It took a few days to get my bearings in Alto Adige. As the northernmost part of Italy , the region, also called South Tyrol, straddles the Austrian border but is proudly autonomous. I ordered negronis during aperitivo hour to which I was thanked with “danke” ; I craved pasta come dinner, but was introduced to a regional dumpling called knödel ; and wineries are interchangeably referred to as the Italian cantina or German kelleri .
It was all fascinating and added to the singularity of this lesser-traversed region of a country better known for its rolling hills, pristine beaches, and world-famous historical sites. The region’s overlooked charm is somewhat surprising, considering its prime location in the foothills of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage mountain range in the northern Italian Alps. Perhaps most recognized for some of the world’s best skiing, the five main cities in the region—Bolzano, Meran, Breixen, Sterzing, and Bruneck—all situate you within an hour of 10,000-foot peaks.
Yet Alto Adige is undoubtedly a year-round destination, with unparalleled access to the natural world. There’s mountaineering, biking , and nearly 10,000 miles of signposted hiking trails that meander you through medieval castles, working farms, and high-Alpine routes. For the less active, the region incorporates mountain herbs and botanicals into its coveted spa culture.
And no matter the time of year, there’s always wine: Alto Adige contributes one percent to Italy’s.