South Tyrol is the only region in Italy where the majority of the population speaks German as their mother tongue.
So not only do you get to experience another part of Italy, but you also get a taste of Austria in the mix. It’s a travellers dream to be able to be in two countries at once and this is definitely one of them. Not long ago I was invited to visit Kaltern in Bolzano, Italy and I thought I would give you 5 reasons why you should go visit it.
1. The view
The view of the mountains is absolutely stunning. In this town you’re able to not only enjoy the scenery, but you can also go for a dip in the lake. On one side you have the landscape of Italy and on the other Austria. Here one finds the famous Dolomites and large important ski resorts near the Austrian border.
2. Devils night
Around Christmas is a great time to go. The time I arrived they did this weird Devil’s night. Where the locals dressed up as Devils and sold Glühwein. It’s mainly for the kids the Devil night but it’s a good craic.
3. Pizza sticks
For the first time in my life I tried a wood fired pizza on a stick. It was a very bizarre experience but what it is basically is they make the dough, put cheese on it (bacon for extra) and then they put foil on one side and then roll it onto a stick. You then take it to a fire and cook it yourself.
4. Wine
The wineries and the wine here is amazing. Make sure you visit the outskirts of Bolzano to ensure you get the true beauty of the place. It is a renowned wine producer – the three most known local types are Lagrein and Magdalener both from Bolzano and Gewürztraminer from Tramin.
5. Feel like you’re in Germany and Italy at the same time
It’s one of those places where you can feel like you’re in two countries at one time. Not many locals speak Italian as they speak their own dialect of Italian and German. It’s interesting to see how the culture is formed, you really have to pinch yourself to remember you’re actually still in Italy.
