Where to go by motorbike in autumn? Here are some tips to regenerate in South Tyrol before the freezing winter between gourmet dishes, excellent wines and a lot of well-being.
The proposed itinerary runs through the Sarentino Valley and the Brennero state road, to discover the Passo Pennes or the Passo delle Erbe, stopping between ancient villages and splendid structures where you can regenerate.
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San Michele d'Appiano (BZ)
The small historic village of San Michele, located at 411 m above sea level, is the main town and the largest wine-growing municipality in South Tyrol. Thanks also to its proximity to Bolzano, which is only 9 km away, the area around San Michele is a popular destination for those seeking peace, excellent cuisine and of course excellent wines.
Sleeping and cooking in a castle
Lo Schloss Freudenstein it stands on a private hill, surrounded by an 8 thousand square meter garden that extends down to the valley and includes a private golf course. Framed by centuries-old nature, the castle is surrounded by vineyards as far as the eye can see.
The guests of the 16 suites, here, can learn to play the piano with the hostess, attend language courses or cooking classes with Danilo D'Ambra, a young chef with a cosmopolitan spirit, able to wisely blend the traditions of Campania cuisine. , of origin, with those of South Tyrolean cuisine. Rates from 280 euros per Suite / night with breakfast, served in the Suite.
Pennes Pass
From Bolzano we take the SS508 and climb towards Sarentino, which we reach after about 20 kilometers. From Sarentino begins the climb towards Pennes Pass, which must be approached with caution since the slope can even reach 13%, as we pass from the 948 meters of Sarentino to the 2.211 meters of the actual pass. The road is not recent and in some places steep. At the top, a breathtaking panorama awaits us and a refuge where we can refresh ourselves. The descent, which alternates the SS508 with the final SS44, takes us to our final destination.
Sterzing
Sterzing is one of the most beautiful historical centers in Italy and one of the pearls ofSouth Tyrol. A medieval city center, famous for Tower of the Twelve which divides the historic side of the center from the more recent one. From here you can also stretch instead towards the South West, towards Giovo Pass e Timmelsjoch.
Where to sleep in the center
THEHotel Engels Park - Happy Heart is located in the historic center of Sterzing, the northernmost city in Italy and a bridge between South Tyrolean, German and Italian culture, the perfect starting point for exploring South Tyrol and the most beautiful areas of Tyrol.
The Engels Park Hotel is a real urban oasis. A widespread hotel, surrounded by nature, where you can disconnect from the chaos or enjoy the sauna in the wooden house protected by centuries-old trees, perfect after the abrupt return to work after the summer holidays or when you want a weekend of total relaxation. Rates from 100 Euros per person with a rich breakfast.
Chiusa and the Passo delle Erbe
If, on the other hand, you prefer to take the SS12 del Brenner, you can head to the spectacular Herb Pass, through the splendid village of Closed, famous for the Sabiona Monastery, a Benedictine abbey that has dominated the city for centuries. The historic center of the village is picturesque and charming, ideal for a walk through narrow alleys, sumptuous buildings and shops, and to enjoy a coffee with a slice of strudel in one of the many places with pleasant outdoor tables.
The town is very popular even in autumn with a riot of colors, pleasant temperatures, peasant delicacies in the cellar and on the table. After the first cold comes "theIndian summer”, Which is a period of mild temperatures and good weather that usually lasts until 7 November.
Dream suite and kitchen
Steinbock Castle: in a nutshell luxury and free spaces for free spirits: 12 Suites, 3 restaurants, in a 1750 estate. good retreat devoted to pleasure, today a project of life, passion and vision. Going back to its origins, this historic place reveals its roots under the motto "quality not quantity".
The courageous renovation has given birth to a new exclusivity: in April 2022 Elisabeth, the hostess, reopens the doors of her residence which houses only 12 elegant suites, giving a warm welcome to individualists who love the pleasures of life. The refined gastronomy of the restaurant is finally the icing on the cake of a stop in the ancient Stube of the castle. Rates from 330 euros per Suite / night with breakfast served in the Suite.
