The San Pietro Mezzomonte Waterfall: a hidden gem in the heart of the Valle Isarco valley
Image gallery: San Pietro Mezzomonte
Travelling through the Isarco Valley along the Brennero state road, you'll soon spot the commercial area of San Pietro Mezzomonte (Schrambach). The turn-off on the opposite side of the road leads up to the small village centre. At 600 metres above sea level, San Pietro Mezzomonte is the lowest-lying district of Velturno. From here, the slopes of the Isarco Valley continue to rise up to the Monte del Pascolo in the Sarentino Alps, which marks the boundary of the Velturno area.
San Pietro Mezzomonte is the site of the first documented mention of the Lords of Velturno, whose castle is said to have stood here. Today, the village has its own fire brigade and church and is particularly known for the surrounding nature. In addition to beautiful trails, especially attractive in spring and autumn during chestnut season, it is also home to the eponymous waterfall.
An impressive 63 metres, the stream plunges over a rocky edge into the depths, collecting in a small basin at the foot of the waterfall. The German name of this natural monument, which can be reached via a wooden bridge, is "Schrambacher Wasserfall".
The main village of Velturno can also be reached on foot from San Pietro Mezzomonte: The Törggelesteig leads past the waterfall and continues for about two hours, completing a circular hike via Giovignano to Velturno and back. A detour to Velturno Castle, a Renaissance building that was once the summer residence of the Bishops of Bressanone, is well worth the while.
