South Tyrol, Italy
South Tyrol, Italy
South Tyrol is the northernmost province in Italy, and is located right on the border with Austria and Switzerland. The landscape is mountainous, with its most famous peaks being the Dolomites, a mountain range in the eastern part of the region that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2009.
Due to its geography, the region is a very popular skiing destination in winter. In the warmer months visitors enjoy outdoor activities like mountain climbing, mountain biking, hiking and paragliding. The majestic peaks of the different mountain ranges offer stunning views all year around.
Culturally, being right at the crossroads of Austria, Switzerland and Italy, the area gracefully blends the northern European with the Mediterranean, which can be seen in the region’s gastronomy, culture and arts, as well as in the different languages spoken. Although South Tyrol is part of Italy, most of the population in this area speaks German. Road and trail signage will be written in either Italian or German, and sometimes even in a third language: Ladin, an ancient Rhaeto-Romance language that was introduced by the original inhabitants of the Dolomite valleys over 1.000 years ago and is still spoken by a small part of the population today.
Recent News:
Italy's best kept secret - South Tyrol
- For the second time this year, the world is holding its breath as everything has changed again within a very short time. But if there is one thing we have learned during this pandemic, it’s how important it is to slow down and to enjoy the important role nature plays in our lives. And, if you have young children like me, how crucial it is to find some well-deserved “alone time”.
| Languages spoken | Italian, German |
|---|---|
| Currency used | Euro |
| Area (km2) | 7.398 km² |
| Country name | Italy |
Activities for kids
Climbing park in Vipiteno/Sterzing
This climbing park offers guaranteed fun for everyone! Both adults and children can try their skills climbing on a course in the middle of the treetops, glide by long ziplines, go up high on a climbing tree or relax in a hammock. It is located in the town of Vipiteno (Sterzing in German). You can find more information here.
Hiking
In summer, try one of the several family-friendly hiking trails that surround the resort and be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. In some areas you can take cable cars up the mountains or race down with the children using a mountain cart. There is also a picturesque ring trail in Ratschings called Mountain Adventure World with lots of original attractions, where both adults and children can have fun while learning many things about the Alpine landscape.
Skiing
During the winter months there are several different skiing in the area, as well as ski schools for the little ones to start learning or improve their skills on the slopes. Additionally, beautiful snowshoe hikes and long toboggan rides await you all winter long!