Appiano

A land of romantic castles, rolling valleys in verdant greens, plentiful homegrown fruit and veg, all wrapped in rewarding vines that produce very drinkable appellations – Appiano (Eppan) is a place where wholesome goodness flows down from the lofty, snow-dusted Italian Dolomites that frame this market town. With a mix of gothic and Renaissance architecture, the area is also known for its extravagance of castles – rumoured to be around 180.

Just 10 kms from South Tyrol’s’ capital Bolzano, Appiano is an attractive place to live or visit, clasped picturesquely to the Mendola mountain range. In fact, findings indicate that this area was enjoyed by humankind thousands of years ago, archaeological digs have shown that there were settlers here in the Bronze Age. There’s even research to show that Appiano was a stop on the famous Via Claudia Augusta, the ancient Roman road which traverses the Alps through southern Germany, Austria and Italy.

Today this route is favoured by hikers and bikers although some are just as likely to try the possibly more appealing South Tyrolean Wine Route – showcasing the oldest vines of Italy which today produce merlot, lagrein, pinot gris and chardonnay. In summer there are many joyful festivals to celebrate the area’s wonderful wine production such as the Wine Culture Weeks and Wine Cellar Festival.

In winter, when snow begins to drape the slopes, it’s a sign to locals and visitors alike to get the skis out; Appiano also has the scenic tradition of ice-skating on the frozen Lake Monticolo. Whether you come for winter or summer, wine or Schloss, Appiano is a fun getaway of altitudinous appeal.