Save the date: on 4 October 2022, we invite all passionate hikers to lace up their boots, shoulder their backpacks and set off directly from ADLER Lodge RITTEN for a
half-marathon hike that leads along the Chestnut Trail all the way to Villandro!
You will have to reckon with 21 kilometres and an elevation gain of 600 metres, but no worries – crossing the finishing line first is not the main goal here! This experience is more about the sheer pleasure that comes from hiking, being at one with nature, and indulging in traditional Törggelen specialities.
The Chestnut trail is a year-round wonder, but it is in autumn that it offers the best views, when the rolling hills all around come alight with bright yellow and orange hues. The itinerary is varied and spectacular. It leads along the Isarco valley’s sunniest side, through ancient chestnut groves and mixed woodland, with idyllic countryside churches and historic farmsteads dotting the largely unspoilt natural and cultural landscape. Soak up the enchanting autumnal atmosphere and the breath-taking view of the Dolomites, as the rustling of dead leaves and the cowbells’ gentle ring accompany your walk.
From early October to mid-November, the local farm taverns are open to the public, offering refreshments and traditional seasonal fare to passing hikers. This is the season of Törggelen – a popular South Tyrolean tradition that involves tasting young wine and sweet must with a side of roasted chestnut. But foodies can look forward to more than just chestnuts, as the traditional Törggelen menu also includes hearty dishes such as dumplings, home-made sausages and cold cuts, Speck bacon, Schüttelbrot (flat, crunchy bread) and sweet Kirchtagkrapfen. During the half-marathon you will have the chance to stop by one of the taverns and recharge with some of these specialities.
The itinerary in detail
The half-marathon route is a section of the Chestnut trail, a 91-kilometre long-distance hiking trail that begins in Bolzano and ends at the Novacella monastery, just north of Bressanone. Starting from ADLER Lodge Ritten, the trail leads via Siffiano, Monte di Mezzo and Longostagno to Barbiano, and from there on to Villandro. The last section of the Chestnut trail truly lives up to its name, as it is home to ancient, imposing chestnut trees.
There are two special highlights waiting for you along the way: the famous Renon earth pyramids and a 120-metre-long suspension bridge over the Ganda stream, which commands an impressive view of the Barbiano waterfall.
When you reach the finishing line, you will find a shuttle ready to take you back to ADLER Lodge in comfort.
For the half-marathon, you will need...
… all your wanderlust, good footwear and a bit of stamina. If you have all of these, don’t miss out on this experience. Wonderful nature, an exciting trail and lots of fun are waiting for you!
Carmen Hofer
ADLER Lodge Ritten