Merano and environs
It is certainly not an exaggeration to call the Merano area a natural paradise, a longed for holiday destination in a valley between Venosta and Passiria valleys.
The town passed from a period of great splendour (in the fifteenth century its borders extended as far as the shores of Garda Lake) into a stage of intense crisis and economic depression under Austro-Hungarian rule (it is enough to say that it used to be called "the cows’ town" because entire herds had been allowed to graze under its arcades). It was however under this domination that Merano rose again and turned into the renowned tourist centre of today.
The Pre-alpine climate characteristic of the area and the fascinating beauty of its landscapes offer numerous opportunities as far as excursions and sport activities are concerned.
There are numerous pleasant walks along the banks of Passirio, in the wide, green extents of the parks or along the lanes winding among noble residences, castles and farms, through vineyards and villages... one is bound to breathe the magical atmosphere of the past.
Traditions are brought to life again by the local administrations with an intense cultural life: music weeks, exhibitions, visits to museums and castles, concerts and festivals enrich a stay characterized by good taste, relaxation and enchanting landscapes.
If Merano deserves particular attention for its traditions and attractions, its surroundings as well draw a lot of visitors by offering peace and quiet.
In the outskirts, a visit is certainly worth to Sissi's Gardens in Castel Trauttmansdorff, which are particularly interesting from an historic and naturalistic point of view. Among the various destinations of the area we must mention the Val Senales, the "Gruppo del Tessa" National Park, the village of Marlengo/Marling.
This latest is situated in a wonderful position with a view over Merano and represents a particularly interesting centre both for mountaineers who like to "venture" on the peaks, and for those who wish to spend a completely relaxing holiday.
Mountain lovers will have the chance to spend some days within an unpolluted nature also in Avelengo/Hafling (10 km from Merano), where kindness and hospitality are the rule, and Verano (1200 m above sea-level).
