Spring in Val Pusteria: 5 flavourful villages to visit

Spring in Val Pusteria: villages, nature and local flavours

Located between the Dolomites and the Zillertal Alps, Val Pusteria is a perfect spring destination for scenic walks, historic centres and a food culture rooted in alpine tradition. Here are five villages to include in a route that blends hiking, culture and tasting of local products.

San Candido (Innichen)

This medieval village at the foot of the Rondoi-Baranci massif offers a compact historic centre and the impressive Romanesque collegiate church. San Candido is an ideal base for excursions to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo and short panoramic walks.

What to taste:

• Canederli allo speck and spätzle: typical hearty alpine dishes.
• Apple strudel: a classic dessert of the region.

Brunico (Bruneck)

The lively valley capital combines a well-kept historic centre with cultural offerings and museums. Brunico Castle hosts exhibits about mountain communities and provides wide views over the valley.

Local specialties:

• Tirtlan: stuffed fritters (ricotta and spinach or sauerkraut).
• Schlutzkrapfen: thin ravioli filled with ricotta and spinach; and Strauben, a traditional spiral fried sweet.

Dobbiaco (Toblach)

Known as the gateway to the Dolomites, Dobbiaco is surrounded by lakes and nature parks—perfect for hiking and quiet spring days. The village has a musical heritage linked to Gustav Mahler and peaceful lakeside scenery.

Local products:

• Stanga (Toblacher Stangenkäse): the area’s characteristic cheese.
• Game dishes and spiced fruit cakes like Zelten.

Villabassa (Niederdorf)

Known for therapeutic routes and wellness areas, Villabassa also serves as a starting point for many MTB tracks and hiking trails. The Kurpark and Kneipp facilities are ideal for recuperation after outdoor activities.

Typical dishes:

• Potato tortei and gerstlsuppe (barley soup): rustic and comforting.
• Krapfen: fried pastries filled with jam or chestnut cream.

Rasun-Anterselva (Rasun/Anterselva)

This small village set among forests and meadows is perfect for those seeking less crowded trails and artisanal dairy products. Its location makes it a quiet starting point for hikes in the Dolomites of Sesto.

To try:

• Local cheeses and preparations featuring speck and cereals.
• Seasonal dishes made with ingredients from nearby farms.

Practical tips

• Best time: spring (late March to June) brings milder weather and easier trails without peak-season crowds.
• Getting around: the valley has road and bus connections; renting a bike is convenient for short trips between neighbouring villages.
• Packing: sturdy walking shoes, a windproof jacket and a guide to local products will help you make the most of the culinary discoveries.

A spring trip through Val Pusteria combines alpine scenery, historic centres and genuine flavours—ideal for travellers who want to experience authentic village life and local gastronomy.