Spring in Val Pusteria: 5 picturesque villages for food lovers

Spring in Val Pusteria: why go now

Val Pusteria is an excellent spring destination: mountains and lakes come alive, trails are accessible and historic villages protect a rich alpine culinary heritage. This guide highlights five villages where nature walks meet traditional flavors.

The 5 villages you should visit

San Candido (Innichen)

A medieval village beneath the Dolomites, great as a starting point for hikes to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Visit the Collegiate Church of San Candido and nearby alpine paths. Typical dishes to try include speck dumplings (canederli), spinach spätzle and apple strudel.

• Practical tip: park near the old town and set off early on trails to avoid weekend crowds.
• Where to eat: mountain huts and traditional restaurants offering Tyrolean cuisine.

Brunico (Bruneck)

The lively valley capital with a well-preserved historic center and a castle hosting alpine exhibitions. Brunico combines culture and gastronomy: taste tirtlan (filled fritters), schlutzkrapfen and the fried dessert strauben.

• Highlight: Brunico Castle and local museums.
• Tip: check local markets for artisanal products and regional specialties.

Dobbiaco (Toblach)

Known as the gateway to the Dolomites, Dobbiaco is ideal for lake walks and forest trails: Lago di Dobbiaco and Lago di Landro are calm spring destinations. Regional specialties include Toblach cheese (Stanga), venison goulash and Zelten fruit cake.

• Practical tip: add a loop around the lakes to enjoy spring flora and birdlife.
• Where to eat: restaurants blending tradition and modern cooking.

Villabassa (Niederdorf)

A historic spa town known for Kneipp paths and cycling routes such as the Dolomiti Superbike. Local dishes to try are potato tortei, filled krapfen and barley soup (gerstlsuppe).

• Attractions: Kurpark and wellness trails; mountain-bike itineraries.
• Advice: reserve tables in traditional inns during spring weekends.

Anterselva (Rasun-Anterselva)

Small village famous for biathlon events and the scenic Lake Anterselva—stunning in spring. Traditional plates include gröstl (pan-fried potatoes with speck and egg), tosèla cheese dishes and buchteln for dessert.

• Don’t miss: lakeside walks and alpine pasture trails.
• Note: when sporting events are on, check schedules to avoid high visitor numbers.

Practical tips for visiting

• Prefer late spring (May–June) for mild weather and blossoming landscapes.
• Bring light hiking shoes and layered clothing: mountain weather changes quickly.
• Support local producers: many villages focus on zero‑kilometre products and handcrafted specialties.
• Book restaurants in advance if you plan to dine in popular inns or mountain huts.

Val Pusteria in spring offers a balanced mix of nature, history and authentic food: pick one of these villages as a base to discover trails, lakes and traditional alpine cuisine.