A golden yellow sea of leaves lies over the slopes of the southern Alpine region, juicy fruits such as apples and grapes glow in the sunlight. When autumn arrives here on the South Tyrolean Wine Road, the thousands and thousands of vines and fruit trees are transformed into a picturesque natural spectacle. No wonder that the picturesque landscape around the provincial capital of Bolzano and the 15 charming wine villages becomes an absolute place of longing for many visitors at this time of year.

Three lakes, 16 villages, one wine route

The South Tyrolean Wine Road is 150 kilometers long and stretches in a breathtaking valley from Nals to Salurn, along the provincial capital of Bolzano through the towns of Terlan, Andriano, Appiano, Caldaro on the lake, Pfatten, Branzoll, Tramin, Ora, Montan, Kurtatsch, Neumarkt, Margreid and Kurtinig. 

© TV Eppan - Helmuth Rier

Fantastic panorama

Historic castles and palaces rise up from the vineyards, the Alps tower into the blue sky in the background and the first peaks are covered in a white blanket of snow. Lakes such as Lake Kaltern, the warmest bathing lake in the Alps, the Monticolo lakes and Lake Fennberg break through the colorful flora and invite you to linger and sunbathe. While it is getting cooler in other regions, the mild Mediterranean climate lingers a little longer here. The best way to discover the beauty of nature is on gentle hikes or e-bike tours. You can immerse yourself in South Tyrol's wine culture on excellent themed trails and enjoy some time out in wineries, inns, huts and Michelin-starred restaurants along the way, where delicious wine tastings can be enjoyed in a pleasant atmosphere.

The soul of the wine region

The range of fine wines is accompanied by regional specialties from traditional Alpine recipes, which are complemented by Mediterranean flavors. Traditional winegrowing and grape harvesting in the autumn months on the South Tyrolean Wine Road dates back over 2,500 years and is still celebrated to this day. Gewürztraminer, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir are the best-known grape varieties in the region. In addition, the indigenous varieties Lagrein and Vernatsch, from which the Bolzano St. Magdalener and Kalterersee wines are made, produce genuine quality wines. No matter what you are in the mood for: The South Tyrolean Wine Road is the birthplace of various award-winning white and red wines for every taste.

IDM South Tyrol - Alex Filz

Living hospitality

For centuries, it has shaped the Alpine-Mediterranean landscape and the country's culture, giving them that special something extra. Because it is the most important source of income for many winegrowing families, tourism plays a major role in the region. Toasting with (new) friends is best done in traditional wineries, welcoming inns, historic castles and manor houses as well as gourmet restaurants and at exciting events. 

The cultural fall

The golden autumn season is rounded off by a whole series of event highlights. For the "WineSounds" estates, castles, palaces and monasteries are transformed into venues for concerts that showcase the region's wines. The musical events, some featuring internationally renowned ensembles, will take place for the second time in 2024 between mid-October and early November. As part of the "Autumn Experience"another series of events offered until November 24, guests can learn more about wines, their producers and the villages where they have been produced for centuries.

© South Tyrolean Wine Route Association

For further information: suedtirol.info/wine-road  ′