Discover beautiful Lana | A guide to South Tyrol’s best kept secret
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Set in the foothills of the Dolomites, the village of Lana is a hidden gem of South Tyrol/Südtirol in northern Italy. The area of Lana presents delicious local alpine-Mediterranean food, beautiful landscapes and friendly people.
Lana is a place to indulge in the fresh mountain air and as a year-round destination, you can enjoy the changing seasons at their best with enriching activities on offer throughout the year.
Apple blossoms burst into colour in spring, summer brings wildflowers and a chance to dip in a refreshing natural pool. A golden glow blankets the Etschtal Valley/Val d'Adige in autumn and winter bringing a time to get cosy by the fire after a day out exploring in the snow.
Lana is the perfect stop to include on a road trip through northern Italy, you might want to stay a bit longer once you discover this secret of South Tyrol (Südtirol)! Make sure you savour some of the best apples in the region and incredible wine whilst enjoying nature at its best with a scenic hike across the lush green meadows in the Südtirol/Alto-Adige region.
In this guide we will share our favourite things to do in Lana including the best hikes, great places to eat and recommended boutique stays. We’ve written a more detailed guide on Schwarzschmied hotel which is one of the best places to stay in Lana.
Where is Lana?
Lana is located within the Etschtal Valley/Val d’Adige in between Meran/Merano and Bolzano/Bozen in the region of South Tyrol/Südtirol within northern Italy. Close to the Austrian border, South Tyrol (Südtirol/Alto Adige) is north of Lake Garda and Milan and northwest of Venice. The village of Lana encompasses the areas of Tscherms, Burgstall and Gargazon.
Lana is positioned at the doorstep of the Dolomites and a short drive from the impressive UNESCO World Heritage site. The Etschtal Valley/Val d’Adige is nestled between the mountainous regions of the Alps to the west and the Dolomites to the east.
What to know before visiting Lana?
In South Tyrol most of the locals speak more than one language and are bilingual, more than half speak German, a quarter speak Italian and some still speak Ladin, a local dialect. Most places in the region have more than one name, for example Meran and Merano.
South Tyrol was historically part of Austria, before it was annexed by Italy in WW1. After this change, many places were given Italian or latin derived names and most are now referred to by either name. Lana was one of the few places, only three in total within South Tyrol where their names were not changed.
What is Lana known for?
The valley floor in Lana is covered in apple orchards producing some of the best apples in Italy and is the main producer in South Tyrol, growing them for hundreds of years. South Tyrol is the largest organic apple supplier in Europe. Lana is perfectly positioned where the combination of the Mediterranean and alpine climates meet and creates the ideal conditions for apples to grow sheltered by mountains in the north.
Alongside growing apples, conditions in the valley are also perfect for grape varieties grown for wine. The valley produces high-quality wines and there is a vibrant viticulture and food scene that is worth discovering upon your visit. Lana has a sophisticated high street, adorned with bakeries, cafés and boutique shops. In days gone by, pilgrims would follow the scenic routes to the many historical religious sites found within the valley.
How to get to Lana?
By plane
The closest airport to Lana is Bolzano for regional flights and the nearest international airport is Innsbruck in Austria. From Innsbruck the journey takes around 2 hours 30 minutes to Lana by car. There are direct buses from the centre of Innsbruck to Lana which takes just over 2 hours 40 minutes. The next closest airports are Verona and Milan in Italy which takes approximately 2 hours 38 minutes to drive from Verona and 4 hours 30 minutes from Milan. Book a shared transfer from train stations or bus stops to your accommodation via the South Tyrol transfer site.
By bus and train
If you are travelling by public transport, buses and trains run regularly to Bolzano with connecting buses from Bolzano to Lana. There are direct buses from Milan to Bolzano and from Verona to Bolzano, book your tickets online at Flixbus. Flixbus travels from most European countries (Germany, Austria etc) and stops at Merano/Meran, Lana, San Candido/Innichen to name a few places in South Tyrol. Alto Adige Transfer provides a transfer service that can take you from a FlixBus stop to your accommodation including a return to the bus stop at the end of your trip.
