Visiting Lana: Embark on a Soulful Adventure in the Alps of South Tyrol

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Kate + Vin

Kate looking at the morning sun through the trees in Lana, South Tyrol, Italy
tyrolean alps icon 1

Lana is a beaming bouquet of South Tyrol’s most beloved qualities. Here is your guide to adventure and enchantment in the “California of the Alps”.

No matter how many adventures you embark on in South Tyrol, the land never fails to surprise you. This rings especially true when visiting Lana.

A charming mountain town pairing old-world ambiance with cosmopolitan vibes, Lana sits amid the orchards and vineyards bridging Bolzano and Merano. Its ideal location makes for a wonderful base while visiting South Tyrol — especially in autumn when Törggelen fosters an extra festive spirit.

As we show you below, Lana teems with swoon-worthy sights caught in the enthralling medley of Alpine and Mediterranean landscapes. You will find this hidden corner of South Tyrol produces abundant moments of awe and some of the most prized grapes and apples in Europe.

⇒ Plan Your Visit to Lana: Grab our South Tyrol + Dolomites Travel Guide

What to See & Do in Lana

All of South Tyrol’s splendor from the majestic peaks of the Dolomites to the fabled streets of Bolzano and Merano are within easy reach of Lana. But the town itself offers so many riveting hiking trails and cultural wonders that it is a must-experience all its own. If you only have a few days to visit Lana, here are the top things to see and do.

1. Explore Mount Vigiljoch

san vigilio church vigiljoch
The ancient San Vigilio Church sits on the summit of Mt. Vigiljoch.

A trip to South Tyrol is not complete without enjoying the sweeping panoramas from the skyscraping heights of a mountain. And there is perhaps no better mountain to ascend than Vigiljoch (also known as San Vigilio). A 6,200+ foot giant, the mountain careens to the heavens from the foot of Lana.

This forest-clad massif lets you peer deep to the east to eye some of the most iconic peaks of the Dolomites. But the theater of the sky does not end there. To the west, rise the magnificent Ortler Alps where the king of South Tyrol’s peaks, Ortler, commands reverence. Turn your eyes to the north and the Ötztal Alps thunder before you. These peaks were the glacial home to Ötzi the Iceman for 5,300 years.

The San Vigilio Cable Car from Lana whisks you partway up the mountain in a matter of minutes. Built in 1912, it is the second oldest cable car in Europe.

mt vigiljoch hiking south tyrol

At the end of the ride, you can continue the sweat-free ascent by hopping on a lift chair. It will drop you below a hill crowned by the San Vigilio Church. This small stone chapel rises from the ruins of a prehistoric shrine. Since the Medieval Age, the San Vigilio Church has welcomed patrons.

Taking the chairlift no doubt stuns above the treetops, but it robs you of one of the most serene hikes in South Tyrol. After departing the cable car, we recommend hiking trail no. 1, which leads you through ancient larch forests where the silence greets you like a long-lost friend.

From trail no. 1 you will take trail 34A up a boulder-riddled slope that opens into a bright meadow with a mountain stream pouring its heart out. The mineral-rich water of Vigiljoch is revered for its healing properties. In fact, the spa Terme Merano fills its thermal pools with water pumped directly from the mountain.

vigiljoch horses
South Tyrol’s famous Haflinger horses grazing on the mountain.

Trail no. 34A eventually connects with trail no. 34B. We recommend hopping on 34B to ramble your way up to the Bärenbadalm. Here, you can enjoy a hearty South Tyrolean meal while naming each peak of the Dolomites beautifying the horizon.

When ready continue hiking on trail no. 2. Within 20 minutes you will reach San Vigilio Church. A stone path snakes off the trail guiding you to the church entrance.

First mentioned in 1278, locals still refer to the church as the “weather church” as it is said to protect people from thunderstorms. It is not open to guests, but the gated doorway allows you to peek inside and ponder faded frescoes from the 14th century.

mt vigiljoch lana
Mt. Vigiljoch holds wonders both big and small.

After admiring the church, shuffle down the slope to begin your return to the San Vigilio Cable Car.  Follow trail no. 4 to the chairlift station and then veer off to trail no. 8.

A short walk leads to an outlook platform jutting out above the tips of pines. Here, you will survey a grand checkerboard of vineyards and orchards, far-off villages and an even clearer picture of the Dolomites.

vigiljoch views
The views are seemingly endless. On a clear day, you can admire the Dolomites stretching in the east.

