Chasing #RaysOfLight in South-Tyrol
A few weeks ago I got invited by South-Tyrol to spend some days in their beautiful region. First things first: South-Tyrol is Italy’s Northernmost province and is not to be mistaken with Tirol, an area in Austria! I’d say South-Tyrol is most known for the Dolomites, which are probably the most beautiful mountains in the world and part of UNESCO world heritage. After visiting this area I can confirm that, apart from the mountains, the food and people are great as well.
Back to the main story line: I explored different locations for 3 days, in light of the #RaysOfLight campaign, where South-Tyrol is welcoming tourists back to the region after the recent Covid pandemic.
Upon arrival, the weather predictions weren’t great, but I remained positive as the weather in the mountains is hard to predict and can rapidly change. I received a warm welcome from my friend Stefan Mahlknecht, who is a photographer and hotel owner. His hotel probably has the prettiest pool I've ever seen, so on my first morning I immediately went for a swim and after that, Stefan showed me around his hometown area. Together, we visited several beautiful places such as the Earth Pyramids and the Lebenberg castle.
Although the weather was terrible, the views still impressed me a lot.
On my second day I explored the Val Gardena area mostly by E-mountainbike, which proved a great way to get around. Sadly the weather was terrible (heavy snowfall and wind) so we had to turn around quickly, but I can only imagine how nice it must be in summer: making your way down the mountains on your bike with blue skies and huge peaks surrounding you, better luck next time.
In the evening it did clear up enough for me to watch the sunset. With the last sunlight hitting the peaks of the Sassolungo and the moon rising behind the rugged Dolomite peaks, this was a great opportunity to take some photos.
The same sun woke me up on my last morning and when I checked the views from my hotel window, I was greeted with blue skies, the perfect weather for the hike that was planned out!
Together with Valentina from the Tourism office, I hiked the Adolf Munkel trail towards the Gschagenhardt Alm and enjoyed my meal in-between the Crocus flowers, which were blossoming at that time. Such a beautiful sight.
After lunch, we headed back down and I explored the Val di Funes a bit by myself, catching sunset over St. Magdalena, a picturesque town tucked away safely in the valley. The perfect way to end a beautiful trip.
Thanks a lot to Visit South-Tyrol for inviting me over! If there are any regrets, it’s probably that the trip didn't last longer so I hope I can make my way back and do some hiking and camping soon!