The Merano Land Express bus from Munich Germany to Merano runs every Wednesday and Saturday from mid March to November. From Merano there is a connecting service to your accommodation. If you are travelling from Switzerland, catch the South Tyrol express which runs every Saturday from March to October to Merano. Regular buses run between Merano and Lana, check the times to ensure you are able to catch the last bus if arriving late in the evening.
By car
The A22 motorway connects Verona to Bolzano which includes paid tolls, there is an option to go a non toll route, which adds an extra hour onto the journey time. Roads are in good condition and well sign-posted to Bolzano and Lana. The total journey time from Calais to Lana avoiding tolls is 13 hours 17 minutes and with tolls it takes 12 hours 30 minutes. Lana is 1 hour 30 minutes drive north from Lake Garda, 2 hours 30 minutes from Verona, 3 hours from Venice and 4 hours 30 minutes from Milan.
If you are travelling by car during 15th October until 15th April you will need either snow tyres, snow chains or snow socks on board and if you are found without you could risk a fine. If you are travelling through Austria via Innsbruck, you are required to have a vignette (physical or online version), it costs around €9.90 for a vehicle up to 3.5 tonnes and lasts 10 days.
How to get around Lana?
One of the best ways to get around Lana is to use public transport and is a much greener alternative than driving your car and alleviates the stress of finding parking. In March 2023, a new green incentive was introduced which now gives all those visiting and staying in Lana overnight a free Südtirol Alto Adige Guest Pass for either 1, 3 or 7 days in total. The Südtirol Alto Adige Guest Pass gives access to free public transport across South Tyrol.
Lana is well connected by public transport, in the town centre there is a bus station and the mountains are connected by cable cars providing access to everyone. The pass includes access to the following transport in South Tyrol, trains, local buses, cable cars including Burgstall-Vöran, Vilpian-Mölten, Bolzano-Ritten, Bolzano-Kohlern, Mühlbach-Meransen, Ritten narrow-gauge railway and Mendel funicular.
Even if you are not staying in Lana, you are still able to purchase the guest pass for 1 day costs €20, 3 days costs €30, 7 days costs €45.
When is the best time to visit Lana?
Typically, Lana will experience warm summers and cold winters as a result of its Alpine-Mediterranean climate. There is fresh mountain air and Lana is a destination you can visit all year round. Before you visit Lana, explore the local webcams and read the weather forecast for the area.
If you visit Lana in winter, you’ll discover Christmas markets, skiing, wine festivals and Krampus parades. Krampus is a chilling celebration during the feast of St Nicholas, an Alpine folklore where Krampus, a creature half man half goat scares misbehaving children.
Spring starts in April and brings the blossoming of apple trees where Lana welcomes the new season with a whole host of events and activities such as learning about local herbs, farmers markets and tours of the apple orchards to celebrate its arrival.
Then summer brings the first harvest in August, with Gala apples. Warmer temperatures and longer days allow for days spent in the sun, from hiking and biking adventures in the day to evenings spent in the historical centre of Lana enjoying entertainment and delicious local cuisine.
In Autumn, you’ll be treated to a golden spectacle and the chestnut festival ‘Keschtnriggl’. This is the season of the main harvest for apples and grapes. In early October, Törggelen is an event where everyone gathers to taste and celebrate the first wines. Spend time walking along the orchards and vineyards at sunset to admire the colours in all their glory.
What are the best things to see and do in Lana?
Lana is a place of contrasts, with beautiful lush green valleys to dramatic mountain peaks, Michelin star restaurants to gourmet traditional taverns. Nature is at the heart of everything in Lana, celebrated throughout the year and experienced through exploring the trails and tasting the produce. The landscape of Lana is the perfect antidote to a busy life, a quintessential escape to experience the healing powers of nature.
