The Aurina Valley and its unspoiled nature - the centre of old traditions
The Aurina Valley is one of the most beautiful valleys in South Tyrol. The original character of agriculture and nature has been preserved more than in any other region of South Tyrol. The locals, workers, livestock breeders and farmers strongly preserve their old traditions. Here you can admire handcrafted wooden masks and bobbin lace crafts.
The mines in Predoi were historically the main source of income in the Aurina Valley region. Gradually the area became a tourist destination, when friends of the Counts of Sternbach, the owner of the mine, chose to spend their summer holidays in the village of Cadipietra. The first alpine guides accompanied hikers up to the surrounding peaks in 1870. Soon the first hotels and guesthouses opened. This huge nature resort gained popularity with the development of tourism, and has maintained its popularity despite two world wars.
The Aurina Valley villages of Cadipietra, Luttago, Riobianco, San Giacomo, San Giovanni and San Pietro are all worth a visit. In each of these villages you can admire numerous perfectly preserved farms, which are inhabited by the "Toula", the valley inhabitants. The locals still speak a harsh local dialect, and the special cuisine and old traditions seem to live on forever.
Apart from skiing at the Klausberg and Speikboden ski resorts, you can try canyoning, ice climbing and snow rafting. The high-alpine pastures and nature trails in the area are ideal for hiking and walking, and enjoying the fresh air and the nearby Vedrette di Ries-Aurina Nature Park.