Safety Park, Campi al Lago on Lake Caldaro, and Varco Castle - all united in Vadena near Bolzano
Image gallery: Vadena
Vadena is more extensive than you might think. The municipality includes the Safety Park, the driving safety centre in Ischia Frizzi on the outskirts of Bolzano, as well as the houses in Campi al Lago on the eastern shore of Lake Caldaro. The Monte di Mezzo mountain separates the main village of Vadena from Lake Caldaro and the Monticolo Lakes.
Via the Vadena Trail, called Pfattner Steig, you can cross the ridge and reach the other side - particularly enjoyable in summer when you can jump into the cool water. The hiking areas in the Bassa Atesina, including Castelfeder and Aldino-Redagno, are also within easy reach. Surrounded by the lush green of apple orchards and forests, the other small hamlets extend below the steep porphyry cliffs of Vadena.
Nestled between the road and a narrow ditch, you'll find peace and quiet here: Birti with its solitary Romanesque bell tower, Caneve, Carnel, Masetta, Gmund, Mover, Piccolongo and Stadio-Castelvarco with the Laimburg Agricultural School and Research Centre. This is also where you'll find the well-known Felsenkeller, the Rock Cellar, where the provincial government holds official receptions for organisations such as music bands and volunteer fire brigades.
Explore the area on foot or by bike. The Bassa Atesina Cycle Path starts in Bolzano, leads over the Adige bridge into Ischia Frizzi, and continues through Vadena southwards. Fancy more leisure activities? The Safety Park, with its 1-kilometre-long go-kart track, Supermoto and Pitbike track, as well as the motocross track, is ideal for an action-packed afternoon.
In neighbouring town of Bolzano - just 14 kilometres away - museums, theatres, cinemas and shops await. The bus will take you to the provincial capital via Laives or Bronzolo.
