Exploring Trentino-Alto Adige: A Journey with Friends

Trentino's Hidden Gems

Today was nothing short of magical, a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue that Trentino-Alto Adige so generously offers. With my friends in tow, I set out to explore some of the region's most captivating spots, and the day unfolded into an unforgettable adventure.

Our first stop was the famed Lake Tovel. The drive there was scenic, winding through the Val di Non, with the anticipation building as we approached the Adamello Brenta Natural Park. The air was crisp, a refreshing change from Hamburg's city humidity, and the promise of crystal-clear waters was too enticing to ignore. Parking was a bit steep, but the view that greeted us was worth every euro.


Discover the serene beauty of Lake Tovel, a stunning natural attraction perfect for swimming, hiking, and immersing yourself in breathtaking landscapes.

Lake Tovel, often called the “Red Lake,” is nestled amidst the Brenta Dolomites. I learned that it was once famous for its waters turning crimson red due to a unique algae, though that phenomenon no longer occurs. Still, the emerald-green waters were breathtaking, living up to its nickname as 'Trentino's Caribbean'. The mountains surrounding the lake created a stunning backdrop, perfect for some wildlife photography. I managed to capture some amazing shots of the alpine fauna, though I wished I hadn't forgotten my portable phone charger to keep my camera going! It's a lesson learned – always double-check the essentials.

We took the loop trail around the lake, an easy 4-kilometer path that offered spectacular views from every angle. The trail was mostly flat, suitable for everyone, but there was a narrow section on the west side with some steps built into the rocks. I even braved a quick dip in the lake! The water was unbelievably cold, no more than 19°C, but invigorating. Some brave souls were sunbathing at the “White Beach,” a perfect spot for relaxing by the shore.

For breakfast, we stopped at Trattoria Piedicastello in Trento. It was a delightful experience, with the restaurant boasting a charming atmosphere and beautiful decor. The convenient location made it easy to reach, and we enjoyed some traditional Italian dishes. I opted for the ragout, while my friends tried the polenta and tagliatelle, all of which were nicely cooked. The espresso was great, and the low prices were a definite plus. It was a perfect start to our day of exploration.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Piedicastello in Trento—where tradition meets taste.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Next on our itinerary was Castel Thun, a majestic castle perched on a hill above the village of Vigo di Ton. The castle is surrounded by apple orchards, a characteristic sight in the Non Valley. As we approached, the intricate fortress was a sight to behold. The castle was open, with extraordinary openings every Monday in August, which was lucky for us ! We parked and took the shuttle bus up, which cost us 1.5 euros per person.


Explore Castel Thun, a stunning medieval castle in Trentino, offering breathtaking views, rich history, and captivating art collections.

Inside, Castel Thun was like stepping back in time. The castle is filled with historical artifacts, including a collection of horse-drawn sleighs and carriages from the Thun family. The exhibition path was informative, with audio and video productions that added depth to the experience. I was particularly impressed by the armory and the family's living quarters, which offered a glimpse into their daily life. The views from the castle were panoramic, overlooking the Non Valley and the surrounding mountains. I could imagine what it must have been like to live in such a strategic and beautiful location.

After immersing ourselves in history, it was time for lunch. We found Ristorante Adige, and the food was fantastic. I don't have the menu, but the staff was friendly and the service was excellent.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Adige in Trento, where local flavors meet exceptional dining in a warm atmosphere.

Our final adventure for the day was the Rastenbachklamm gorge, near Termeno sulla Strada del Vino. This was perhaps the most thrilling part of the day, a hike through a gorge with waterfalls, bridges, and wooden walkways. The hike is considered easy, but it does involve some steep inclines and stairs. The lush deciduous forest created a jungle-like atmosphere, with mosses and ivy covering the rocks.


Explore the breathtaking Rastenbachklamm, a stunning gorge in South Tyrol known for its waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and scenic hiking trails.

The Rastenbachklamm trail was an adventurous 4.4 km, taking us about two hours to complete. The ascent and descent were both 356 meters, with the highest point at 614 meters. As we hiked, we passed a large waterfall and followed the Bärentalweg signpost. The gorge was teeming with remarkable flora, and the sound of the water rushing through the ravine was invigorating. I felt a sense of accomplishment as we reached the end of the trail, having conquered the steep steps and enjoyed the stunning viewpoints along the way.

Before dinner, we made a quick stop at Alpen Folk in Andalo. This shop is a treasure trove of souvenirs and local crafts. I picked up a few small items to remind me of our trip, including some locally made honey – a nod to my urban beekeeping back in Hamburg. The shop had a charming, rustic feel, and the staff were friendly and helpful. It was the perfect place to find unique gifts for friends and family.


Explore Alpen Folk in Andalo for unique souvenirs, local crafts, and delightful perfumes that encapsulate the essence of the Trentino region.

For dinner, we chose Al Vò in Trento, and it was the perfect end to a perfect day. This Italian restaurant is known for its traditional dishes and cozy atmosphere. I had the minestrone, followed by the guancia con polenta, both of which were delicious. My friends tried the costine di cervo and the speck, and everyone was thoroughly satisfied. The service was fast and friendly, and the prices were reasonable. It was a wonderful experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Trento.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Al Vò in Trento—where every dish tells a story and every meal is an experience.

As I reflect on the day, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore such a beautiful region with great company. Trentino-Alto Adige has a way of captivating the soul, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Tomorrow, we are heading to Ortisei in Val Gardena, the Fassa Valley, and the Sentiero panoramico San Romedio. I am particularly excited about the panoramic views and the chance to explore more of the Dolomites. I'm also looking forward to trying out Officina Gambrinus, a bar in the area. I have a feeling it will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences.

“To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.” – Aldous Huxley. This quote resonates deeply with me as I continue my journey through Trentino-Alto Adige. Each day brings new perspectives and challenges preconceived notions, reminding me of the importance of experiencing the world firsthand.

Until then, arrivederci!