Exploring the Alpine Charms of Trentino-Alto Adige

Alpine Adventures in Val Gardena & Fassa Valley

Today was a day of breathtaking beauty and cultural immersion as Daniel and I ventured through the heart of the Dolomites. From the charming village of Ortisei to the stunning vistas of Fassa Valley and the serene Punto Panoramico sul Lago di Santa Giustina, every moment was a feast for the senses. I couldn't wait to share the highlights of our day, filled with picturesque landscapes, delicious food, and unique local experiences.

Our day began in the enchanting village of Ortisei in Val Gardena.

Explore Ortisei in Val Gardena: the perfect blend of stunning hikes, rich culture, and breathtaking Dolomite views for an unforgettable travel experience.
As we strolled through the pedestrian zone, the crisp mountain air filled our lungs, and the stunning views of the surrounding peaks captivated us. Ortisei is the main village of Val Gardena, offering a delightful blend of Alpine charm and sophisticated atmosphere. The abundance of shops, cafes, and restaurants created a vibrant and welcoming ambiance. I couldn't resist popping into Alpen Folk, a local shop known for its traditional woodcrafts.

Explore Alpen Folk in Andalo for unique souvenirs, local crafts, and delightful perfumes that encapsulate the essence of the Trentino region.
The intricate carvings and handcrafted items were a testament to the rich artistic heritage of the region. I picked up a small, hand-carved wooden bird as a memento of our time in Val Gardena, something to remind me of the crisp air and stunning views. It’ll look lovely on my mantelpiece back in London.

The mountains are calling and I must go.

For breakfast, we savored a delightful meal at Ristorante La Casina.

Discover authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante La Casina in Drena - where every meal is a celebration of fresh ingredients and culinary tradition.
The cozy atmosphere and warm hospitality made us feel right at home. I opted for a traditional South Tyrolean breakfast of speck and eggs, while Daniel enjoyed a hearty plate of local cheeses and bread. Sipping on steaming cups of cappuccino, we planned our itinerary for the day, eager to explore the wonders that awaited us. It was the perfect start to a day of alpine adventures. After breakfast, we decided to explore Ortisei a bit more. We visited the Parish Church of Ortisei, a remarkable sacral building dating back to the late baroque period. The church's intricate architecture and serene atmosphere provided a moment of quiet reflection amidst our bustling day of exploration. We also admired the Chapel of St. Antonio, known for its Renaissance style and beautiful side altars. The chapel's peaceful ambiance and artistic details offered a glimpse into the region's rich religious history. We learned that about 90% of the people in Ortisei speak Ladin as their first language. Ladin is a distinct mountain cultural group found in the Dolomites. I found it fascinating that Ortisei and Val Gardena are especially known for their presepe, or nativity scenes.

Next on our itinerary was a scenic drive through the Fassa Valley.

Explore Fassa Valley's breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences in the heart of the Italian Alps.
As we wound our way along the mountain roads, the landscapes unfolded before us in all their glory. The towering peaks of the Dolomites, the lush green valleys, and the charming villages nestled along the hillsides created a mesmerizing panorama. Fassa Valley is a mountain valley in the Trentino region of Northern Italy, surrounded by the Dolomites' famous mountain groups, including Rosengarten, Sassolungo, Marmolada, and Sella. We stopped at several viewpoints along the way, eager to capture the beauty of the valley in photographs. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural splendor.

For lunch, we stopped at Alla Mostra in Fassa Valley.

Discover a fusion of Indian and Italian cuisine at Alla Mostra in Trento - where flavorful dishes meet welcoming ambiance.
This charming restaurant offered a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the flavors of the region. I savored a plate of homemade pasta with wild mushrooms, while Daniel indulged in a hearty portion of grilled meats. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. It was the perfect place to refuel and recharge before continuing our exploration of Fassa Valley.

Our final stop for the day was the Punto Panoramico sul Lago di Santa Giustina.

Discover the stunning vistas at Punto Panoramico sul Lago di Santa Giustina, a scenic viewpoint in Trento, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
As we arrived at the viewpoint, we were greeted by a breathtaking sight. The serene lake, surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests, created a picture-perfect scene. The Diga di Santa Giustina, located near Lago di Santa Giustina in the scenic Trentino region, is a remarkable tourist attraction that combines nature, engineering, and breathtaking landscapes. I learned that the imposing S. Giustina dam was inaugurated in 1951 and has since become the symbol of Valle di Non. The tranquil atmosphere of the lake invited us to take a leisurely walk along its banks, soaking in the beauty of our surroundings. The Punto Panoramico sul Lago di Santa Giustina offered a moment of serenity and reflection amidst our adventurous day.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Zum Löwen for dinner.

Experience the pinnacle of fine dining at Zum Löwen in Tisens - where exquisite flavors meet stunning views in South Tyrol.
This Michelin-starred restaurant in Tisens was a culinary highlight of our trip. The charming restaurant is housed in a skillfully restored old farm. The hay barn and old stalls have been refurbished and enhanced, so that traditional old features from the exterior can be seen in the dining room alongside more modern additions. Anna Matscher, the owner, creates gourmet dishes from the Alto Adige, which can by now be described as “classics”. I savored every bite of the traditional roast goat kid, cooked with extra-virgin olive oil and aromatic herbs, served with roast potatoes and a seasonal vegetable. Daniel opted for the venison stew, a hearty and flavorful dish that perfectly captured the essence of the region. The impeccable service and elegant ambiance added to the overall dining experience. It was the perfect way to end a day of alpine wonders.

Tomorrow, we're off to Bolzano! Our itinerary includes the Victory Monument, Castel Mareccio, and the Duomo di Bolzano. We're also planning to grab breakfast at La Maison De Filip, lunch at Al Vò, and dinner at Ristorante Tipico Al Dosarel. If we have time, we might check out L’Angolo dei 33 for a drink. I'm already excited to see what adventures await us in this charming city.

Today was a day of unforgettable experiences, showcasing the natural beauty and cultural richness of Trentino-Alto Adige. From the charming village of Ortisei to the stunning vistas of Fassa Valley and the serene Punto Panoramico sul Lago di Santa Giustina, every moment was a feast for the senses. I am so grateful for the opportunity to explore this incredible region with my husband, Daniel. As we reflect on our day, we are filled with a sense of awe and appreciation for the wonders of the Dolomites. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!