The recipe for happiness in a South Tyrolean autumn? Wine, chestnuts, crisp air and sunshine. Today we’re putting that formula to the test on the Ritten, and enjoying autumn with all our senses on a walk through chestnut groves and vineyards.

Wine as far as the eye can see: from 260 metres in Bolzano up to around 900 metres, the vineyards of the Ritten welcome visitors as they arrive. Today’s pleasure hike begins a little higher up, though—at Lichtenstern, by the stop of the charming narrow-gauge railway. Franz Wenter, South Tyrolean ambassador of good taste and our hiking guide for the day, has brought with him glorious imperial weather. He’s also brought a glass of wine for everyone—essential for the tastings ahead. But no effort, no reward—so first, we walk.

We pass through meadows and deciduous forests glowing in autumn colours, by the Bee Museum and the Wolfsgrubener Lake, and continue down toward Unterinn. The view over the village and the mountains beyond couldn’t be more beautiful: the Sciliar, Catinaccio, Latemar, Weißhorn and Schwarzhorn greet us from afar.

It’s time for our first break, and Franz opens a bottle of Pinot Blanc. The experienced sommelier explains what to look for in a wine and how to taste it properly. The group’s verdict is unanimous: with a view like this, wine tastes even better than it already does.

In the heart of the "Magdalener" wine-growing area
After a good hour, we set off again for the final stretch to Bolzano. From here on, we walk continuously through vineyards, and we can’t get enough of the vibrant colours. We taste the wine two more times—now it's time for the reds: a St. Magdalener and a Lagrein. Along the way, we pass the small church of St. Justina and several farms in the famous Magdalener area.
Wine thrives here because late summer brings warm days and cool nights—ideal conditions. The quality may also be due to the fact that in South Tyrol, many winegrowers work part-time and manage on average just 1.5 hectares.
Are you familiar with the “Rebe” themed trail, the wine trail on the sunny slopes between Signat and Bolzano? Everything here is done by hand and with great care. Our own love for this beautiful region knows no bounds, and we can confirm: the formula for happiness is absolutely right!

You can find the dates for the guided hikes in the event calendar.