Getting a taste of village life is easy at the Hotel Gasthof Stern. The terrace looks straight out onto the village square, locals gather in the bar and restaurant, and just a few steps from the front door, you’re already part of everyday life in Nova Ponente.
Still, there’s more to discover beyond the village. Widen your horizon, and you’ll find the Eggental Dolomites – and beyond them, rolling vineyards, majestic wine cellars, and picturesque villages in the sun-kissed South Tyrolean lowlands of South Tyrol, where Alpine and Mediterranean flair meet.
The South Tyrolean capital of Bolzano is also just a 30-minute drive away. Alongside the regional government and university, it’s home to South Tyrol’s most important museums – most notably, the South Tyrolean Archaeological Museum, where the world-famous mummy Ötzi is on display. You can wander the medieval arcades, sample local delicacies at the colourful fruit market, or stroll the leafy promenades and soak in the city’s unique blend of Italian and German culture.
And if you’re up for more: about 30 kilometres northwest of Bolzano lies Merano, once the winter retreat of the Habsburg elite. Grand villas and elegant promenades still give this spa town its historic charm. Its own version of the arcade-lined shopping street – the “Laubengasse” – invites you to browse and linger. At the edge of town you’ll find Trauttmansdorff Castle, Empress Sissi’s former winter residence, now home to the Touriseum – a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of tourism in South Tyrol. The surrounding Trauttmansdorff Gardens are among the most beautiful in all of Italy.
So yes, shifting your focus is well worth it – even if you’ve already become part of our village rhythm.
As you can see, it’s worth shifting that focus upwards. However much you may have become a part of our village life.
