© IDM South Tyrol-Alto Adige/Armin Terzer

Hardly any feeling can be compared to the pride and wonder of the moment when you reach the top of a mountain. This indescribable emotion of having achieved something, overcoming hurdles, withstanding exhaustion, not having given up. At the same time, there's no better way to spend time in nature. High up in the mountains you feel a unique connection to the imposing surroundings, majestic and peaceful at the same time. With its natural diversity, South Tyrol is an El Dorado for active visitors looking for adrenaline and a sense of achievement. Whether you are a beginner or in a league with professionals, the South Tyrolean mountains offer challenges for every level.

Up high

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The first association with South Tyrol is undoubtedly the mountains - and there are plenty of them here! Between the Ortles Group, the Ötztal Alps and the Dolomites, to name just a few, gifted mountaineers are spoiled for choice. But no matter what you choose, you'll rave about the unbeatable views. It's a good idea to charge your phone before you set off, because you definitely don't want to miss these photo opportunities.

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If you like hiking, you can look forward to green meadows, dense forests and one or the other crystal clear lake. Not to mention alpine huts and shelters, which also make the breaks with regional delicacies a highlight. But not all hiking routes in South Tyrol are the same - depending on the region, you can expect entirely different terrain. For wide hiking trails and alpine meadows, for example, the Prato Piazza in the Three Peaks Dolomite region is recommended. Glaciated peaks can be found in the Ortler area, among others.

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Those looking for a little more thrill can try their hand at the numerous climbing options. Definitely not for the faint-hearted, but nevertheless (or maybe even because of that) a pastime like no other. South Tyrol is an incredibly diverse climbing area, with climbing gardens, via ferratas and also climbing gyms to appeal to everyone. From the Ortler area to the Vinschgau and the Dolomites, over 100 climbing gardens and over 1000 routes of all levels of difficulty await. Here you can put your skills to the test and possibly discover a new passion for yourself.

... Quickly going down ...

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As early as the 19th century, daredevils developed special bikes for off-road thrills. Even today, mountain biking, also known as MTB for short, is one of the most exciting ways to spend time in nature and explore a region in a slightly different way. South Tyrol is a true paradise in this regard - a higher density of MTB tours for every requirement can hardly be found in the entire Alpine region. In fact, South Tyrol was one of the first Alpine regions to comprehensively regulate mountain biking (in cooperation with the Farmers' Union). Thus, the best conditions were created early on to provide passionate bikers with a great infrastructure. From wide forest trails over hilly low mountain ranges to just below the glacier, there's the right route for everyone.

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Beginners will appreciate the signposted tours for all levels and can thus pedal well prepared and above all safely. For example, the Vinschgau Valley and the Alpe di Siusi are exceptionally well suited with their variety to get a taste of mountain sports. Advanced bikers can test their limits in Val Gardena, among other places, and really work up a sweat.

And the relaxation at the end

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Of course, enthusiastic athletes also deserve a rest. A constantly growing trend in the South Tyrolean mountains is the millennia-old practice of yoga, including meditation sessions; a refreshing cool-down can be found, especially in the warm season, at one of the fantastically beautiful lakes with which South Tyrol is truly blessed. Highlights such as the Pragser Wildsee or the Kalterer See shouldn't be missed by visitors to this beautiful region.