Lagundo: A Green Balcony over Merano — History, Nature and Tradition
Overlooking the breathtaking panorama of Merano, Lagundo and its hamlets — Lagundo di Sopra, Riomolino, Plars di Mezzo, Plars di Sopra, Foresta and Velloi — offer one of the most stunning views in South Tyrol. Here, among orderly vineyards and fragrant orchards, time slows down and nature invites you to walk, breathe and explore.
Walking Along the Ancient Water Channels
Lagundo is the perfect starting point for hikes along the ancient irrigation channels (the famous Waalwege), gentle forest walks and adventures in the Tessa Group Nature Park. Every trail invites you to connect with the mountains and experience the landscape with all your senses.
Hidden Treasures: Churches, Culture and Beer
The Maria Steinach Convent and the Church of St. Joseph
Two unmissable stops for architecture lovers: the Maria Steinach Convent, a place of peace and contemplation, and the modern Church of St. Joseph, designed by Willy Gutweniger, who skilfully combined tradition and contemporary design in perfect harmony.
The Forst Brewery
In the hamlet of Foresta, you’ll find one of South Tyrol’s finest gems: the Forst Brewery, founded in 1857. Here you can discover the secrets of beer production, visit the historic facility and taste craft beers made with pure water from Mount San Giuseppe.
Lagundo’s Historic Churches
Lagundo is home to several religious treasures that tell stories of faith and history through the centuries:
- Church of Saints Hippolytus and Erhard: with Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque elements, it is a true time capsule.
- Church of the Holy Trinity: built in 1742 and lovingly restored by local settlers at the end of the 19th century.
- Church of St. Ulrich: first mentioned in 1493, though its origins are even older.
- Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus: erected in 1889 on the foundations of an older church dedicated to Our Lady of the Snows.
Traces of the Past: From the Roman Bridge to Prehistoric Worship
- The Roman bridge abutment and stone embankment: works commissioned by Empress Maria Theresa of Austria in 1776 to protect the area from Adige River floods.
- The Menhirs: mysterious stones dating back over 3,000 years, now displayed as faithful reproductions in front of the Tourist Office.
- The “Schalensteine” (cup-marked stones): engraved boulders linked to early Christian or prehistoric rites, scattered along scenic paths such as Schludenstein, Saxner and Birbameggweg.
Lagundo offers breathtaking views in every season, with a rich heritage that runs deep in its history and art. Discover the unspoiled nature and unique flavours of this land, where craft beer and local produce tell the story of true South Tyrolean tradition.
