Valle Isarco: The Heart of South Tyrol Between Nature, History and Relaxation
The Valle Isarco is one of South Tyrol’s most fascinating and diverse valleys. Stretching for 80 km from the source of the Isarco River at the Brenner Pass down to its confluence with the Adige River in Bolzano, it crosses a variety of striking landscapes where glaciers, vineyards, medieval villages, and natural parks coexist in perfect harmony.
A landscape that changes with latitude
In the north, between the Stubai Alps and the Zillertal Alps, the valley features imposing mountains, ancient glaciers, and a pure alpine atmosphere. Moving southward, beyond the episcopal city of Bressanone, the climate becomes milder and sunnier, revealing terraced vineyards, neatly arranged orchards, and villages with pastel-coloured façades.
The Valle Isarco divides two distinct mountain worlds: the Sarentino and Stubai Alps to the west, and the Dolomites and Zillertal Alps to the east — offering a unique variety of landscapes across the Alpine arc.
Nature to experience: Between parks and thermal springs
Puez-Odle Nature Park
In the heart of the valley lies the majestic Puez-Odle Nature Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that protects one of the Dolomites’ most iconic areas. The visitor centre is located in Santa Maddalena in Funes, a starting point for unforgettable hikes through alpine pastures, forests, and postcard-perfect panoramas.
Brenner Thermal Baths
In the northern part of the valley, don’t miss the Brenner Thermal Baths, where you can visit the natural thermal spring that rises at 22°C — the warmest in South Tyrol. A perfect place to recharge after a day on the slopes or the trails.
Villages to Discover: Between Culture and Tradition
- Bressanone, the valley’s main town and South Tyrol’s oldest city, is lively and full of history and sacred art.
- Vipiteno, once a mining town, boasts an elegant old centre and a strong alpine character.
- Chiusa, listed since 2002 among “Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages,” is a medieval gem to explore slowly.
These towns are ideal for those who love to alternate between nature and culture — from high-altitude hikes to visits to museums and castles.
Summer or Winter? Valle Isarco is perfect all year round
Thanks to its six ski areas, the valley is a popular destination for winter sports, with modern lifts, well-groomed slopes, and spectacular toboggan runs. But in the warmer months, Valle Isarco transforms into a hiking paradise.
The cable cars, also operating in summer, take you to sunny plateaus, themed trails, and extraordinary panoramic viewpoints.
Valle Isarco awaits you
Whether you’re seeking an active holiday among the peaks, a romantic escape among vineyards and medieval towns, or simply days of pure relaxation amid nature and culture, Valle Isarco will amaze you in every season.
Here, between the authenticity of the mountains and the warmth of South Tyrolean hospitality, you can slow down, breathe deeply, and live experiences that will stay with you. Your next adventure starts here.
