S?dtirol or Trentino – Alto Adige is a region in the north-eastern region of Italy, bordered by the Tyrol and Dolomites mountains (Natural World Unesco Heritage), Switzerland and Austria. Trentino – Alto Adige is a notoriously mountainous province, famous for its winter skiing and other snow sports and the perfect destination for eco-tourists. At an altitude of over 3,000 meters and comprising mainly of steep, wide glaciated valleys and tall jagged mountain peaks, it is an area of unpredictable weather and outstanding natural beauty.
The region has been the subject to many disputed border disagreements and changes in control over the centuries leading to this part of Italy having its own autonomy and unique character, recognising both Italian and German as its official languages.
The valleys of the S?dtirol province are extremely fertile and farmers here produce succulent tasting fruit and dairy goods plus some of Italy’s most tasty wines. This mountainous region is another area that benefits from hydroelectric power production from the rivers that tumble off the mountains. Much of this power is exported back into the national grid.
A popular tourist destination perfectly linking the peoples of central and southern Italy and Northern Europe who are looking for adventure in the outdoors. The summer months provide an excellent climate for walks and hiking, while its winter sports are amongst Italy’s best. There are many tour operators offering a chance at extreme Alpine activities, cycling tours around the area and the opportunity to sample the thrill of canoeing and white water rafting in the regions watercourses.
Since the governments relaxing of the B&B regulations there has been an explosion in rural agritourismo venues. Many of who offer simple green living at affordable prices and by using locally grown produce, renewable energy sources and traditional methods Italy’s agritourismo hotels are a natural for the eco-traveller.
The area is littered with old-fashioned “waals” channels built by previous generations to transport glacial water across the countryside to the olive groves, vineyards and orchards. Tracks alongside these now provide gentle pathways for the eco-tourist to cycle or walk and simply enjoy the surroundings.
Photo and slideshare thanks to altoadige_suedtirol_southtyrol’s on flickr
For activities and info about this area plase contact us at [email protected], e.g. Moonlight sledding in the Dolomites
Or for more information about Suedtirol Alto adige visit Suedtirol.info