At the end of May, we – Julia and Clemens – discovered a new side of Trentino. Invited on a press trip by Valsugana & Alpe Cimbra, we dove into a region that many people still don’t have on their radar – and quite unfairly so.

At first, we thought we were still in South Tyrol. But as the locals explained to us, South Tyrol ends in Bolzano. After that begins a Trentino that speaks German, is historically connected to Austria – and is a real hidden gem for travelers. It’s nothing like the bustling Lake Garda. Instead: peaceful lakes with top water quality, authentic towns, artistic forests, and plenty of hiking and cycling trails to explore.

Four Days, Countless Impressions – What We Experienced

Cycling Along the Brenta: Active in Valsugana

We kicked things off actively: with a bike tour along the 80-kilometer Valsugana cycle path from Levico Terme to Borgo Valsugana – smooth, flat, and perfect for families and leisure cyclists. The route passes through charming villages, always accompanied by the Brenta River. Thanks to bike-sharing and the option to bring bikes on the train, the logistics are relaxed and flexible.

👉 Tip: Bikes & e-bikes can be rented easily everywhere. More info: Bike | Sport – APT Valsugana

Art in Nature: Arte Sella and VAIA Artworks

One of the highlights: Arte Sella in Val di Sella – an art park in the forest filled with large-scale sculptures made from natural materials. Since 1986, new artworks are created here every year. The “Cattedrale Vegetale” by Giuliano Mauri has become a world-famous symbol of impermanence and growth.

Also impressive: the VAIA artworks, created in the aftermath of the devastating 2018 storm. Sculptures like the she-wolf, the eagle, and the griffin powerfully combine mythology, nature, and craftsmanship.

Crystal-Clear Lakes & Peaceful Relaxation

Swimming, boating, fishing – Trentino is home to beautiful lakes, all certified with excellent water quality (Blue Flag):

• Lake Caldonazzo: The largest lake in Trentino, ideal for water sports and dog lovers (dog beaches!).

• Lake Levico: Quieter, more family-friendly, with lovely playgrounds and lakeside hotels.

• Lake Lavarone (Alpe Cimbra): A picturesque mountain lake at 1,100 meters – perfect for unwinding, hiking, and swimming. Even Sigmund Freud enjoyed his summer retreat here.

Artistic Villages & Historic Fortresses

La Guardia – the painted village – completely enchanted us. Its houses tell stories through murals: scenes from rural life, legends, and nature. A walk here feels like flipping through the pages of a picture book.

We got hands-on with history at Forte Dosso delle Somme (a scenic hike!) and Base Tuono, a former NATO missile base now turned open-air museum. Contemporary history and alpine panoramas combined in a deeply memorable way.

Other highlights:

• Castel Ivano – Winery, castle, and panoramic viewpoint

• Castel Pergine – Romantic dinner with a view, and no Wi-Fi

• WWI Exhibition in Borgo Valsugana

• Fortress Trail on Alpe Cimbra

Taste & Hospitality – How We Tasted Trentino

Trentino has so much to offer culinary-wise:

🧀 Vezzena Cheese – bold, traditional, produced on high alpine pastures
🍷 Cantine Terre del Lagorai – Solaris, Chardonnay & more, at Castel Ivano
🍺 Birrificio Barbaforte – creative craft beers from Folgaria, many gluten-free and award-winning

A truly unique culinary experience awaited us at Ersilia, Botanic Bistro, right next to Arte Sella. Seated under overgrown tree vines, surrounded by nature and art, we enjoyed seasonal dishes that brought the “Land Art” concept onto our plates. An atmosphere where cuisine, art, and landscape blend into something unforgettable.

And for those seeking something extra special: Castel Pergine isn’t just a place to dine – you can stay overnight in style, overlooking the Valsugana Valley, completely unplugged from the digital world but full of charm.

Valsugana also offers a lovely idea for sustainability fans: symbolically adopt a cow! Part of the dairy products go to you, and part to social projects. It doesn’t get more regional than that.

Day Trips: Verona, Venice & Bassano

In the mood for a touch of city flair? From Trentino, it’s easy to reach:

• Verona – romantic & full of history

• Venice – always a classic

• Bassano del Grappa – culture & culinary delights

Perfect for a day full of contrasts – from lakeside calm to city buzz and back.

Our Conclusion: Trentino Surprised Us

This trip was more than just a short getaway. It was like a deep breath – filled with discoveries, connections, nature, and art.

Trentino – and especially Valsugana & Alpe Cimbra – truly captivated us. Here, history speaks softly, nature is powerful, and the people are wonderfully warm.

We’ll definitely be back. Without a doubt.