Cool tips for hot summer days in South Tyrol
To escape the worst of the heat in July and August in South Tyrol, it is often enough to hike, cycle or take the cable car up into the mountains. There is often a fresh breeze in the mountains and the temperatures are not as high as in the valley. But South Tyrol doesn't just offer a fantastic and varied mountain world. Wherever you are in South Tyrol, you are never far from the nearest beautiful swimming pool or natural bathing pond, and thus from the refreshing water you long for.
Gilfenklamm gorge
The approx. one-hour hike through the Gilfenklamm gorge is a great experience for the whole family and is highly recommended – or rather highly recommended – even if you have to pay an entrance fee. In the narrow gorge between the village of Stange and the hamlet of Jaufensteg, the roaring Ratschings stream between overhanging rock faces brings the natural power of the element of water to life. An impressive natural spectacle that not only delights children!
Partschins waterfall
Even higher than the waterfalls in the Gilfen gorge, the masses of water cascade down the Partschins waterfall – a full 97 metres. This natural monument is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Alps and spoils those suffering from the heat with a soothing microclimate. An adventure for the very brave: you can also book an abseiling tour with a professional mountain guide at Partschins waterfall.
Lake Antholz
There are many picturesque lakes in South Tyrol that are also suitable for swimming. Our favourite lake for hot July or August days is Lake Antholz. The mountain lake lies at an altitude of 1,642 metres: its water is not only turquoise blue, but also remains refreshingly cool even in the height of summer. You can even find a spot on the beautiful sunbathing lawn at the weekend. For late risers, the search for a car park can be difficult, but a short hike only makes the anticipation of swimming in the lake even greater.
Eppan ice holes
Icicles on crevices and air that is between 0 and 9 degrees centigrade – this can also be found on the hottest days of the year, not far from Lake Kaltern at the Eppan ice holes. This natural phenomenon is explained by the physical principle of the wind tunnel: warm air flows in at an upper opening in the porphyry debris there, cools down on the cold rock and sinks down. At a lower opening in the rock, the cold air flows out again and remains in a depression, as the cold air is heavier than the warm air above it. This hollow is around 200 metres long, 50 metres wide and 5 metres deep.
Passer gorge
A family-friendly hiking trail leads from St. Leonhard to Moos in Passeier through the wild and romantic Passer gorge. In addition to the direct route, there is also a slightly longer option via the Stieber waterfall. This detour is worthwhile, as is a visit to the Mooseum bunker in the village centre of Moos.
Refreshing adrenaline rush
And if you love a bit of a thrill, we have an additional recommendation: rafting, kayaking or canyoning offer cooling and action at the same time.