Autumn hikes in South Tyrol

On the Rittner Horn

To the northeast of Bolzano, between the rivers Isarco and Talvera, lies the extensive Rittner Hochfläche. The area covers around 11,000 hectares, ranging from the valley floor to the alpine region, and reaches its highest point at the Rittner Horn (or Oberhorn).

Hiking paradise Rittner Horn: Tour tips

The easiest, shortest and therefore most family-friendly tour is the Panoramaweg, which leads from the mountain station to the Unterhorn Haus and is even suitable for strollers in about 1.5 hours. On the Panoramaweg, the Runde Tisch, a rest area designed by artist Franz Messner, invites you to linger.

A little more demanding but no less rewarding is the 2.5-hour circular hike Schwarzseespitze - Rittner Horn - Schwarzseespitze. From the mountain station, head north to the Unterhorn and continue to the summit of the Rittner Horn, where you will find the shelter of the Italian Alpine Club and be rewarded with a magnificent panoramic view. The return leads along the Güterweg past a small stable used by shepherds, to the Unterhorn and Schwarzseespitze. Here, you only have to tackle a 200-meter difference in altitude.

At the Rittner Horn, you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama and the peaks seem within reach even from kilometers away.

In Ritten, there is a wide selection of accommodations that cater to all preferences and budgets: hotels, guesthouses, vacation rentals.

My absolute favorite place in Ritten is the Wanderhotel Regina. Of course, I love hiking and am always looking for new mountain challenges on vacation. So a hiking hotel is just perfect. In addition to a very extensive weekly program, you can choose from at least 5 guided hikes every week, or simply join each one. In addition, the hiking hotel offers cool inclusive services for hikers and explorers:

• Detailed hiking map

• Rental backpack and rental telescopic poles

• Hiking info corner with maps, tour tips, nature and culture books

• Shoe drying and storage room

• Laundry service for an extra charge

• Underground parking for your cars with a lockable gate

In addition to these great hiking extras, the 3-star Hotel Regina in Ritten has a cozy wellness area. After a strenuous day in the mountains, there's nothing better than jumping into a heated pool and treating yourself to a relaxing time in the sauna. However, the highlight of the hotel is the fabulous cuisine.

The day begins with a wonderful Kaiserfrühstück that leaves nothing to be desired. In the afternoon, tasty cakes are served, where you can help yourself to your heart's content, and in the evening, there is a fabulous 5-course dinner every day. Look forward to classic South Tyrolean cuisine with selected delicacies, excellent wines, and homemade specialties from the Ritten region in South Tyrol.