Tourist guides and tourist leaders in South Tyrol

The Alta Valle Isarco/Wipptal valley is South Tyrol’s northernmost area, just south of the Brennero pass and the Italian-Austrian border.

If you love the mountains and unspoilt scenery, this is your perfect destination. The picturesque little town of Vipiteno/Sterzing and its surrounding area are definitely worth closer exploration. Notably, it was among these landscapes that Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen found inspiration for his works. 

The local sights are all easily accessible and include the valley’s central point and the town of Vipiteno/Sterzing, which thrived on silver mining and trade and used to be the residence of royalty and influential mercantile bankers such as the Fuggers – the family of the wealthiest man in history. 

The town’s historic centre still bears witness to its golden age, with the iconic Zwölferturm tower clock, the numerous stately houses adorned with battlements and oriels and the Gothic town hall. The town hall courtyard features artefacts dating back to Roman times, including a milestone and a mysterious relief portraying the Persian sun god Mithras – all reflecting the town’s important role as a transit route in ancient times.

We, the tourist guides and tourist leader of South Tyrol, will be happy to take you on a discovery journey:

On a two-hour guided tour of Vipiteno/Sterzing we will visit the various churches, town houses and the old town hall, or the former Hospice of the Teutonic Order, which now houses the Municipal Museum and the famous altarpieces by Hans Multscher, one of the best artists from the 15^th century.

A half-day or full-day guided tour will give you the chance to visit the surrounding areas, for example by crossing the Giovo/Jaufen pass into the Merano/Meran area, or the Pennes/Penser pass into the unspoilt Sarentino/Sarntal valley. The bishop town of Bressanone/Brixen is only 30 km away, and Bolzano/Bozen is also within reach. 

We suggest devoting a day trip to visiting the Monteneve/Schneeberg mines and museum, which used to be one of the largest and highest mining areas in the region. 

The Vipiteno/Sterzing valley basin is the star-shaped meeting point of several valleys, and is surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Ötztal, Stubai and Zillertal Alps. These offer plenty of rewarding hiking itineraries, ranging from easy to challenging, which you can explore either on your own or with our guides. Late risers and the less sporty guests will be happy to know that lift facilities are available to shorten the climbs.

Are you looking for accommodation in Vipiteno /Sterzing or the Alta Valle Isarco/Wipptal valley?

You are welcome to send your accommodation enquiries to the Vipiteno/Sterzing tourist office: T +39 0472 765325; info@sterzing.com; www.sterzing.com.