Magical places like Lake Valdurna and the “Stone Men” can be found amidst the 140 Alpine peaks that surround the Val Sarentino
One municipality in South Tyrol covers an entire valley: The Val Sarentino stretches from the outskirts of Bolzano to the Pennes Pass, and therefore covers a length of 50 km between the Sarentino Gorge and the Sarentino Alps. No wonder that it is the largest municipality in South Tyrol in terms of area, with its many districts, hamlets and farm groups. Among guests it is known for its tranquillity and unspoilt nature, and highly valued by the local population for relaxation in nature away from the hustle and bustle of the hotspots. The Talvera flows through it, giving its name to the Talvera Meadows and making Bolzano the Talvera Town. It enters the Isarco.
Sarentino can be reached via three routes: from the basin of Bolzano through the Sarentino Gorge, via a small mountain road from the Renon High Plateau to Vangabassa, and from Vipiteno via the Passo Pennes. In summer, this mountain pass is a popular excursion destination with hiking trails between flowering carpets of alpine roses and outdoor activities along mountain streams. During the winter months, the panoramic road over the pass is then closed and gives way to the cross-country skiers who can be seen on the tracks in the Pennes Valley. Still today, the municipality and the valley have a strong rural character, known for quill embroidery, a craft for which peacock feathers are used, and the Sarentino "Reggele" makers, the pipe carvers.
Natural places like the "Stone Men" (cairns), Lake Valdurna and the Sagbach Valley, also known as Rio della Sega Valley, attract hikers, mountain bikers and families who enjoy places like the Urle Path with its themed stations. In between, there are gourmet restaurants and museums such as the one in the Rohrerhaus farmstead, which tells about the valley and its special features. During the cold winter months, when the Sarntal Valley Alpine Advent is celebrated in the main village, the Reinswald Skiing Area with its ski slopes, downhill runs and the toboggan run opens its doors.
