Val d'Ultimo

Val d'Ultimo is a valley located in the Italian region of South Tyrol, characterized by breathtaking landscapes, lush forests and green meadows. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and for being surrounded by the unspoiled nature of the Alps, Val d'Ultimo is an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and quiet.

Its picturesque alpine villages offer an authentic experience, where you can discover local traditions and enjoy typical South Tyrolean cuisine. Lovers of nature and outdoor sports will find numerous hiking and biking trails to explore, giving themselves moments of pure beauty and serenity.

The Valley

The charm of Val d'Ultimo lies in its unspoiled nature that constantly accompanies the visitor from S. Pancrazio eastward along the entire valley to the villages of S. Valburga, S. Nicolò and S. Geltrude in the Stelvio National Park among steep meadows, dense forests and crystal-clear lakes. Paths lined with handmade larch fences lead hikers to the conquest of the most beautiful peaks of the Ortler group. Traditional farmsteads peep out on the green meadows and pastures, and still today the locals care for and live their customs and traditions, showing a strong attachment to nature: the farmers manage the mountain pastures as tradition handed down from generation to generation dictates, and in the mountain huts dishes prepared with local and seasonal ingredients are put on the table. The valley is deeply attached to its traditions. Many events in Val d'Ultimo celebrate the valley's farming culture as a treasure handed down from generation to generation.

The Ultner Genuss culinary festival invites people to taste regional specialties at the most beautiful places in the heart of the unspoiled nature of Val d'Ultimo. Farmers from Val d'Ultimo and neighboring Alta Val di Non offer their quality products at the Zuanochten farmers' market. Along with speck and wine, items made of wood and wool are also popular. A prominent sporting event in Val d'Ultimo is the farmstead race at the end of July: the ideal opportunity to combine sport with the pleasures of good food.

What to see in Val d'Ultimo

In Val d'Ultimo, visitors can explore a rich mosaic of cultural attractions, including historic churches and chapels that offer a glimpse into the region's religious and architectural heritage. These sacred sites not only showcase the intricate craftsmanship and design of past eras, but also provide a quiet space for reflection and contemplation. Notable monuments include the parish church dedicated to St. Pancras and the enchanting chapel of St. Sebastian, each of which exudes a sense of idyllic beauty characteristic of Val d'Ultimo. Walking along the picturesque paths leading to these architectural gems allows visitors to immerse themselves in the history and spirituality of the region.

For those interested in learning more about the traditional crafts and art of Val d'Ultimo, local museums offer a fascinating journey through the valley's cultural heritage:

• Culten Museum: The "Culten" documentation center, located on the hill of St. Walburga Church in Val d'Ultimo, opened its doors in spring 2018. The center's space is divided into three sections. The first will house the documentation center proper, which offers evidence of what the habitat populated by prehistoric humans who lived in the area of today's Ulten Valley during the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages looked like. The second section of the "Culten" documentation center is represented by the old F'Hochhaus farmstead, a typical wooden interlocking construction from the 15th century. The adjacent hut, still inhabited in the 20th century, was removed with great care during the reconstruction of the building and rebuilt in the "Culten" documentation center, about 50 meters from the original location. The last section consists of an outdoor area, which will show a cultivation of typical Ultimo Valley crops and invite visitors to linger and relax.
• Ultimo Valley Ethnographic Museum: Set up as early as 1973, the Ultimo Valley Ethnographic Museum stands within the walls of the former school in the center of St. Nicholas. This museum gives back an insight into the development of folk art and peasant culture in the valley.

Immersing yourself in the lively traditions and celebrations of Val d'Ultimo is an enchanting way to experience local culture firsthand. The region hosts a variety of traditional festivals and events that showcase the rich fabric of costumes, music and culinary delights unique to Val d'Ultimo. Whether attending the Blossom Festival in Lana, the St. Pancras Parish Festival, or participating in parades and sacred processions, visitors can witness the community spirit and cultural vibrancy that define life in Val d'Ultimo. These events offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of the region, inviting travelers to celebrate and cherish the diverse traditions that make Val d'Ultimo a truly fascinating destination.

Outdoor activities in Val d'Ultimo

Val d'Ultimo offers a myriad of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts, including a variety of hiking and trekking trails that cater to different skill levels and preferences. From leisurely walks to challenging hikes, the valley offers a wide range of options for exploring its beautiful landscapes. For example, the S. Pancrazio Nature Trail, a 5-kilometer trail designed to showcase the rich biodiversity of Val d'Ultimo, offers a delightful experience for visitors eager to immerse themselves in nature. In addition, interactive maps highlighting the top 20 hiking and walking trails in the area can help adventurers plan their hikes and discover the beauty of the surroundings. Along these trails, hikers can encounter attractions such as the Kneipp trail, which provide a fun and educational experience for both adults and children.

For those seeking an adrenaline-filled adventure, Val d'Ultimo boasts a number of mountain bike trails that wind through its picturesque landscapes. Whether beginners or experienced cyclists, visitors can explore the valley's natural beauty on two wheels while enjoying the thrill of mountain biking. To facilitate the planning process, detailed information is available on the best MTB routes near Ultimo, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable cycling experience. Cyclists can enjoy the scenic beauty of Val d'Ultimo, passing iconic landmarks such as centuries-old larches and tranquil Lake Zoccolo, adding an extra layer of charm to their biking escapades. With options for different skill levels and preferences, mountain biking in Val d'Ultimo offers an exciting and engaging way to experience the natural wonders of the valley.

As winter blankets the landscape, Val d'Ultimo transforms into a winter wonderland, offering visitors a range of snow-related activities. Skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts can take advantage of the area's well-prepared slopes, which feature easy to medium-level runs suitable for a variety of abilities. Away from the crowds, visitors can also engage in ski mountaineering adventures, immersing themselves in pristine winter scenery and exploring off-the-beaten-path trails. The ski slopes of Val d'Ultimo provide a compelling challenge for winter sports enthusiasts, offering an exhilarating experience against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks and serene valleys. Whether gliding down the slopes or venturing inland, winter in Val d'Ultimo offers a magical playground for snow lovers seeking adventure and tranquility.