Klausen Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Klausen, including cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink, where to stay, and transportation options.


Introduction to Klausen

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Eisack Valley lies Klausen, a charming town in South Tyrol, in Trentino-Alto Adige, in Northeast Italy, in Italy, in Europe. Surrounded by towering mountains and lush green forests, this ancient town is steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Here, you’ll find winding medieval streets, centuries-old architecture, and a warm and welcoming local community. Klausen is truly a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

List of Places to Visit in Klausen

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Klausen boasts a rich cultural heritage that is showcased in several museums and historical sites. One must-visit location is the Kloster Säben, a hilltop Benedictine abbey that offers stunning views of the valley below. The Augustiner Museum, housed in a former monastery, showcases a vast collection of prehistoric and Roman artifacts, medieval sculptures, and much more. Another notable location is the Museo Civico, which highlights the town’s history, culture, and art.

Natural Attractions of Klausen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Klausen’s natural beauty is awe-inspiring, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors. One must-visit location is the Plose, a nearby mountain range that offers stunning Alpine views and a range of outdoor activities, such as skiing in the winter months and hiking and mountain biking in the warmer months. The Eisacktal Valley itself is also a popular spot for scenic drives, with winding roads that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Klausen

Klausen is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with a range of trails catering to all levels of fitness and experience. The Transalp Bike Route, which runs through the Plose mountains, is a challenging yet rewarding trail that offers stunning views of the Dolomite Mountains. The Eisacktal Valley itself has several walking and hiking trails that offer both easy and more challenging routes, such as the Keschtnweg, which winds through chestnut groves and vineyards in the valley.

Best Things to Do in Klausen: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are plenty of other things to do in Klausen. One popular activity is wine tasting, with several local vineyards offering tours and tastings. Additionally, you can take part in a guided village tour, exploring the medieval streets and learning about the town’s fascinating history. From skiing to horse riding, the activity options in Klausen are endless.

Week-Long Itinerary for Klausen

Day 1: Explore the medieval streets and architecture of Klausen Day 2: Take a hike or bike ride through the Plose mountain range Day 3: Take a guided village tour, learning about the town’s fascinating history Day 4: Spend the day wine tasting at local vineyards Day 5: Visit the Kloster Säben, a hilltop abbey with stunning valley views Day 6: Hit the slopes and go skiing at Plose Day 7: Take a scenic drive through the Eisacktal Valley

Food and Drink Scene of Klausen

Must-Try Dishes

Klausen has a rich culinary tradition, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. A must-try dish is the Schlutzkrapfen, a type of stuffed pasta similar to ravioli, filled with spinach and ricotta cheese. Additionally, the region is known for its Speck, a cured ham that is often served in thin slices as an appetizer.

Local Beverages

Klausen is home to several wineries and vineyards, with a focus on white wines such as Sylvaner and Kerner. Additionally, the region is known for its apple juice and cider, made from the numerous apple orchards in the area.

Where to Stay in Klausen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Klausen offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. For a truly authentic experience, consider staying at one of the town’s charming guesthouses or bed and breakfasts, such as Hotel Gampen or Gasthof Steg. Depending on your budget and needs, there are also several hotels and hostels in the area, such as the family-owned Hotel Löwenhof or the Klausen Youth Hostel.

What to Buy in Klausen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Klausen is known for its variety of locally produced products, including wines, apple juices, and cured meats. Additionally, the town’s quaint shops offer handmade crafts, including ceramics, woodwork, and textiles. Be sure to check out the weekly market that takes place in the town square, where you can find fresh produce, cheeses, and other local delicacies.

Local Culture and Customs of Klausen

Klausen is known for its strong local culture and traditions, including its unique dialect, which is a mix of German and Italian. The town celebrates its heritage through various festivals and events throughout the year, including the traditional Klausen Market in September, which includes a popular paragliding competition.

Best Time to Visit Klausen

The best time to visit Klausen is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the hills are green and lush. However, the winter months, from December to February, also offer a unique experience, with skiing and other winter sports available in the nearby mountains.

Do’s and Don’ts of Klausen

Do:

  • Try the local wines and apple juice
  • Explore the medieval streets and architecture
  • Take a guided village tour
  • Go hiking and biking in the Plose mountains

Don’t:

  • Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting the Kloster Säben or other religious sites
  • Use offensive or disrespectful language towards locals
  • Litter or damage the natural environment during outdoor activities
  • Ignore local customs and traditions

Safety and Health

Safety in Klausen

Klausen is a safe town to visit, with low crime rates and a welcoming community. However, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take normal precautions, such as keeping personal belongings secure and being mindful of traffic when walking or biking.

Health in Klausen

Klausen is part of the Italian health system, which provides quality public healthcare services to citizens and visitors alike. Visitors from EU countries can use their European Health Insurance Card for emergency care, while those from other countries should purchase appropriate travel insurance before their trip.

Getting to Klausen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Klausen

The closest airports to Klausen are in Innsbruck, Austria, and Verona, Italy, both of which are approximately 2 hours away by car or public transportation.

Bus Stations Near Klausen

Klausen is well-connected by bus to other nearby towns and cities, with regular services available from the local bus station.

Other Options

Renting a car is a great option for those who want to explore the area at their own pace, with several car rental companies available in the nearby towns and airports.

How to Get Around in Klausen

Klausen is a relatively small town, and most of its attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, for those who want to explore further afield, there are several options, including local buses, taxis, and rental cars.

Where to Go Next from Klausen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Klausen is ideally situated for exploring other nearby towns and attractions, including the picturesque town of Brixen, just a short bus or train ride away. Additionally, the stunning Dolomite mountains are within easy reach by car or public transportation, offering a range of outdoor activities and scenic views.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a hidden gem in the heart of the Alps, Klausen is the perfect destination. With its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and welcoming local community, there’s something for everyone in this charming town. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural activities, or simply relaxing in the warm Italian sun, Klausen has it all.

A view of Klausen. A view of Klausen.