these colorful depictions, asking endless questions about the characters and their stories. The apse of the right transept houses the relics of local martyrs, Sisinio, Martirio, and Alessandro, who died around 397 AD. It's a somber reminder of the city's rich and often tumultuous past.



One of the most significant features of the cathedral is the Crucifix Chapel, built in 1682. It was here, at the feet of a wooden crucifix, that the decrees of the Council of Trent were promulgated between 1545 and 1563. This pivotal event in the history of the Catholic Church shaped the course of Christianity for centuries to come. Standing in that chapel, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and reverence for the weight of history that permeated the very stones around us.



Before dinner, we took a stroll through the city center and stopped at the THUN Shop. This charming store, known for its distinctive ceramic pieces, is a delightful celebration of Italian craftsmanship. Astrid was immediately drawn to the whimsical figurines, while I admired the elegant home décor. We picked up a small, hand-painted ceramic angel as a memento of our first day in Trento. It's a small reminder of the beauty and artistry we encountered, a tangible piece of Trentino culture to bring back to our home in Bamberg.


Discover unique Italian craftsmanship at THUN Shop in Trento, offering a variety of beautiful handcrafted collectibles and gifts.

For lunch, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Ristorante Antica Trattoria Due Mori. This historic restaurant, dating back to the 15th century, is known for its traditional Trentino cuisine. We started with a selection of local cured meats and cheeses, followed by a hearty plate of canederli, a traditional bread dumpling soup. Maximilian raved about the strangolapreti, a spinach gnocchi with a rather intriguing name, which translates to priest strangler. Astrid, surprisingly, devoured a plate of polenta with mushrooms, a dish I never thought she would try, let alone enjoy. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the service was warm and attentive. It was the perfect place to relax and savor the flavors of the region after a busy day of sightseeing. Eating at Ristorante Antica Trattoria Due Mori felt like stepping back in time, a truly immersive experience that connected us to the history and traditions of Trento.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Antica Trattoria Due Mori in Trento - where every meal is a celebration of tradition.

As evening approached, we made our way to Scrigno del Duomo for dinner. This restaurant, located in the heart of Trento, offers a refined dining experience with a modern twist on traditional Italian dishes. I opted for the homemade tagliolini with local deer ragu and wild berries, while Maximilian enjoyed the veal cheek with creamy potatoes and salted spinach. The food was exquisite, each dish a work of art in both presentation and flavor. The restaurant also doubles as a wine bar, so we sampled a few local wines while enjoying a stunning view of the Duomo. The ambiance was elegant and sophisticated, a perfect way to end our first day in Trentino. The stunning view of the Duomo added a touch of magic to the evening, creating a memory I know we will cherish for years to come.


Discover exquisite Italian flavors at Scrigno del Duomo - a culinary treasure in Trento's historic heart.

As we walked back to our rental, the city was bathed in the soft glow of streetlights. The sounds of laughter and conversation drifted from the cafes and restaurants, creating a vibrant and convivial atmosphere. I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. Our first day in Trentino-Alto Adige had been a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and flavors, a perfect introduction to this enchanting region. I am so excited to see what tomorrow brings, with plans to visit the MUSE science museum and the Buonconsiglio Castle Museum. I have a feeling this family adventure is just getting started!



Today, May 10, 2025, also seems to be a day filled with local events. There's the Anticipatory Governance conference at ITAS Forum, and a concert dedicated to something special at the Teatro Auditorium Santa Chiara. Perhaps we'll catch some local music while we're here!



Looking ahead, I need to remember to buy a portable phone charger and a first aid kit. It would be helpful and useful, especially when we plan to hike through the Dolomites !