Set Forth’s “Sud Tirol Superlatives” — a glimpse into everything this region has to offer adventurers

Sud-Tirol is Italy’s northern-most province. Culturally, the region shares a vibrant cultural heritage with neighboring Austria — German is the leading language! Recreationally, the region is second to none. White-gravel trails meander through alpine meadows, connecting bucolic valleys and peaceful villages, and stunning views of jagged peaks await around every corner.

With so much to offer all kinds of adventurers, it is no surprise that Sud-Tirol is a popular destination for Set Forth clients (we’ve planned four trips to the Dolomites in the last two months!). Here are a few of our favorites in this amazing region.

Best Alpine Hut — Rifugio Fanes
Whether you’re hiking or biking or skiing, the alpine huts scattered across the Dolomites are a highlight of any outdoor adventure in Sud Tirol. Generally, our favorite hut is whichever one is most convenient for our next strudel and espresso. If we had to choose a favorite, the amazing restaurant, warm hospitality, and helpful modern amenities (including a dedicated gear-drying room) of Rifugio Fanes make it our pick.

Best “Hidden Gem” — Val di Funes
Tucked between larger valleys, where famous ski resorts draw tourists throughout the year, Val di Funes is a quieter, simpler option for visitors willing to get off the beaten track. The valley’s villages are tranquil, its mountain views are as dramatic as any, and the trails that wind high above the valley are among the best in the world.

Best Mid-Hike Snack — Fresh Strudel
South Tirol’s German and Austrian cultural roots present themselves in countless ways across the region, not the least of which is the ubiquity of homemade strudel. And, while we love tucking into a nice strudel at a bakery, we adore diving into a fresh strudel at an alpine hut for a mid-morning hiking break.

Best “Base Camp” — Val Gardena
Val Gardena’s two main villages offer the adventure traveler anything they could possibly desire: front-door access to world-class hiking, stellar mountain biking routes (with rentals available!), and plenty of bakeries and restaurants to fuel the adventure. Seiser Alm (Alpe di Siusi), high above the valley floor, is the highest and largest alpine pasture in Europe, and a perfect spot for mellower, family-friendly walks.

Best Road — Stelvio Pass
The Stelvio Pass, on the western edge of Sud-Tirol, is the second highest paved pass in Europe — its 48 iconic hairpin turns bring travelers to 2,758 meters above sea level. The pass is a popular spot for motorists (Porsche used to test new sports cars on its challenging curves), skiers and hikers, and of course road cyclists. Whether you’re riding the pass yourself, or just driving up in a car, we suggest a stop at Berghotel Franzenshöhe for some fresh espresso and a pastry.