Trek back to trail no. 4 and follow it down the mountain to trail no. 34. Once on trail no. 34, it is only another 20 minutes to the cable car station.

Before floating back to Lana, consider relaxing with a refreshment on the sun terrace of the Vigilius Mountain Resort — a 5-star resort that seemingly disappears into the mountainside.

2. Trek the Marlinger Waalweg

marlinger waalweg trail
The Marlinger Waalweg offers you 7+ miles of breathtaking beauty.

If you have never hiked along a Waalweg in South Tyrol, the Marlinger Waalweg (also known as Marlengo) is a picturesque introduction to the magic these trails offer hikers. Waalwegs are ancient waterways that run throughout the countryside of Merano and Val Venosta.

As early as the 12th century, farmers carved them into the mountainsides to channel snowmelt from the summits. Capturing the pure elixir flowing from the peaks was the surest way to satisfy the thirst of the area’s orchards and vineyards. Paths followed the canals allowing farmers to keep them free of debris.

The Marlinger Waalweg was built nearly 300 years ago and stretches 7+ miles high above the Etschtal valley (Val d’Adige) from Lana to the small hamlet of Töll. Hiking it takes 4-5 hours gently weaving you through a wealth of natural beauty.

marlinger waalweg marlengo waalweg

A handful of mountainside restaurants such as the Gasthaus Leitenschenke sit right on the trail pairing sumptuous dishes with even more sumptuous views. If you dine at Gasthaus Leitenschenke in autumn, be sure to order the South Tyrolean Chestnut Hearts dessert. It is a delectable dream of chocolate, chestnuts and cream not to miss.

As you walk along the trail, the calming melody of babbling water remains your companion. You’ll pass through orchards dappled with apples, plums and other fruits and dart underneath arches of vines basking their bulbous jewels in the sun.The sweet aromas enveloping the trail are enough alone to impart a smile on even the most haggard hiker.

Eventually, the path bends through deciduous forests and groves of old chestnut trees. These elders of the waalweg welcome you with ample amounts of shade and a bit of mischief as you may have to dodge the occasional falling chestnut.

3. Storm the Lebenberg Castle

lebenberg monteleone castle

The most striking historic sight you will encounter on the Marlinger Waalweg is the Lebenberg Castle (also known as Castel Monteleone). It salutes you from high above a steep avalanche of vineyards tumbling to the valley floor.

The Lords of Marling adorned the mountainside with Lebenberg Castle in the 13th century. While it is a sight worthy of lengthy admiration from a distance, the real pleasure comes from walking among its illustrious walls.

Inside, the sprawling fortress reveals the romantic and brutal realities of medieval life. The tour begins in a courtyard bedecked with grapevines and proceeds to the castle’s Gothic chapel of St. Stephan. Adjoined to Lebenberg in the 14th century, the chapel is awash in religious artwork of the time.

lebenberg monteleone castle tour
Views fit for a king. The Lebenberg Castle is one of the most scenic in South Tyrol.

After visiting the chapel, the tour continues to another courtyard and to a room holding a collection of arms and torture contraptions. Studying the room one can’t help but wonder what history remains hidden behind each blade and musket.

Before concluding the tour, it also brings you to a Hall of Mirrors, Hall of Knights and another courtyard showcasing French Rococo gardens ornamented with a 200-year-old mulberry tree. The vast view of the Etschtal valley through the battlements lining the courtyard paints a vivid picture of why the Lords of Marling chose this mountainside perch.

Reaching Lebenberg castle from the Marlinger Waalweg is a bit of a climb. However, you can also drive to the castle if you wish. Tours are available daily for 8€.

4. Experience the Brandis Waterfall

lana brandis gorge waterfall

From the remote crags of the Pacific Northwest and the Rockies to the forested wilds of North America, we have encountered many roaring waterfalls during our hiking adventures, but the melodic plunge of the Brandis waterfall above Lana is among the most eye-catching.

Crashing over cliffs on the edge of the Brandis Waalweg like a pot of gold spilling at the end of a rainbow, the Brandis waterfall is not the grandest we have ever seen. However, its accessible setting gives you something most waterfalls do not: the opportunity to intimately experience its breathless rush. If careful, you can hike nearly beneath the thundering downpour and let its mist splash tickle your face.

