The appeal of South Tyrol’s Isarco Valley is as vast and diverse as its stunning landscape, the super fun trails to ride, and the relaxing vibes stemming from its collection of old towns like Sterzing, Brixen and Klausen. This Spot Check sums up everything that shouldn’t be missed on a visit to this Valley of Trails.
How to get there
Everyone who has ever driven along the Brenner motorway towards Italy has been here already – you just might not realize it. On route to Trento, the A22 weaves its way through a large chunk of the Eisacktal, or the Isarco Valley as it is often referred to. You could call this first real place where South Tyrolean flair can be experienced in a truly Alpine setting. It’s often overlooked – perhaps you’re guilty of it too – but, as we found out recently on our Spot Check, it more than deserves to become your next point of call.
The region’s best trails
A true trail highlight is the Plose Flowtrail, that opened last year. It drops around 1,000 vertical metres from the mountain station of Plose, Brixen’s local mountain, and back down to the valley station. Multiple runs are therefore not a problem. And that’s a good thing too, as it’s wise to take your first ride on the well-built trail at a more moderate pace so that you can then gauge the more technical sections.
But the Isarco Valley has more to offer than just these flow trails. The possibilities are as diverse as the terrain. Follow the Brenner Border Route (the Grenzkammrunde), which follows the old military roads, right through to the alpine trails above the tree line. Depending on which side – and at what altitude – of the valley, you might find the trail characterized by rocks and roots, but there is also soft and damp woodland to be ridden on.
Where to stay
From farm stays to luxury hotels or campsites, there are tons of options for accommodation in the Isarco Valley, and they’re listed on eisacktal.com. Riders can check out the website Bikehotels.it to find suitable bike-friendly hotels that suit their holiday needs.
Isarco Valley’s 3 Must-Dos:
- Ride the Plose flow trail
- Wander through the alleyways in the towns of Sterzing, Brixen or Klausen.
- Do a huge day-long ride with tons of vertical metres – both up and down!
More information
For more information on the region and hotel bookings, head to:
Don’t miss our other spotchecks from South Tyrol:
Spotcheck: Alpe di Siusi – All Levels, All Ages in the Dolomites
Spotcheck: Val Gardena – A Stunning Valley in the Dolomites
Words & Pictures: Christoph Bayer
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