Val Sarentino: South Tyrolean Authenticity Amid Tradition, Nature, and Silence
Just a few kilometers from Bolzano, nestled in the heart of South Tyrol, lies one of the most genuine and unspoiled valleys in the region: Val Sarentino. Nearly 50 km long and surrounded by towering peaks and larch forests, this valley is a world of its own — where tradition can be felt at every step and time seems to slow down.
A Place Out of Time
In Val Sarentino, everything speaks of local identity and connection to the land. The small villages scattered along the valley — such as Sarentino, Campolasta, Pens, and Pennes — still preserve an authentic atmosphere, far from mass tourism. Wooden houses, mountain chapels, and old farmsteads are living witnesses of a culture that has managed to keep its roots intact.
Here, the German language coexists with the local dialect “Sarnerisch,” a unique idiom that tells the story of a strong people, accustomed to living in harmony with nature.
The Charm of the Sarner — The Beating Heart of Val Sarentino
Known in German as “Sarner”, Sarentino is famous for its namesake traditional costume, one of the most distinctive in all of South Tyrol. Made of sheep’s wool, it faithfully reproduces the farmers’ clothing of the past and features unique details such as the leather belt embroidered with peacock feathers — a proud symbol of local identity still worn today during festivals and celebrations.
But Sarentino is not just tradition: it’s also home to exceptional craftsmanship, from hand-decorated leather suspenders to rough wool knitting and finely carved wooden objects — each a testament to skills handed down through generations.
Pure Nature and Restorative Relaxation
Val Sarentino is a paradise for mountain lovers. In summer, it offers endless hiking opportunities among alpine pastures, huts, and panoramic trails. In winter, its mountains turn white and become ideal for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and downhill runs in the ski area of Reinswald.
And if you’re looking for something truly magical, don’t miss a hike to the Stoanerne Mandln (the “Stone Men”) — mysterious piles of rocks perched atop Mount Schöneck, steeped in legend and offering breathtaking views.
Pure Nature and Alpine Wellbeing
Among the valley’s most precious treasures is the Swiss stone pine of Val Sarentino, from which the essential oil “Pinus Sarnerensis” is extracted — known for centuries for its beneficial properties. Here it’s affectionately called “the blessed oil” for its balsamic, toning, and relaxing effects — perfect after a long mountain walk.
A Valley to Experience All Year Round
Val Sarentino is perfect in every season: from the vivid colors of autumn to spring blooms, from summer days in alpine huts to the muffled silence of winter. Between one hike and another, let yourself be won over by the flavors of local cuisine: dumplings, venison goulash, smoked speck, and Strauben with cranberry jam — a true embrace of flavor and tradition.