Reaching the waterfall involves a 2+ mile hike along the Brandis Waalweg. Created by the Lord of Brandis in the 1800s, the water of this waalweg runs beneath the trail instead of by its side.

lana italy brandis waalweg
The Brandis Waalweg runs high above Lana placing you eye-to-eye with the area’s steeples

The Brandis Waalweg leads you on a pleasant, flat ground walk through vineyards and orchards bearing everything from apples to kiwi. As it is set into the mountainside, the trail boasts sweeping views of Lana including historical gems such as the St. Margherita Chapel, the crumbling ruins of Brandis Castle and the Parish Church of Maria Himmelfarht, celebrated for its winged altar carved out of chestnut in the early 1500s.

About halfway through the hike, an old chestnut forest receives you with shade and alarm. Branches gnarled with age lurch over the trail as if they could snatch you at any moment.

Beyond the forest lies a few farmsteads where you may have to negotiate the trail with a loose chicken or three while trying to ignore the laughter of llamas below. Eventually, you will pass intriguing works of art dotting the trail before entering the Brandis Gaul. From here, you will trot over a wooden bridge following the Brandis stream all the way to the waterfall.

On the return hike, the Waalrast restaurant offers a chance to drink and eat under the guard of the Brandis Castle before venturing back to the trail’s starting point. Round trip the hike takes roughly 2 hours.

5. Summit the Hill of St. Hippolyt Church

hiking lana italy
Some of the best panoramas in the area can be found with an easy hike to the Church of St. Hippolyt.

Like the ancient stone chapel on Mount Vigiljoch, the Church of St. Hippolyt near Lana is not among the most arresting churches one could adore, but the scenery from its rocky hilltop transcends any cathedral.

St. Hippolyt Church in Lana

Once atop, your eyes will sweep over 20 villages and 40 some-odd castles strewn across the lush valley.

This small Romanesque church from the 1200s honors a relatively unknown patron whose past is largely born of legend. Fitting in a way, as the hill the Church of St. Hippolyt sits upon has religious roots dating back 4,000 years. Since ancient times, it was thought to be a source of mystical energy.

Trails around Lana lead to St. Hippolyt, but the quickest way to reach the church is to start from a parking lot located at the foot of its hill. From here, it is a 10-15 minute hike through woodland to the summit. The hike is relatively easy with only a few steep stretches.

6. Visit the Kränzelhof Winery & Gardens

kranzelhof winery gardens lana

When a town is crowned the largest fruit-growing community in South Tyrol, it is not difficult to happen upon a thriving garden. However, you will not find any more captivating than the seven gardens of the Kränzelhof Estate.

Beyond producing wines of exceptional esteem, this 800-year-old winery also seduces your mind, body and soul with seven gardens embellishing nearly 5 acres at the foot of Mount Vigiljoch. Sculptures and works of art spanning classical to contemporary decorate the immaculately manicured gardens encouraging you to pause and ponder their meaning.

Not all of the sculptures are in obvious places and poses. This imparts a whimsical spirit to the gardens as some will pleasantly surprise you from their hidden nooks.

kranzelhof gardens south tyrol
Captivating sculptures and artwork dot the gardens of Kränzelhof.

In the heart of the grounds, tempts an immense labyrinth made from an entanglement of evergreen hedges and grapevines. As we visited the estate near sunset, we gave up puzzling our way through the verdurous maze shortly after entering. We were certain continuing meant some other lost soul would one day stumble over our bones deep within.

kranzelhof wine tasting
Sweeten your stroll through the gardens with a sampling of Kränzelhof’s wines.

After strolling the gardens, we recommend continuing your contemplative journey by tasting the wines of Kränzelhof in the timbered house located at the entrance to the gardens. Even if you do not want to sip wine, be sure to walk through the structure. It is beautifully crafted from larch trees found nearby.

The Kränzelhof Estate and its gardens are open Tuesday-Saturday. You are free to walk the gardens on your own, but guided tours of the entire estate are also available for those interested in consuming the winery’s remarkable history in addition to its wines.

We suggest planning on at least two hours to fully enjoy the Kränzelhof experience. The cost to tour the winery’s gardens and sample its wines is 21€. If you wish to only discover the gardens, the cost is 8€.

⇒ YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: The Top 7 Things to Do in Merano

Where to Stay in Lana

landhaus am gries
Landhaus am Gries provides a front-row view of the seasons ravishing the mountains around Lana.

Hotels and resorts flourish around Lana, but our recommendation is to delight in this timeless town like a local. Experiencing Lana in such a way gives you a greater appreciation for its authentic charms, soulful spirit and historical beauty.

