Duration: one full day
Itinerary: from Bolzano to Campo Tures, roundtrip: 206 kilometres
Equipment: hiking boots, a raincoat, some space for souvenirs
A Day in Val di Tures: Waterfalls, Castles and… Krapfen
Among the wonderful valleys of South Tyrol, Tures is undoubtedly a small gem
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Among the wonderful valleys of South Tyrol, Tures is undoubtedly a small gem that is worth seeing in all its glory. Nature, history, shopping and of course a passion for good food are all notable features in this mountainous valley. It stretches from the town of Bruneck to Campo Tures, the true hub of this Valley, then joins the equally fascinating Aurina Valley. Get on your faithful companion and leave Bolzano towards Bruneck, about eighty kilometres away. Have a well-deserved coffee break before heading for the Val di Tures.
After passing through San Giorgio, Gais and Villa Ottone, upon reaching Molini di Tures, take the road that leads to the Riva Waterfalls. These are three impressive waterfalls created by the eponymous Riva River and are probably the best known in the entire region. Park your Vespa and begin your long walk, equipped with hiking boots and a waterproof jacket, regardless of the season – just note: you might get a tad wet.
Once you finish your morning excursion, you might feel your stomach rumbling; can you blame it? Put your rain jacket in the top case, turn on the engine and drive for ten kilometres until you reach the Agriturismo Kofler Zwischen Den Wenden, located against a mountain wall between Acereto and Riva di Tures, surrounded by the charm of mountain pastures. Relax with a platter of local cheese and cold cuts, including the unmissable speck; then move on to Canederli (Tyrolean Dumplings), Schlutzkrapfen, which are a half-moon shaped tortelli pasta, usually topped with butter and chives, or Spätzle, local dumplings. For a second course, there is pork leg or a sausage, and to finish, wild berry pastries.
After indulging in such a feast, continue your trip towards Campo Tures. Drive through it, at least for now, and head towards Taufers Castle, the medieval fortress that overlooks the city: a 13th century structure that has been restored since World War II, featuring 64 rooms, including 24 entirely made of wood-panelled walls. You might even recognize certain views featured in the Italian television series Le Ali della Vita, with Virna Lisa and Sabrina Ferilli – a favourite for TV connoisseurs.
After visiting the Castle, get on your Vespa and finally stroll around the town of Campo Tures. You can squeeze in some shopping here and have a seat for a few minutes at one of the tables of the renowned Café Domino and have a hot chocolate, krapfen or an ice cream topped with a cascade of raspberries – the perfect way to end a day in Val di Tures, before putting on the helmet, turning on the engine and saying goodbye to this magical land.
