Situated between the Southern Alps and Venice and dominated by the spectacular Dolomites, the northern Italian province of Trentino boasts an amazing natural environment that will grab your attention and not let it go. The region offers an enticing mix of scintillating scenery, endless outdoor activities, intriguing local culture, and wholesome flavors. This is one of those rare places where you can breathe in the fresh air and experience a natural high along with an uplifted enthusiasm for life.
An advantage of the spectacular mountain scenery is that along with the mountains come valleys, rivers, and lakes – and Trentino is blessed with a stunning array of 297 gorgeous lakes. Best known is Lake Garda, a watersports paradise loved by sailors, windsurfers, kite surfers, and kayakers. Lake Ledro is legendary for its crystal-clear waters, while Lake Molveno, beneath the towering Brenta Dolomites, is regularly nominated for ‘Best Lake in Italy’. Moreover, if you prefer a secluded alpine lake, there are plenty to choose from.
Trentino is indeed the place to be for those who love snow, whether it’s gliding down endless kilometers of groomed pistes on alpine skis or making use of broad mountain passes and flat-bottomed valleys for cross-country skiing in a pristine environment. Whichever activity you choose, the jaw-dropping peaks and cliffs of the Dolomites provide an extraordinary backdrop. Facilities are top-notch, with options to stay in ski-in ski-out hotels and rejuvenate at mouth-watering mountain restaurants and lodges.
Castles and Culture
Trentino’s bustling capital is rich in arts and history. Further afield, tiny towns nestled in tributary valleys can be reached via winding roads, while fairy-tale traditional villages perched on steep mountainsides await exploration. The region is also dotted with historical castles and forts, many housing intriguing exhibits. Notably, Buonconsiglio Castle, the largest, served as the residence of the prince-bishops of Trento and symbolizes the city. Rovereto Castle hosts the Italian Historical War Museum, while visitors yearning to stay overnight within castle walls can do so at Castel Pergine in Valsugana. In summer, the ‘Castle Route Train’ operates on Saturdays, guided by experts from Trento, connecting castles such as San Michele, Caldes, Valer, and Thun.
With its stunning mountains, lakes, and valleys, Trentino features a multitude of microclimates that foster a diverse food culture. Each valley boasts its own signature products, so it’s worthwhile to indulge in local specialties, including unique Trentino cheeses, cured meats, organic vegetables, berries, and Italian olive oil, as well as smoked and cured trout and char sourced from the lakes and rivers. Here, the Mediterranean meets the Alps, providing opportunities to savor delicious culinary creations at lakeside cafes, Michelin-starred restaurants, and cozy mountain lodges along hiking trails.
Additionally, Trentino produces an excellent range of locally crafted wines and beers. The region, with its suitable climate and terrain, is home to three indigenous grape varieties: Nosiola, Marzemino, and Teroldego. Trentodoc, a prized sparkling wine from the mountains, is complemented by thriving varieties like Müller-Thurgau and Chardonnay. For beer enthusiasts, a growing number of niche breweries are blending traditional brewing methods with Trentino’s unique character and flair.