The studio apartments of Landhaus am Gries are ideally located in the old-world heart of Lana along the Falschauer River.

landhaus am gries apartments lana

Gorgeously decorated and furnished with exquisite craftsmanship throughout, the apartments possess a simple yet stylish Alpine interior aesthetic with warm wood tones that make you feel at home. Ours was cozy and spotless, with a dramatic view of autumn afire beneath the mountain crests.

The apartments’ location below the gaze of the 13th-century Braunsberg Castle places you within walking distance of all of Lana’s spectacular sights, restaurants and shops. In addition, a small grocery store, wine bar, butcher shop and specialty gourmet store sit nearby allowing you to easily pick up any items you may want in your apartment.

Owned and operated by the Donà family of South Tyrol, the heart-warming hospitality we received during our stay went above and beyond in every manner. Franziska Donà ensures your time in Lana is filled with the idyllic mix of adventure and relaxation.

⇒ EXPLORE AVAILABILITY AT LANDHAUS AM GRIES HERE

landhaus am gries room apartment
Rustic yet refined. Aromatic wood from the Alps adorns each Landhaus am Gries apartment.

She will pinpoint how to reach the destinations mentioned above as well as share insights on special events like Lana’s weekly and seasonal markets. In addition, you will receive a MeranCard that provides special discounts to guests of Lana at certain venues such as the San Vigilio Cable Car station.

Each of the twelve apartments includes a modern kitchenette, spacious bathroom and a balcony where you can relax with a complimentary bottle from the family’s own boutique winery — Weingut Donà.  This lovely winery in Eppan along the South Tyrolean Wine Road is a must-see if your South Tyrol travel wish list includes a genuine peek into the region’s wine culture.

When you wish to soak in the sun or get lost in a good book, a Mediterranean-inspired terrace facing the Falschauer River and Texel Mountain Group welcomes you with lounge chairs, olive trees and palms. Its lofty position above a leafy riverside promenade is a soul-mending way to spend a morning or afternoon.

landhaus am gries terrace river
Landhaus am Gries is located above the roar of the Falschauer river.

In fact, Landhaus am Gries’ riverside setting may just induce your best night’s sleep while in South Tyrol. We relished dozing off to the lullaby of rippling water rushing by our apartment each night with the skylight giving us a window to the stars above South Tyrol.

The moment you walk into Landhaus am Gries the revivifying aroma of fresh-cut stone pine (called Zirbenholz) embraces you. This sought-after pine of the Alps beautifies the building instilling tranquility that endures during your stay. For centuries, the Alpine regions of Europe have harnessed the wellness aspects of stone pine in their homes. Its pleasant fragrance remains in the wood for decades.

lana italy river
The natural beauty of Lana is right outside your door.

The apartment building itself holds a storied past. A farm stable long ago, its rural roots are ennobled by its age-old stone foundation and a historic sculpture gracing a wall near the entrance.

landhaus am gries sculpture

Depicting the patron saint of butchers, the sculpture at one time belonged to a butcher in the family. It once brought good fortune to the butcher shop, but now imparts blessings on all who pause to admire the saint. Dogs included.

If you’re lucky enough to bring your furry friend to South Tyrol, Landhaus am Gries is dog-friendly. A newly opened art promenade running along the river gives your dog plenty to explore just a few steps outside your apartment. Within minutes you can also walk to the imposing Gaul Canyon (“Gaulschlucht”) — a spectacle of steep stone walls, curious rock formations and rainforest-like flora.

If you have a car while in South Tyrol, parking is free and located immediately next to the apartment building.

⇒ EXPLORE AVAILABILITY AT LANDHAUS AM GRIES HERE

Where to Eat in Lana

Lana and its surrounding villages offer an abundance of one-of-a-kind dining options, from down-to-earth to opulent. Here are a few of our favorite places to eat during your visit.

Pfefferlechner in Lana

Pfefferlechner Tavern & Brewery

Pfefferlechner Tavern & Brewery is an establishment unlike any we have ever been to. Not only can you indulge in tasty craft brews, but you also can dine in their beer garden or traditional Buschenschank where windows offer a peek into farm animals frolicking within Pfefferlechner’s stables.

Their menu of course nicely complements the rustic ambiance. You can feast on delicious South Tyrolean fare made from only local ingredients.

Restaurant Stadele

Restaurant Stadele is a romantic gem not to be missed while in Lana. The quaint atmosphere of this candlelit restaurant and its fabulous South Tyrolean dishes and fusion cuisine will make for one of your memorable dining experiences in South Tyrol.

From our first sip to our last bite, the warm hospitality, presentation and flavor were superb. Even better, the menu is affordably priced. For the same experience in the U.S., it would cost twice as much.

