Exploring Trentino-Alto Adige and its natural beauties

A land of untouched beauty, thanks to stunning mountains and lakes, as well as a place where three different cultures have learnt how to live in harmony. These are the words used by the Australian magazine Italianiciousto describe Trentino Alto Adige, Italian northernmost region. A place that is usually "revered for its snow-capped mountains, lush valleys and impressive lakes, as it is for its castles and gorgeous little towns that play host to many festival and markets".

What is even more surprising for this region, is that even though it has been part of the Austrian Empire for centuries as its sovereignty was transferred to Italy only in 1919, after World War I, and its ownership has remained contended until a few decades ago, Trentino Alto Adige can offer today a perfect blending "of the Germanic, Italian and Ladin culture, which can be seen in everything from the language and food through the architecture". A perfect melting pot that should not be missed while travelling to Italy. Exploring the Lading culture is usually considered a unique experience as this culture belongs to the oldest permanent settlers of the Dolomites. Today, in places such as Val Gardena and Alta Badia, the inheritance of their traditions, as well as their language, are clearly recognizable.

Characterized by its countless mountains, valleys and lakes, among which Dolomites (Unesco World Heritage since 2009) and Lake Garda are only the most famous, not to mention "all those quaint little villages and imposing castles dotted in between, Trentino Alto Adige is a truly unique natural treasure far removed from Italy's beaten tourist track. The varied landscape make it an ideal escape any time of the year, perfect for skiing in winter and hiking in summer". In Christmas, there is another tradition that cannot be missed: the Christmas market, a carnival of food, traditions, crafts and, of course, Christmas decorations.

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