Why Alto Adige Should Be On Your Italy Bucket List
Alto Adige, also known as South Tyrol, is a mountainous region located in the northernmost part of Italy, bordered by Austria and Switzerland to the North and an easy drive from Lake Garda and Venice to the South. Here's why you should go:
This area is often overlooked by tourists, save for the outdoorsy type who flock to the Dolomite mountains during summer and winter, however it is quickly becoming a hub for luxury Italian travel, and offers a stunning alpine landscape that sets itself apart from the regions many are used to like Tuscany and Amalfi. Sure, the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site in themselves, provide a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and climbing, but the region is also home to numerous high end thermal baths and spa resorts, has in recent years become home to some of Italy's most beautiful hotels, and is an epicenter of Northern Italian gastronomy and wine production.
Food and Wine
South Tyrol's history of Austrian, German, and Swiss influence is reflected in its cuisine, which features a mix of hearty meat dishes and dumplings, as well as a variety of local cheeses and cured meats like speck, a smoked and cured pork belly product traditionally seasoned with a blend of local spices and herbs such as juniper berry.
Schlutzkrapfen, another regional specialty, is a pasta dish that is made from a combination of flour, eggs, and spinach, and is typically filled with a mixture of cheese, potatoes, and bacon, and served in a brown butter sauce.
But beyond tradition, the region is quickly becoming a hotspot for gastronomic innovation, boasting 19 Michelin starred restaurants making up a total of 26 total Michelin stars!
The region is also known for its wine production, particularly for its white wines made from the local Gewürztraminer and Pinot Grigio grapes in recent years.
However it has a long history of red wine production and a strong terroir that has led to a number of Italian wine awards and accolades. The influences from Germany and Austria in particular make for a truly unique wine culture, and solidifies the region as a must visit destination for any Italian wine lovers.
Luxury Accommodation
Luxury spas, 5 star dining, breathtaking views, and understated alpine elegance. What more could you want from a trip the beautiful mountains of Northern Italy.
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