Zur Sonne

Restaurants in Lana, Italy

Sometimes after an adventure-filled day on the trails, you just want to unwind with a glass of wine…and pizza. Zur Sonne is the perfect place for such an evening.

This tiny family restaurant located on a shop-filled street of Lana makes some of the best Italian pies in the Alps. Be sure to save room for a homemade dessert or two.

1477 Reichhalter

If you cannot decide on South Tyrolean or Italian fare, choose 1477 Reichhalter to savor both. Possessing a simple yet stylish farmhouse feel in a quiet corner of Lana, 1477 Reichhalter is renowned for its high-quality dishes and friendly service.

1477 Reichhalter Dessert

Dining at 1477 Reichhalter is an intimate experience — almost as if you are eating at the home of your best friend. After our meal, we considered reordering our dishes just to enjoy the delightful flavors all over again. 1477 Reichhalter is definitely a restaurant you will want to return to whenever in South Tyrol.

Mein Beck

Like trekking a mountain trail, satisfying your sweet tooth at a bakery while in South Tyrol is a must. Mein Beck is a bustling neighborhood bakery and cafe sure to brighten your morning with a wide assortment of heavenly pastries, breads, cakes and other celebrated specialties of South Tyrol.

We enjoyed a huge breakfast spread here while in Lana. If you plan to visit Mein Beck, keep your morning schedule light. The bakery is popular with locals and can be quite busy.

When to Visit Lana

Honestly, a trip to Lana is ideal at any time of year. The abundance of outdoor adventure and sights awaiting you means every season will be astounding.

Snow lovers will revel in winter hikes on Mount Vigiljoch and world-class skiing on the surrounding peaks. Not to mention the Dolomites, which are just 45 minutes away. If you visit during the holiday season, you can also stroll Lana’s boutique Christmas market. It is as enchanting as they come. You will definitely find a local craft or specialty that captures your heart.

Our most recent trip to Lana was this past autumn. If you time your visit between September and October, you will be rewarded with some of the most colorful scenery in South Tyrol. Furthermore, autumn in Lana allows you to partake in a variety of harvest celebrations such as Törggelen and Keschtnriggl (Chestnut Festival) as well as the Merano Grape Festival.


SAVE LANA TO YOUR TRAVEL BOARD

14 thoughts on “Visiting Lana: Embark on a Soulful Adventure in the Alps of South Tyrol”

  1. A really informative post!! TO be honest, I didn’t know many things about Lana even though I have been to Italy a couple of times before, and now I know what I have missed as it looks so gorgeous with an amazing view. It is a shame that I missed it as it looks something that I would have loved. Saving it up for the future.

  2. Lana in South Tyrol is really a gorgeous hidden gem. Very glad to know about this place. Seeing the Brandis Waterfall looks like such a peaceful experience. I am totally sold on visiting!

  3. This is such a refreshing area of heritage and nature. The first picture of Mount Vigiljoch took my breath away. It looks so picture perfect. And those castles, especially Lebenberg Castle totally intrigue me. And just when I thought I had read it all, you showcase those springs and waterfalls. I am in love with Lana now. Thanks for sharing this.

  4. This is an exciting post with great professional photos! Lots of useful hints, too. Lana looks extremely interesting, and I want to visit it. I haven’t had the chance to visit Tyrol yet. I would love to see this small stone chapel of San Vigilio Church. And I would like to do Marlengo trail and Brandis Waterfall, too. Combined with a winery and wine tasting seems to be a perfect trip.

  5. This post made me want to pack my bags and go to Lana. I never heard of it before prior to reading this post and just wow the photos alone sold me. There’s so much to see and do, I would love to experience this myself some day!

  6. I have done hiking in South Tyrol but never been to Lana and all I am going to say is WOW! I need to hike in this area. It looks so beautiful and I love your photos. Also a winery there… I AM IN! Have bookmarked this page for future reference. Want to get here as soon as Spring comes 🙂

  7. Ahh everyone I read something about south Tirol it just wants to make me go even more!! I would love to hike along the Marlinger Waalweg and see the gorgeous scenery. Adding it to my dolomite list of things to do now!

  8. I’m not very familiar with South Tyrol so had not read before about Lana. It looks like a gorgeous town, in a gorgeous location. The views are breathtaking, especially with those blue skies and the Marlinger waalweg looks like a good option for exploring. And lots of cultural sights, and food and drink tourism alongside the scenery.

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