Exploring Trentino-Alto Adige: A Journey with Friends

Day 6: Delving into Trento's Depths

Today felt like stepping into a history book, but one with plenty of fresh air and modern twists. Trentino-Alto Adige continues to surprise me with its blend of the ancient and the contemporary. I'm eager to share the day's adventures, from exploring castle ruins to wandering through unique underground spaces.

The day started with a hearty breakfast at Ristorante Il Libertino Trento. The cozy setting, with its dark wood accents and vaulted ceilings, was the perfect place to fuel up for a day of exploration. I opted for a traditional Trentino dish, which was delicious. It was a great start, and I knew I'd need the energy for the day ahead. Valentina, the sommelier, was incredibly helpful and passionate about the extensive wine selection.

Our first stop was Castelchiaro, a ruin that has been watching over Lake Caldaro for centuries. The drive there was beautiful, winding through vineyards and past small villages. The castle itself sits high on a hill, and the walk up was a bit of a climb, but the views were more than worth it. From the top, we could see the lake sparkling in the distance and the surrounding mountains stretching out in every direction. The ruins themselves were fascinating, and it was easy to imagine what life must have been like here so many years ago. The Lords of Rottenburg likely built it around 1250. Since 1610, Castelchiaro was abandoned and fell into disrepair. I took dozens of photos, trying to capture the beauty and history of this place. I was particularly struck by the remnants of frescoes from the 15th century. It's amazing how much history is packed into this region.


Discover the enchanting Castelchiaro in South Tyrol, a castle ruin offering stunning views and a rich historical experience.

After Castelchiaro, we headed back towards Trento to Parco Naturale del Doss Trento. This park offers a green escape right in the city, with trails leading to panoramic views. The park is not just about breathtaking views; it also has various amenities to enhance your visit. The walk to the top was pleasant, and the views of Trento were stunning. The mausoleum of Cesare Battisti added a somber note to the experience, a reminder of the region's more recent history. I appreciated the blend of nature and history in this park; it's a place where you can reflect and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.


Discover the breathtaking landscapes and serene atmosphere of Parco Naturale del Doss Trento, a stunning park perfect for outdoor adventures.

For lunch, we stopped at Terramia - Ristorante Mediterraneo. The Mediterranean flavors were a welcome change of pace, and I enjoyed a delicious branzino. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, and it was a perfect spot to recharge after our morning adventures. The intimate atmosphere of this restaurant allows guests to relax after a hard working day.

The best journeys are those that lead us not only to new places, but also to new perspectives.

After lunch, we visited The Piedicastello Tunnel, a unique attraction that I was particularly excited about. These tunnels, once used for road traffic, have been transformed into exhibition spaces. The contrast between the dark, enclosed space and the art installations was striking. The black tunnel hosts large and evocative installations which have a strong visual impact. The white tunnel provides facilities for events and descriptive installations. The tunnels are not a traditional museum, perhaps not even a museum. It’s more a workshop and a participatory place; a cultural space where different languages interact in order to promote an awareness of history, excite the curiosity and raise questions. The Piedicastello Tunnel is not just a historical museum; it is a journey through time that immerses visitors in the rich cultural tapestry of Trento. The multifunctionality of the space makes it a hub for cultural exchange and social interaction, enhancing the overall experience for tourists. It was a thought-provoking experience, and I left with a newfound appreciation for the creative reuse of urban spaces.


Discover the Piedicastello Tunnel in Trento, a unique fusion of history and modernity that offers captivating exhibitions and cultural experiences.

For dinner, we decided to try La Maison De Filip. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The menu featured a concise selection of carefully thought-out dishes, with starters, first and main courses (meat, fish or vegetarian) that are elegant, well prepared and contemporary in style. I opted for a dish featuring local ingredients, and it was a culinary masterpiece. The presentation was beautiful, and the flavors were perfectly balanced. The soft lighting and minimalist furnishings contribute to making every visit a moment of relaxation and refined exclusivity, perfect for those who wish to immerse themselves in a charming environment in the center of Trento. It was the perfect ending to a day of exploring Trento's treasures.


Discover authentic Italian flavors at La Maison De Filip in Trento - where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.

To cap off the night, we checked out Discoteca Spleen 2.0. The club often hosts special events and themed nights, attracting both international DJs and local talent. The music was great, and the atmosphere was electric. It was a fun way to unwind and experience the local nightlife.


Discover the electrifying nightlife of Discoteca Spleen 2.0, where vibrant music and lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights in Località Produttiva I.

Reflecting on the day, I'm struck by how much Trento has to offer. From ancient castles to modern art spaces, this city is full of surprises. It's a place where history and culture come alive, and I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to explore it with my friends. I am also mindful of the small things I forgot to pack, like a portable phone charger, which would have been useful today. I will make sure I have that for tomorrow, as we are heading to the Canyon Rio Sass, Victory Monument, and Terrazza delle Dolomiti. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we explore more of this beautiful region. We will have breakfast at Osteria Casa De Gentili, lunch at Trattoria Piedicastello, and dinner at Ristorante Lusernarhof - cucina di montagna. Perhaps we will even have time for a drink at Anima Lounge & Fish bar. It will be a busy day, but I am looking forward to it.

Tomorrow marks the end of our trip, and I'm already feeling a bit sad about leaving. However, I know that the memories and experiences we've shared will stay with me for a long time. Trentino-Alto Adige has captured my heart, and I hope to return someday to explore even more of its hidden corners.