The Upper Venosta Valley is culturally distinct from its environs. It encompasses
Malles Heath (Malser Haide) and the
Stelvio National Park (Italy's largest nature reserve), where the Ortler mountain range majestically rises. Numerous
castles,
churches, abbeys
and medieval towns characterize the regions bordering Switzerland and
Austria. The natural monuments can best be appreciated by means of
guided village tours, including the underground bunkers.
Unique hiking possibilities are to be found in the Upper Venosta Valley, for example the trails flanking the ancient
irrigation channels,
or the relaxing walking tours through unspoiled forests. The Upper
Venosta Valley is also characterized by an exemplary synergy between
humans and nature. Traditional
markets,
Alpine pastures
and grain-cultivation have continued unchanged for centuries. Local
producers offer Alpine dairy cheeses and milk products, fruit and
regional bread types from the Venosta Valley, once known as the
granary of Tyrol and purpose created cultural organizations as Adam und Epfl are there to ensure that these traditions are kept alive.