Insider tips for the perfect active holiday in South Tyrol
Head of Marketing at Donau Touristik and passionate cyclist Claudia Reiter spent her 2021 holiday in Bruneck/St. Lorenzen in Val Pusteria/Pustertal. With her insider knowledge about active holidays in South Tyrol, she answers frequently asked questions from our customers about the cycle tour: Star Cycling South Tyrol - Cosy in Val Pusteria/Pustertal.
South Tyrol... sounds like mountain bike tours; can you also ride a classic touring bike there?
Claudia: South Tyrol is not only an Eldorado for mountain bikers, but definitely has a lot to offer for leisure cyclists. Along the picturesque Pustertal Valley cycle path, the route leads through the idyllic valley of the Rienz, which later flows into the Eisack, and on into the enchanting Tauferer Valley on the Ahr. The view of the mountains is unique!
Is German or Italian spoken in South Tyrol?
Claudia: Due to South Tyrol's history, both Italian and German are spoken. South Tyrol is an autonomous region with German as an equal language, spoken by around 60% of the population, while Italian is increasingly spoken in the towns. Street signs, menus etc. are often bilingual. I actually only spoke German.
What makes the region so special?
Claudia: The landscape in South Tyrol is unique - the view of the imposing Dolomites, the unspoilt nature and beautiful mountain huts. Culinary feelings of home arise when warm apple strudel is served. Very hospitable hosts. The best way to marvel at the mountain scenery is on a panoramic trip on the 150-year-old Pustertal Valley railway.
We also went hiking, there are leisurely circular tours that can be reached by numerous cable cars. We also got ambitious and climbed the Langkopfel (approx. 2812 m) - and no, I didn't have to be carried piggyback😉 The Brixen Cathedral, just half an hour from Mühlbach by train, was unforgettable. The cloister of the cathedral is one of the most important artistic monuments in South Tyrol.
What is my advantage if I book my active holiday with you and not directly at the hotel?
Claudia: We often hear that question! The Pustertal Valley cycle tour is a star cycle tour. Here you don't cycle from place to place, but start each day's tour from the top 3☼☼☼Sup. inn Hotel Alpenrose. A big advantage is the advice before the trip and the tested routes for the cycle excursions. An information pack with a tour map containing all the necessary information is provided in advance. In addition, star bike tours also include entrance fees etc., e.g. this tour includes admission to and a guided tour of Taufers Castle - as well as a hire bike, so you can also travel comfortably by train.
The advantage of the package holiday is that you are covered by the EU Package Travel Directive!
Can I also ride my mountain bike?
Claudia: Sure, that's not a problem. Nevertheless, I have to add that our cycle tours are primarily designed for leisure cyclists. Classic touring bikes and electric bikes are best suited for this (https://www.donaureisen.at/radreisen/allgemeines/leihraeder). However, some people also ride an e-mountain bike on our cycle routes. If you want to cycle with your own bike, you get a discount for the included bike.
Do you have any further questions about cycling holidays in Val Pusteria/Pustertal? Contact our bike specialists!