San Genesio: The Sunny Balcony Over Bolzano and the Dolomites
If you dream of a breathtaking view over Bolzano, surrounded by silence, pure air, and unspoiled landscapes, then San Genesio is a must-see stop on your South Tyrol journey. Situated at around 1,000 meters above sea level, this charming mountain village overlooks the provincial capital, just 10 km away. Despite its proximity to the city, it feels like another world — quieter, more authentic, and closer to nature.
San Genesio lies on the Monzoccolo plateau, one of the sunniest areas in South Tyrol, where summers are short and fresh, and every season offers unforgettable visual and sensory emotions.
The Salto Plateau: Larches, Horses, and Dreamlike Trails
What makes this place even more special is the nearby Salto plateau, one of the most evocative landscapes in the entire region. Here, wide meadows alternate with centuries-old larch forests, creating the perfect habitat for the majestic Haflinger horses, a breed originally from these very lands.
The Salto is an ideal hiking destination all year round:
- In summer, it offers relaxing trails, fresh air, and unrivaled views of the Catinaccio, Sciliar, and Brenta Dolomites.
- In autumn, nature dresses in red, gold, and amber, painting a landscape of rare beauty.
- In spring, the blooming meadows come alive with vivid colors and intense fragrances.
- In winter, the plateau turns into a perfect spot for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or peaceful walks through a soft, silent snow-covered setting.
A Scenic Ascent Through History
The most charming way to reach San Genesio is via the historic San Genesio cable car, built in 1937. Once the only direct connection to Bolzano, it is now a fast, eco-friendly, and panoramic way to reach the mountain village.
The departure station is located next to Roncolo Castle, just outside the city center. In only nine minutes, the ride offers one of South Tyrol’s most spectacular views: you can admire the Lake CaldaroLake Caldaro, the castles of Appiano, the snow-covered Dolomite peaks, and the terraced landscape of the Bolzano basin gradually fading as you approach San Genesio.
Fun Fact: Did You Know...?
- The Salto plateau is the largest larch plateau in Europe.
- The Haflinger horses grazing freely on the Salto meadows are a symbol of South Tyrol and often star in fairs and equestrian events.
- The name “Monzoccolo” probably derives from the Latin “Monzocolum,” meaning a wooded plateau.
San Genesio is a stunning panoramic terrace over Bolzano, but also a haven of peace, nature, and authenticity. Whether you wish to stroll among the larches of the Salto, watch Haflinger horses running free, or simply breathe in the fresh mountain air, here you’ll find a corner of South Tyrol that refreshes both body and soul.