Discover Kränzelhof
The philosophy of Kränzelhof is a fusion of nature, art, and wine. Franz the owner of Kränzelhof works with an open and insightful mindset that, “…art, nature and enjoyment simply belong together.” A must visit during your time in Lana, Kränzelhof is a family owned winery estate with a wonderful surprise, serene gardens displaying sculptures and artwork from local artists. Kränzelhof is not exclusive for wine enthusiasts but a place for everyone to enjoy the beautiful setting and grounds of the estate.
The viticulture methods at Kränzelhof use organic practices, where they avoid the use of pesticides and produce wonderful wines which you can taste on site. Tours can be organised to learn more about the business and explore the gothic cellar vaults. The Miil restaurant is located within the complex, set in an old mill and is a beautiful setting serving South Tyrolean traditional cuisine. You could easily spend hours at this magical spot, take your time to explore and let your senses be filled with new surroundings.
Walk along the Brandiswaalweg
Historically, Lana built a system of irrigation channels that would run from the mountain rivers into the fields in the valley to water crops. These systems had to be maintained and paths were built alongside them called ‘waalwege’. These paths are accessible today, take a walk along the Brandiswaalweg in Lana, a gentle walk that gives scenic views overlooking the beautiful Etschtal valley.
The trail for the Brandiswaalweg begins in Lana, passing many historical churches, chestnut forests, fruit orchards and you’ll walk through vineyard tunnels. Look out for llamas and chickens on your way and the path eventually reaches Brandis waterfall. In the spring, everything blooms and you will find a beautiful colour of blossoming apple trees.
Hike Vigiljoch/San Vigilio
In the winter months Vigiljoch transforms into a ski resort, whereas in the spring and summer months it is a hikers paradise. From Lana, catch the cable car to Seilbahn Bergstation (stazione funivia) at 1486 metres. The cable car is the second oldest in Europe, built in 1912, historically the cable car would attract those visiting Meran/Merano to explore San Vigilio. The San Vigilio cable car has recently undergone some renovations and will reopen in summer 2023. At the top of the cable car, there is Vigilius Mountain Resort, a 5 star hotel retreat only accessible by cable car. Take a hike to the beautiful church of St Vigilius Kirchl (Chiesetta S.Vigilio) at 1793 metres.
Swim in the Gargazzone natural pools
An alternative to your conventional swimming pool, a natural pool relies on plants to clean the water without the need for chemicals by using a plant filtration system and requires regular maintenance. The natural pools at Gargazzone are the ideal way to cool down in summer, surrounded by nature and in the open fresh air with occasional dragonfly visitor.
The Gargazzone natural pools are open Monday to Sunday from the 29th May until 11th September. Check online for ticket prices and specific opening times as these vary through the summer season. Facilities at the natural pools include changing cabins, lockers, toilets, showers and a bistro. There is also a beach volleyball area, kids playground, sun loungers and is the ultimate space to chill on a summer's day.
Take a stroll along the Gaulschlucht
Another beautiful, relatively flat hike that starts from Lana at the Teiss bridge is the Gaulschlucht promenade which translates to Gaul Gorge. The route runs alongside vertical rock and the walkway becomes suspended alongside it, giving access deeper into the wild gorge. On this trail you’ll discover waterfalls, following the course of the Falschauer river. We recommend on your route back from the gorge to take the path to the left uphill to an incredible view point overlooking Lana.
Catch a cable car up to Vöran/Verano
Make the most of your South Tyrol guest pass which gives you free access to Vöran using the efficient and impressive cable car. Buses run regularly to Burgstall Postal where the cable car is located, only a short 20 minute bus ride from the main Lana bus stop terminal. Vöran has a selection of trails to choose from, there is a newly opened Knottnkino circuit trail where you can reach Rotstein, Beimstein and Timpfler Knott all of which are made of a rare and unique purple and red hued rock called porphyry.
