Völs am Schlern Travel Guide

Discover all the best things to do and places to visit in Völs am Schlern, from hiking routes to local culture and customs. Plan your trip with this ultimate travel guide.


Introduction to Völs am Schlern

Völs am Schlern is a charming village in South Tyrol, located in the heart of the Dolomites. This picturesque destination is known for its stunning natural surroundings and rich cultural heritage. From hiking and biking routes to historical sites and museums, there’s something for everyone in Völs am Schlern.

List of Places to Visit in Völs am Schlern

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

No visit to Völs am Schlern is complete without exploring its unique cultural sites and historical landmarks. Start your tour at the Pfarrkirche St. Peter und Paul, a 17th-century parish church that boasts beautiful frescoes and a breathtaking altar. Then, head to the Schlern-Rosengarten Nature Park Visitor Centre to learn more about the region’s flora and fauna. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Volkskundemuseum Rainer Schönfelder, a fascinating museum that showcases the lifestyle and traditions of South Tyrol’s rural population.

Natural Attractions of Völs am Schlern: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Völs am Schlern is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a range of activities to suit all levels. Take a scenic hike to the Schlernhaus, a mountain refuge that offers breathtaking views of the Dolomites. Or, embark on a biking tour along the Eisack Cycle Route, which winds through idyllic alpine scenery. For a more relaxed adventure, visit the Völser Weiher, a picturesque lake surrounded by lush vegetation.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Völs am Schlern

Völs am Schlern offers a range of scenic hiking and biking routes that cater both to beginners and experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the most popular trails include the Tschafon Round Tour, a 4-hour hike that offers stunning views of the Dolomites, and the Schlern Summit Tour, a challenging 7-hour hike that rewards visitors with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. For biking enthusiasts, the Eisack Cycle Route is a must-see, offering a scenic tour through South Tyrol’s stunning alpine landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Völs am Schlern: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities to do in Völs am Schlern. Some of the top things to do include a Segway Tour or Horse Riding Tour where you can explore the surrounding trails in a unique way. For an unforgettable experience, take a Sightseeing Flight and admire the dolomite peaks from above. Alternatively, try a Wine Tasting Tour of the vineyards, and get a taste of the local produce.

Week-Long Itinerary for Völs am Schlern

Day 1: Arrive in Völs am Schlern and take a leisurely walk in the village to explore the local architecture and enjoy a delicious meal in a local restaurant.
Day 2: Hike or cycle in the Sunnseitenweg area followed by a local beer in the distinctive Thaler brewery.
Day 3: Visit the church of St. Peter and Paul, take in the frescoes, then head to the Runkelstein Castle to admire the artwork on the walls.
Day 4: Spend the day at the Völser Weiher lake enjoying a picnic and sunbathing on the shore.
Day 5: Take part in a wine tasting tour, learning about the local production process as well as enjoying the taste of South Tyrol wines.
Day 6: Visit the Seiser Alm Resort and enjoy a range of activities from hiking to skiing.
Day 7: Try the local Segway tour to get a unique view of the beautiful landscape.

Food and Drink Scene of Völs am Schlern

Must-Try Dishes

South Tyrolean cuisine is a unique blend of Italian and Austrian traditions, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage. Some of the must-try dishes in Völs am Schlern include the Schlutzkrapfen, a type of stuffed pasta served with butter and cheese, and the Tirtlan, a sweet dough stuffed with apples or berries. Don’t miss the chance to try the local cheeses, such as Südtiroler Speck and Sauerkraut.

Local Beverages

When it comes to drinks, South Tyrol has a long tradition of wine-making, with many local vineyards producing high-quality varieties. Lagrein and Vernatsch are two of the most popular red wines, while Müller-Thurgau and Kerner are among the best white wines. For a unique taste, try the local Apfelmost, a type of cider made from locally grown apples.

Where to Stay in Völs am Schlern: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Völs am Schlern offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences, from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses. Some of the top properties to consider include the Hotel Waldsee, which boasts stunning lake views and a range of wellness facilities, and the Gstatschhof Hotel, a family-run hotel housed in a traditional Alpine building. Alternatively, budget-friendly options include the Schatzerhof Guesthouse, which offers comfortable rooms and a rustic atmosphere.

What to Buy in Völs am Schlern: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When it comes to souvenirs, Völs am Schlern has plenty to offer. Some of the must-buy items include local cheeses, such as Südtiroler Speck, Sauerkraut, and Schüttelbrot. For a unique gift, consider purchasing handmade wooden crafts, such as bowls, spoons, and figurines.

Local Culture and Customs of Völs am Schlern

The area has a rich history and cultural heritage, with traditions passed down from one generation to the next. One popular tradition is the Krampuslauf, which takes place in December and features participants dressed in elaborate costumes and masks. The festival is meant to frighten off evil spirits and herald the arrival of Christmas.

Best Time to Visit Völs am Schlern

The best time to visit Völs am Schlern is between May and October, when the weather is mild and the nature is in its most beautiful state. The summer months offer plenty of outdoor activities, while autumn is the best time to admire the changing colors of the leaves and enjoy the harvest season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Völs am Schlern

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Take the time to explore the surrounding nature on foot or by bike.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the natural environment.
  • Dress inappropriately when visiting churches and other religious sites.
  • Be too loud or disruptive in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Völs am Schlern

Völs am Schlern is a safe destination, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. However, visitors are advised to take standard safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on their belongings when in crowded areas and avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Völs am Schlern

South Tyrol has a high-quality health care system, with many medical facilities and trained professionals. Visitors are advised to purchase travel insurance before their trip to ensure that they are covered in case of injury or illness.

Getting to Völs am Schlern: Transportation Options and Logistics

Völs am Schlern is easily accessible by a range of transport options, including air, train, and bus. Some of the most popular routes include flying into Innsbruck Airport, which is just 70km away, or taking a train to Bozen/Bolzano station, which is 17km away.

Airports Near Völs am Schlern

The closest airports to Völs am Schlern are Innsbruck Airport (70km) and Venice Marco Polo Airport (210km).

Bus Stations Near Völs am Schlern

FlixBus operates regular services through Völs am Schlern to a range of major destinations including Munich and Vienna.

Other Options

Rental cars are plentiful and can be hired from major airports or train stations with Dolomite passagiers. Alternatively, visitors can take taxis or use ride-sharing apps to get around.

How to Get Around in Völs am Schlern

The village is easily manageable on foot, but bikes and cars are available for rent if you want to venture further into the region.

Where to Go Next from Völs am Schlern: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Völs am Schlern is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area, with many nearby towns and attractions to visit. Some of the top destinations include the picturesque Castelrotto, the charming Ortisei, or the scenic Seiser Alm Wildlife Park.

Conclusion

Völs am Schlern is a hidden gem in South Tyrol, offering an ideal combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a hiker, a history buff, or a food lover, there’s something for everyone in this idyllic corner of Italy. So, start planning your trip today and discover the best that Völs am Schlern has to offer.

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