Go north with holidays to Trentino-Alto Adige

Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy’s most-northern state, consists of two autonomous provinces, Alto Adige, or South Tyrol, and Trentino. Autonomous from Italy since WW1, the two areas are essentially as independent of each other as they are from the mainland. Year-round holidays to Trentino-Alto Adige are ideal for sports lovers who want a touch of culture. The climate is varied, with alpine lows to Mediterranean highs – so whether it’s sun and snow, or just sun, that you’re after, try a holiday to Trentino-Alto Adige.

The Mediterranean meets Mountains on holidays to Trentino-Alto Adige

Holidays to Trentino-Alto Adige are jam-packed full of activity. Trentino offers the snowy peaks of the Italian Alps, unique cuisine and a dose of Italian dolce vita. In winter, there’s 800 km of pistes for alpine and cross-country skiing, snowboarding and mountaineering while summer’s offerings include walking, hiking and mountain biking. Head to the stunning Lake Garda for sailing and windsurfing, or for more action try rafting and canyoning on the faster rivers. For time out, the capital Trento is recommended for culture – visit monuments, historical palazzos and the famous market. Alternatively, treat yourself to a ‘hay bath’ in one of the many local spas.

The northern province of Alto Adige offers a slightly different experience than its southern sister, owing to its influence from Austria – two thirds speak German. Italy’s northernmost province is home to the Dolomites, the towering bronze-hued rocky mountain range which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Dolomites offer activities for thrill seekers – rock climbing, base jumping, paragliding, hand gliding and skiing in winter. The region’s history is rich, and a visit to province capital Bolzano offers Romanesque churches, quaint squares and the Museoin art museum. For a break, drive to nearby Merano where you can see the picturesque Tirol Castle, or try the relaxing thermal baths for a much-needed rest.

Cuisine on holidays to Trentino-Alto Adige is the icing on the proverbial cake, and emphasises just how unique the region is. The gastronomy fuses Italian and German, and can be found in the many traditional taverns in the area. Try speck, raw smoked ham or canerderli – bread balls with different fillings – with soup. Polenta is also a staple, alongside apples, soft fruits and cheese due to the region’s many orchards and fields. A holiday to Trentino-Alto Adige would be incomplete without visiting a vineyard, cellar or distillery to try their delectable Trentino grappa. For post-dinner entertainment there’s something for everyone: the raucous après ski scene, beer halls in Bolzano, wine bars in Trento and clubs in Merano.

Book your holiday to Trentino-Alto Adige with lastminte.com

The contrasting region that is Trentino-Alto Adige promises a holiday rich in cultural rarities and diversity – imagine a green Mediterranean landscape framed by snow-capped peaks and backed by a blue sky. If you’re after a sporty break with plenty of attraction when you want some downtime, look no further than a holiday to Trentino-Alto Adige with lastminute.com.