The legendary Castelchiaro Castle towers majestically above Campi al Lago and Lake Caldaro
Klughammer (Campi al Lago) lies on the eastern shore of Lake Caldaro and belongs to Caldaro on the Wine Road. However, it is administered by Vadena, located on the other side of the wooded Monte di Mezzo. The sheltered location between the lake and the mountain slope makes Campi al Lago a special place, impressive for its blossoms in spring and vibrant colours in autumn.
High above the rooftops, Castelchiaro rises among the trees. Its construction is thought to have taken place before 1200 AD, though this is not documented. As a result, many legends surround it. The remains of the main palace, with frescoes from the 15th century, are well preserved and accessible via a metal staircase. Seating areas in front of the ruins invite you to linger, and from the walls, the view opens onto the lake - a magnificent panorama that changes with the seasons.
A little further on, along the road over the Passo di Novale al Varco saddle towards Vadena, you'll find another ruin, Varco Castle, though it is not visible from the lake. The short hike to the Castelchiaro Fortress begins at the car park above Campi al Lago. From there, you can also reach the Horse Teeth, a unique rock formation, and the Hot Air Springs.
In the opposite direction, on the southern shore of the lake, another destination awaits: the Lake Caldaro Biotope. This reed belt, an important nesting site for rare birds and marsh creatures, is the largest preserved wetland between the main ridge of the Alps and the Po Valley.
