Apples and grapes thrive in Laives, in the Adige Valley near Bolzano, earning it the nickname “Apple Town”
Just south of Bolzano, on the edge of the Alpine Town, lies the municipality of Laives. Once a Rhaetian settlement, Laives is now a small town. Until the 20th century, it remained a small farming village. Only its proximity to the regional capital allowed the municipality to grow to its present size.
A tunnel and a bypass ease traffic for the many commuters who travel daily from the Bassa Atesina area to Bolzano. Laives is one of the few municipalities in South Tyrol with a predominantly Italian-speaking population. In the main town and the districts of Pineta di Laives, San Giacomo, and La Costa, the various language groups live together harmoniously.
Laives also has surprises for active holidaymakers: You can hike the Laives High Route, visit the Madonna di Pietralba Pilgrimage Site known as Maria Weissenstein in German, or relax at the outdoor swimming pool.
Laives is particularly well-situated for cyclists. Mountain bikers can reach Nova Ponente and the Dolomites via the Monte Largo mountain. For a more leisurely ride, cycle through the orchards along the Bassa Atesina Cycle Path to Trento or Bolzano. If you choose Bolzano, you can continue on the South Tyrolean cycle network to the towns of Merano or Bressanone.
Cultural highlights include the Laives Carnival, one of the most important in Trentino-South Tyrol, Laives Rock at the Town Hall Square, and the Köfelefest, featuring Laives music star Rudy Giovannini. In autumn, the taverns on the Monte Largo and in La Costa invite you to Toerggelen.
