Exploring Trentino-Alto Adige: A Journey with Friends

Giardini, Musei e Cascate: Una Giornata Indimenticabile

The third day of our Trentino-Alto Adige adventure was nothing short of spectacular. With a blend of meticulously curated gardens, insightful mountain history, and the raw power of nature's waterfalls, it was a day that catered to all my senses and interests. The weather in Trento during August is generally warm, with daytime temperatures around 23°C and nighttime temperatures around 14°C. I made sure to pack layers and a rain jacket, just in case.

Our day began in the enchanting Giardini Trauttmansdorff in Merano. The gardens are spread over 12 hectares with an altitude difference of 100 meters and offer views of Merano and the surrounding mountains. As someone who appreciates both the beauty of nature and thoughtful design, I was eager to explore this botanical paradise. Luckily, the gardens were hosting the World Music Festival, and Milky Chance was scheduled to perform later in the week. Although we wouldn't be able to stay for the concert, the atmosphere was already buzzing with excitement.


Explore the stunning Giardini Trauttmansdorff in Merano, a perfect blend of botanical gardens and historical charm amidst breathtaking landscapes.
The gardens are divided into four main sections: Forests of the World, the Sun Gardens, the Water and Terraced Gardens, and Landscapes of South Tyrol. Each area offered a unique experience, from the lush greenery of exotic plants to the vibrant colors of Mediterranean flora. I was particularly captivated by the Sun Gardens, where the arid landscape was brought to life with cacti and succulents. I spent a considerable amount of time snapping photos, trying to capture the intricate details of each plant. It was a feast for the eyes, and I even picked up some inspiration for my own rooftop garden back in Hamburg. I could envision some of these drought-resistant beauties thriving amidst the urban landscape. As we strolled through the gardens, we stumbled upon an event – the presentation of a new book at the Touriseum, titled 'Die Julius-Payer-Hütte 150 Jahre alpine Gastfreundschaft am Ortler'. It was fascinating to learn about the history of alpine hospitality and the stories behind the mountain huts. The Touriseum itself was also worth a visit. It presents 250 years of tourism history in an interactive display.

The mountains are calling and I must go.

After a morning immersed in the beauty of Trauttmansdorff, we drove to Bolzano to visit the Messner Mountain Museum Firmian. As an avid mountaineering enthusiast, I was excited to explore Reinhold Messner's vision of the enchanted mountain. The museum is housed in Firmiano Castle, also known as Sigmundskron Castle, which is one of South Tyrol's most important historical sites. Before becoming a museum, the castle was the site of a large protest for South Tyrolean autonomy in 1957. MMM Firmian is the central museum in the MMM network and is dedicated to the theme of humans' relationship with mountains. The museum explores the history of mountaineering and presents mountains in art. The castle itself is a work of art, with interconnected stairs, towers, and open-air grounds. I was particularly moved by the exhibits documenting the religious and practical significance of mountains. Learning about the struggles for autonomy that took place within the castle walls added another layer of depth to the experience. We were lucky enough to be there during one of the discussions by the fire, a series of talks with experts in various fields. It was a unique opportunity to engage with other visitors and delve deeper into the themes explored in the museum. I learned that in August, the museum hosts discussions by the fire, offering exciting conversations with various experts in a unique atmosphere.


Explore the Messner Mountain Museum Firmian - a captivating blend of culture, history, and breathtaking mountain views in Bolzano, South Tyrol.
After immersing ourselves in the world of mountains and museums, it was time for a late lunch. We stopped by Dal Marcante Specialità Alimentari in Trento, a restaurant and organic shop known for its commitment to local ingredients and traditional recipes. I opted for a sandwich featuring local speck and cheese, while my friends enjoyed hearty pasta dishes. The restaurant has a rustic charm and a warm atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a casual lunch. Dal Marcante offers regional dishes such as Speck Dal Marcante and formaggio nostrano. The staff was friendly and helpful, recommending wine pairings to complement our meals. I made sure to pick up some artisanal cheeses and handmade pasta from the organic shop to bring back to Hamburg.


Explore authentic Italian cuisine at Dal Marcante Specialitá Alimentari in Trento – where organic meets tradition.
With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to our final destination of the day: Cascata di Tret. The waterfall is located near Fondo in South Tyrol and is known for its breathtaking beauty and tranquil atmosphere. After parking our car, we followed the signs to the waterfall, embarking on a scenic 30-minute walk along a well-marked trail. The hike itself was an enjoyable experience, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. As we approached the waterfall, the sound of rushing water grew louder, creating a symphony that harmonized with the chirping birds and rustling leaves. The Cascata di Tret plunges down rocky cliffs into a serene pool below. The descent into the gorge was an adventure in itself, with over 100 stairs leading to the base of the waterfall. The water cascaded down with tremendous force, creating a refreshing mist that enveloped the air. I took some time to simply stand there, soaking in the beauty and power of nature. It was a perfect end to a day filled with exploration and discovery. We started our hike opposite the Restaurant Greti.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cascata di Tret, a serene waterfall nestled in the stunning landscapes of South Tyrol, Italy.
Tonight, we're planning to grab dinner at Green Tower, which promises a delightful dining experience. Afterward, we might explore the Accademia del Gin di Linda, a local bar known for its impressive selection of gins. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Lake Tovel, Castel Thun, and Rastenbachklamm. Each of us is looking forward to discovering more of Trentino-Alto Adige's natural and cultural treasures. It's been an incredible journey so far, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Green Tower in Trento – home of delicious pizzas and warm hospitality.

Experience the finest selection of gins and cocktails in Trento at the inviting Accademia del Gin di Linda, where comfort meets creativity.