Lana: The Orchard of South Tyrol – where culture, nature and tradition meet
Just 7 km from Merano, surrounded by a landscape that stretches from the gentle cultivated hills to the high Alpine peaks, lies the town of Lana, also known as “the orchard of South Tyrol”. Its territory extends from 250 to 1,910 m above sea level, offering an extraordinary variety of experiences, views, and treasures to discover.
The three souls of Lana: Lower, Middle and Upper
Lower Lana: Art, faith and fruit growing
In the heart of the valley, at 300 m a.s.l., Lower Lana preserves some of the town’s most emblematic sites:
- The Parish Church of Santa Maria Assunta, home to the famous wooden altar by Hans Schnatterpeck, one of the largest in Europe.
- The Church of Santa Margherita, a Romanesque gem with three apses.
- The South Tyrolean Museum of Fruit Growing, where you can discover the history and techniques behind the farming activity that made Lana famous.
- And for sports enthusiasts, the Golfclub Lana “Gutshof Brandis”, featuring a 9-hole course nestled among apple orchards.
Middle Lana: Between spirituality and railway tradition
Middle Lana is best known for:
- The Church of the Holy Cross, built in the early decades of the 20th century.
- The Apfelexpress, a historic electric locomotive from the Lana–Postal–Merano railway line, once used to transport apples.
Upper Lana: Castles and panoramic views
Situated above the valley floor, Upper Lana welcomes you with:
- The Capuchin Monastery, a place of silence and spirituality.
- The majestic Braunsberg Castle, former noble residence of the Counts of Trapp, surrounded by cypresses and guarding the entrance to the Ultimo Valley.
The mountain hamlets: Foiana and Pavicolo
Foiana: A glimpse into the rural past
At an altitude of 700 m, Foiana feels like a place suspended in time, where you can discover the roots of South Tyrolean rural life. Visit the Farmers’ Museum, which showcases objects and tools from everyday pre-industrial life.
Pavicolo: A postcard-perfect view
At 1,100 m a.s.l., Pavicolo is a peaceful mountain village offering breathtaking views over the Ultimo Valley, the Adige Valley and the Dolomites. Very close to Mount San Vigilio, it’s the ideal starting point for hikes, relaxation and wellness-oriented holidays.
Why visit Lana?
Among authentic villages steeped in history, sacred architecture and enchanting landscapes, the “orchard of South Tyrol” never ceases to amaze. Savor South Tyrolean tradition and experience genuine emotions surrounded by nature. Lana is waiting for you.