One of the shortest walks from Vöran is to Beimstein Knott, a short 30 to 40 minute walk from the cable car. At the top of Beimstein Knott there are incredible views out over the Etschtal valley and Vöran and an art installation of imaginary chairlifts where you can sit and enjoy the panoramic views. Rotstein Knott features an outdoor cinema, a series of chairs that showcases one of the best places to watch sunset.
Explore the centre of Lana
The village of Lana has an elegant and sophisticated feel, with a number of boutique shops, cafés, bakeries, local handcrafts and restaurants. There is a car-free pedestrian zone along Am/ Via Gries, the historical centre walk along Griesplatz street with quaint cafés with a peaceful ambience. Shops along this stretch including books, clothes, florists, ice cream, outdoor wear, jewellery, chemist, shoes and more.
There is a weekly farmers market in Lana, every Friday selling local produce and crafts and a farmer market on Tuesdays. Throughout the year traditional markets take place including Ostermarkt and Bäuerlich Genussmeile in April, Keschtnriggl in autumn (a chance to taste chestnuts) and Sterntaler at Christmas. Whilst exploring all that there is to discover, here is a useful interactive map of Lana and or visit the tourist information centre for more information.
Where to stay in Lana?
Schwarzschmied Hotel
The relaxing setting of Schwarzschmied hotel is within close reach of the centre of Lana, overlooking Heilig Kreuzkirche church, vineyards and the Dolomite mountains on the horizon. The central outdoor pool features this iconic view and is the perfect spot for a morning dip, or a place to relax in the afternoon after a hike. Other facilities at the hotel include a gym, spa, restaurant serving delicious local, fresh cuisine, bar and relaxation areas.
The hotel is inspired by its surroundings, with natural elements of wood and textiles featuring an elegant style in design. The rooms you can choose from are double, deluxe double, suite and junior suite. We stayed in a suite which has a bath, shower, lounge and beautiful balcony. There are regular yoga sessions and other activities on the weekly programme to make the most of your stay and help you feel rejuvenated. Book your stay at Schwarzschmied hotel, a luxury escape in South Tyrol and read a detailed guide of our stay. Read our detailed written guide on what to expect whilst staying at Schwarzschmied hotel in Lana.
Schlosshof Resort - Hotel and Camping
An award winning campsite in Lana, the Schlosshof Resort campsite, offers spacious pitches with impressive views of the surrounding mountains. This unique and vibrant resort is a family owned business, currently in the 4th generation and has a friendly and warm approach towards their guests making sure your stay will be one to remember.
Facilities on site include an outdoor heated pool and indoor pool, adults only infinity pool, bar, restaurant, spa, private bathrooms and service facilities such as laundry, wastewater and blackwater emptying. The choice of pitches ranges from classic, deluxe or premium which defines the size of the pitch and each has water and electricity. Book your stay at the Schlosshof Resort for an enjoyable and memorable stay in South Tyrol.
Where to eat in Lana?
Lana holds a tradition to showcase local produce, take inspiration from their surroundings and create culinary masterpieces. A fusion of Alpine and Mediterranean influences are found within the wonderful dishes found on the table in Lana. As with the seasons, the menu for many restaurants change with the seasons to give you the freshest and best local produce available.
Pfefferlechner restaurant and brewery
A cosy and old tavern, in the heart of Lana, the Pfefferlechner restaurant is a beautiful, intimate restaurant serving traditional local comfort food and locally brewed beer. A unique experience with a rustic ambience, featuring farm animals, a beer garden and has an alpine chalet inn feel with warm wooden elements. The menu includes pork knuckle, ribs, sauerkraut, sausage, dumplings and apple fritters.
La Fucina
At Schwarzschmied hotel, La Fucina is a restaurant that uses fresh and local ingredients to create delicious seasonal dishes that are outstanding. A farm to table menu produced by their resident chef that follows a ‘slow food’ concept where you take your time to eat and enjoy each dish defined by what nature provides.
