Europe’s Hidden Sustainable Travel Gem: South Tyrol
Photo Credits: G-R Mottez via Unsplash.
Italy is one of the most beloved travel destinations in the world. With almost 100 million tourists a year, making it the 5th most traveled destination, it’s almost impossible to find an area not full of travelers. While there are so many beautiful regions of Italy, our favorite, and the most sustainable, is the northern region of South Tyrol. With gorgeous scenery, fabulous hotels, and few tourists, our founder, and fellow travel enthusiast, Natascha names South Tyrol the “hidden gem of international travel”. So, what makes South Tyrol a great travel destination and why do we love it so much?
Sustainability All Around
Over the last couple years, South Tyrol has quietly been making its way to becoming a truly sustainable area. South Tyrol itself is a rather unknown travel destination, especially internationally. This means less tourists and a better local experience. Traveling within South Tyrol will let you experience a lot of different activities while being immersed in the local communities. As we’ve said before, 2022 travel trends point towards meaningful trips with a focus on yourself and your mental wellbeing, and South Tyrol is the perfect location. With the calming and scenic mountains, sustainable activities, and interesting history and culture, South Tyrol makes for a fantastic eco-friendly trip. As founder of Co-Matters, Bettina Schnabel, says it’s the perfect place to “work and develop yourself”.
South Tyrol offers a variety of culture too. While it will give you a taste of authentic northern Italian culture, you can also experience traditional southern German and Austrian cultures due to South Tyrolean history. Moreover, the region uses many different forms of renewable energy and is “committed to the expansion of renewable energy sources”. There is also a focus on sustainable farming and wine production, so you can easily find ethically and locally sourced meals.
There is no direct airport access into South Tyrol and if you’re trying to fly, you’ll have to fly into Innsbruck, Verona or Venice airport. Not having a local airport makes South Tyrol more sustainable, and travel within South Tyrol is very easy with great public transport.
Location is Key
There are many reasons why we think South Tyrol is such a great destination. Whether you’re looking for a mountain getaway, a wellness trip, or a fun city vacation, South Tyrol has it all. The Dolomites are perfect for biking, hiking, and even skiing, Natascha calls the mountains “incredible” for snow sports. There is a lot of diversity in the mountains with tons of beautiful hotels and resorts, making it easy to find a place that fits your wants and needs!
The “landscapes are stunning” according to Natascha, and Bettina says that South Tyrol “combines magical places with good accommodation and gorgeous hotel options”. Our favorite thing about South Tyrol is the variety and as Natascha says, “there’s so much you can do”. The mountains offer an opportunity to get active whether it's hiking, biking, skiing, or even paragliding. If an active vacation isn’t on your agenda, South Tyrol is famous for its wellness resorts both in the mountains and in the valleys. South Tyrolean towns offer a variety of opportunities to shop, dine, and explore the interesting history and beautiful culture. Plus, we love the food!
South Tyrol Recommendations
Recommending one hotel in South Tyrol is impossible as there are a ton of gorgeous places to stay. Natascha found so many “wonderful hotels and retreats” to choose from when she visited. However, Bettina has helped us find two hotels that we absolutely LOVE!
Ovina’s House is a beautiful home located in Campo Tures. The house has been fully renovated and rebuilt from an old Austrian Cafe and has preserved much of the old tradition and culture, serving “regional dishes”. With a library, eight beautiful rooms, gardens, and saunas, it can fit up to twenty guests. Book a single suite or the entire house. Moreover, it is very close to the ski slopes if you decide to visit in winter. They also have charging stations for your electric cars and bike storage.
If you want to visit Ovina’s house, check out our client Co-Matters’ latest MeRetreat! The MeRetreat is a great tool to refocus on your wellbeing, productivity, and mindfulness. Bettina helps you find “clarity about your strengths and goals” through coaching sessions and relaxing activities such as yoga and nature walks. Take a look at their website and explore their wonderful, personal development trips that could be perfect for you!
The AEON hotel is another gorgeous hotel located in Renon Soprabolzano which Natascha stayed in a couple months ago. They “mix tradition and modernity” together in their hotel and value meaningful and local tourism. This idea is reflected in their food which is all locally sourced. Whether you want to explore the city or go hiking, they have so many fun activities you can take part in.
Photo: Merano
Two of our MUST visit places are Bolzano and Merano. These towns are close to each other and offer a variety of activities. From leisurely walks, to shopping, good food, and even museums, we haven’t found two places we like more. Merano is also located next to the Vigiljoch mountain pass which offers amazing hiking and biking opportunities. They are most famous for their thermal baths which are great for a wellness centered vacation. Bolzano has an interesting history which you can explore more of in their museums.
Public Transport Made Easy
Traveling within the region of South Tyrol is made easy with local buses and trains. If you are staying in a valley, you can use a bus to get to cable cars or chair lifts that will take you to the top. Buses and trains can also take you to other parts of Italy if you prefer to travel around the country and explore other areas. Natascha recommends traveling by electric car if possible. The region has great charging stations set up on the way. If you must travel by car, which is easy to do, make it as sustainable as possible-. There is also the opportunity to bike or walk if you aren’t going too far.
South Tyrol has so much to offer and will not disappoint if you’re looking for a relaxing, fun filled, and sustainable trip!