Valle Aurina (Ahrntal) Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to the mountain village in South Tyrol
Table of Contents
Valle Aurina
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Latest page update: 24 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The town of Valle Aurina is situated within the Province of South Tyrol and has a population of around 6,000 residents. It stands at an elevation of 1,054 metres above sea level.
Places of interest nearby include Campo Tures, Brunico, Rasun di Sotto and Lake Braies while the recommended accommodation for Valle Aurina is the Aparthotel Panorama in Gais. |
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Discover Valle Aurina
Valle Aurina is a picturesque valley located in the far north of South Tyrol, nestled between the Zillertal Alps to the north and the Vedrette di Ries mountain range to the south. The valley is characterised by its serene, unspoiled natural beauty, with lush meadows, dense forests, and a backdrop of towering peaks. Valle Aurina is home to several small, traditional villages, each offering a glimpse into the region’s rural Alpine lifestyle. Known for its tranquillity and fresh mountain air, the valley is a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of busier tourist areas.
The valley is a popular base for outdoor activities year-round. In the winter, Valle Aurina offers access to the nearby Klausberg and Speikboden ski resorts, which are known for their well-maintained slopes, making it a great destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The area also offers opportunities for snowshoeing, winter hiking, and tobogganing, with scenic trails that wind through snow-covered forests and past frozen waterfalls. During the warmer months, the valley becomes a haven for hikers and mountain bikers, with a variety of trails that lead to alpine lakes, meadows, and remote mountain huts. The area is also ideal for climbers, with numerous routes catering to different levels of experience.
Close by, the town of Brunico offers a blend of cultural and historical attractions, including its medieval castle, lively town centre, and museums. The Vedrette di Ries-Aurina Nature Park, which stretches through much of the valley, is another highlight, offering visitors the chance to explore its protected wildlife areas, deep forests, and impressive mountain landscapes. To the north, the charming town of Vipiteno provides access to the nearby Alps, along with a blend of Italian and Tyrolean influences in its architecture and culture. Valle Aurina, with its combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and proximity to larger towns, provides a perfect base for exploring the northern Dolomites.
The valley is a popular base for outdoor activities year-round. In the winter, Valle Aurina offers access to the nearby Klausberg and Speikboden ski resorts, which are known for their well-maintained slopes, making it a great destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The area also offers opportunities for snowshoeing, winter hiking, and tobogganing, with scenic trails that wind through snow-covered forests and past frozen waterfalls. During the warmer months, the valley becomes a haven for hikers and mountain bikers, with a variety of trails that lead to alpine lakes, meadows, and remote mountain huts. The area is also ideal for climbers, with numerous routes catering to different levels of experience.
Close by, the town of Brunico offers a blend of cultural and historical attractions, including its medieval castle, lively town centre, and museums. The Vedrette di Ries-Aurina Nature Park, which stretches through much of the valley, is another highlight, offering visitors the chance to explore its protected wildlife areas, deep forests, and impressive mountain landscapes. To the north, the charming town of Vipiteno provides access to the nearby Alps, along with a blend of Italian and Tyrolean influences in its architecture and culture. Valle Aurina, with its combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and proximity to larger towns, provides a perfect base for exploring the northern Dolomites.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the beautiful mountain trails and enjoy breathtaking views of the Dolomites and the Zillertal Alps. The Valle Aurina is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
- Speikboden and Klausberg Ski Areas: During the winter months, the valley becomes a winter wonderland, offering excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities at the Speikboden and Klausberg ski resorts.
- Traditional Festivals: Experience the local culture and traditions by participating in traditional festivals, such as the "Schlossfest" in the Predoi Castle or "Törggelen" in the autumn.
- Lutago Waterfalls: Visit the Cascate di Lutago, a stunning waterfall located near Lutago, offering a refreshing natural spectacle.
- Mining Tradition: Learn about the region's mining heritage by visiting the Copper Mine in Prettau, which offers guided tours and insights into the history of mining in the area.
- Local Cuisine: Savour the delicious South Tyrolean cuisine at the valley's restaurants and inns, offering specialties such as speck (cured ham), knödel (dumplings), and strudel.
- Alpine Villages: Explore the picturesque alpine villages scattered throughout the valley, each with its unique charm and cultural heritage.
Comune di Valle Aurina
Gemeinde Ahrntal
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Province: Bolzano
Region: Trentino Alto Adige South Tyrol Population: 5,958 (in 2024 - source) Size: 187 km² Elevation: 1,054 metres Close by: Campo Tures, Brunico, Rasun di Sotto, Lake Braies Recommended accommodation: Aparthotel Panorama (21 km) |
Valle Aurina Gallery
Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations
1. Lake Braies
2. Trento
3. Bolzano
4. Val Gardena
5. Riva del Garda
6. Lake Tenno
7. Bressanone
8. Rovereto
9. Glorenza
10. San Candido
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol
1. Lake Braies
2. Trento
3. Bolzano
4. Val Gardena
5. Riva del Garda
6. Lake Tenno
7. Bressanone
8. Rovereto
9. Glorenza
10. San Candido
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol
