Lagundo

Known as the garden village, Lagundo or Algund, is located alongside Merano and is 25 kilometres northwest of Bolzano, clasped by the peaks of the South Tyrol and overlaid by the trappings of simple, uncomplicated and wholesome living found in these parts of Italy. Characterised by seemingly endless vineyards, exotic orchards and mountain pathways, Algund is attributed with over 300 days of sunshine and every season brings its own charm.

Despite the distracting pleasures of the mountains in winter and summer from hiking to skiing, Algund itself is worth a wander. Admire the rich symbolism, and the fusing of old and new architecture at the San Giuseppe Parish Church, designed by the famous architect Dr. Willy Gutweniger in 1966. You might also want to pop into the oldest brewery in South Tyrol – Forst Brewery, known for its high quality of ingredients brewed by expert brew-masters to create a range of beers from crisp lagers to malty wheat beers. There are also two scenic walking routes that pass through Algund including the Tappeinerweg lined with Mediterranean plants and Algunder Waalweg, which follows the old irrigation channel and takes you around the topographical delights of the area: forests, vineyards, rocky passageways and apple tree meadows. And if you ever tire of the lush landscapes, the spa town of Merano is a cycle ride away to explore Gothic churches, stone bridges and of course the mineral-rich thermal waters to enjoy.