Vernago: The village between waters and eternal peaks

At an altitude of 1,700 metres, Vernago (Vernagt) is one of the most evocative and poetic places in Val Senales. The village overlooks the shores of the artificial Lake Vernago, framed by snow-capped peaks all year round and surrounded by an alpine landscape that seems straight out of a fairy tale.

Each season offers a different emotion here: the deep blue of the lake in summer, the golden reflections of autumn, the magic of snow in winter and the quiet rebirth of spring.

A story emerging from the waters

The beauty of Vernago hides a painful past. In the 1950s, a dam was built—initially 40 metres high and later raised to 65 metres—which led to the submersion of eight farmsteads. When the water level drops, you can still see the bell tower of the old church, a poignant symbol of a village sacrificed in the name of progress.

A story reminiscent of the more famous Lake Resia, yet in Vernago it is felt with the same depth and respect for memory.

Hiking among lakes, suspension bridges and glaciers

Vernago is also a perfect destination for hikers and mountain lovers.

Unmissable routes:

• Lake Vernago circuit: a scenic walk suitable for everyone, enriched by two suspension bridges that make the route even more captivating.
• Hike to the site where Ötzi was found: a challenging trek for experienced hikers that passes through the Val di Tisa and leads up to 3,000 metres on the Similaun, where the Iceman was discovered.

And if you love winter sports, from Vernago you can reach in just a few minutes the Maso Corto ski area, where thanks to the Val Senales Glacier you can ski all year round.

Sheep transhumance: The festival that enlivens autumn

Every September, Vernago becomes the stage for one of the most authentic and heartfelt events in Val Senales: the sheep transhumance. After spending the summer on Austrian alpine pastures, thousands of sheep return to the valley, crossing the mountain passes on foot, followed by shepherds and onlookers.

Their arrival is celebrated with a village festival filled with music, traditional dishes and togetherness, in an atmosphere that expresses the deep bond between people and the mountains.

Vernago is a place where the mountains tell stories, the water preserves memory, and every path leads to something authentic. A corner of South Tyrol to experience with all your senses.