Soprabolzano Oberbozen
A sun-drenched plateau above Bolzano, offering breathtaking Dolomite views via scenic cable car and historic railway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blooming nature, fewer crowds
Soprabolzano Oberbozen
Best Time
Blooming nature, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sun-drenched plateau above Bolzano, offering breathtaking Dolomite views via scenic cable car and historic railway.
"The Ritten Cable Car and Railway offer a magical journey to a tranquil alpine paradise."
🚡 Cable Car & Train Combo
Take the Ritten Cable Car from Bolzano to Oberbozen, then hop on the scenic Ritten Railway to explore other villages.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for exploring the plateau's trails and charming villages.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ritten Cable Car Ride
Bolzano to Oberbozen
Ascend from Bolzano to Oberbozen via a scenic cable car, offering panoramic views of the Dolomites.
Ritten Railway
Oberbozen to Klobenstein/Collalbo
A charming historic narrow-gauge railway connecting villages on the Ritten plateau.
Earth Pyramids of Ritten
Near Unterinn/Aun
Unique natural formations sculpted by erosion, creating striking pillar-like structures.
Castel Roncolo (Runkelstein Castle)
Near Bolzano, accessible from Soprabolzano
A medieval castle adorned with impressive secular frescoes, offering a glimpse into history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Scenic Journey
Best Footwear for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚡 Cable Car & Train Combo
Take the Ritten Cable Car from Bolzano to Oberbozen, then hop on the scenic Ritten Railway to explore other villages.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for exploring the plateau's trails and charming villages.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramic vistas of the Dolomites and picturesque landscapes.
🗣️ Multilingual Area
Expect to hear Italian, German, and Ladin. English is widely understood.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚡 Cable Car & Train Combo
Take the Ritten Cable Car from Bolzano to Oberbozen, then hop on the scenic Ritten Railway to explore other villages.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for exploring the plateau's trails and charming villages.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramic vistas of the Dolomites and picturesque landscapes.
🗣️ Multilingual Area
Expect to hear Italian, German, and Ladin. English is widely understood.
🍯 Bee Museum Visit
Don't miss the Apiculture Museum at Costalovara, a unique local attraction.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking scenery and the unique travel experience offered by the Ritten Cable Car and Railway. The charming villages and natural wonders like the Earth Pyramids are consistently praised. Some find the public transport schedules a bit limited outside peak hours.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most scenic route is to take the Ritten Cable Car (Funivia del Renon) from Bolzano to Oberbozen. The cable car runs frequently and offers spectacular views. 
Yes, after arriving in Oberbozen, you can take the historic Ritten Railway (Renon Railway) to explore other villages like Klobenstein and Collalbo. +1
While driving is possible, parking can be limited, especially during peak season. The cable car and train are highly recommended for a more relaxed experience.
The Ritten Cable Car typically runs every 4 minutes, making it a convenient and efficient way to reach the plateau.
Consider purchasing a regional travel pass like the RittenCard or a similar tourist pass for unlimited use of public transport in the area, including the cable car and Ritten Railway. Check local tourism websites for current options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, tickets are required for the Ritten Cable Car. You can purchase them at the station in Bolzano. Consider a travel pass for cost savings if you plan to use public transport extensively.
Ticket prices can vary, but it's generally an affordable journey. It's best to check the official SAD (Südtiroler Transport AG) website or the Bolzano tourism office for the most up-to-date pricing.
The Earth Pyramids are a natural phenomenon and generally accessible without an entrance fee. However, there might be designated viewing areas or paths with small charges. It's advisable to check locally.
Castel Roncolo has specific opening hours that vary by season. It's recommended to check the official website for the most current information before your visit.
Often, regional travel passes include unlimited travel on the Ritten Railway. Confirm this when purchasing your pass to maximize your benefits.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy the scenic Ritten Cable Car and Railway, hike to the Earth Pyramids, visit Castel Roncolo, and explore the charming villages. +1
Absolutely! The Ritten plateau offers numerous hiking trails for all levels, with stunning views of the Dolomites. The Sentiero del Castagno (Chestnut Path) is a popular choice.
Located near Costalovara, this museum offers insights into beekeeping traditions in the region, housed in a historic farmhouse.
It's a photographer's paradise! Capture the dramatic mountain landscapes, charming villages, historic trains, and unique natural formations like the Earth Pyramids.
The weather can change quickly in the mountains. Summers are pleasant, while autumn offers beautiful colors. Winters can be cold with snow. Always check the forecast before your visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find charming Gasthäuser and restaurants offering local South Tyrolean cuisine, often with stunning mountain views. Look for places like Gasthaus Babsi or Hotel Latemar for dining options.
Savor regional specialties like Schlutzkrapfen (spinach and ricotta ravioli), Speck (cured ham), and various apple-based desserts, reflecting the area's Austrian and Italian influences.
Many restaurants are becoming more accommodating. It's advisable to inquire about vegetarian or vegan options when ordering, as traditional South Tyrolean cuisine can be meat-heavy.
Yes, you can find local bakeries offering fresh bread and pastries. Natur Bäckerei Messner is one such establishment.
Restaurants usually serve lunch from around noon to 2 PM and dinner from 6 PM to 9 PM. Some may close between lunch and dinner services.
📸 📸 Photography
The Ritten Cable Car ascent, the Ritten Railway, the Earth Pyramids, and panoramic viewpoints of the Dolomites are prime photography locations.
Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh but is good for capturing details.
While dedicated photography tours might be rare, local guides can often tailor excursions to include the best scenic spots. Inquire at local tourist information centers.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture distant mountain peaks. A tripod is useful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Yes, you can take photos from the train and at the stations. Be mindful of other passengers and operational safety.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Exploring the Earth Pyramids can spark imagination, and many of the hiking trails are gentle enough for families with young children. Consider a visit to the Apiculture Museum at Costalovara, which offers an educational and engaging look at bees and honey production.
Pack snacks and drinks, and ensure everyone has comfortable shoes for exploring the scenic paths.🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
The panoramic views of the Dolomites are a constant reward. Beyond hiking, the natural beauty of the Earth Pyramids is a must-see geological wonder. The crisp mountain air and expansive landscapes provide an ideal setting for reconnecting with nature. Remember to check weather conditions, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
📸 Photographers
The Ritten Railway provides charming scenes of vintage trains against picturesque backdrops. +1The Earth Pyramids are a unique subject, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the light casts dramatic shadows. The charming villages, with their traditional architecture and colorful flowers, also make for beautiful compositions.
+1 Don't forget to capture the vibrant autumn foliage if you visit during that season. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ritten Plateau Experience
+1The plateau is renowned for its unique geological formations, most notably the Earth Pyramids of Ritten. These striking natural pillars, formed by erosion, are a testament to the power of nature and a fascinating sight to behold. Exploring the network of well-maintained hiking trails is a must, offering opportunities to discover hidden hamlets, lush meadows, and stunning vistas at every turn. The Sentiero del Castagno (Chestnut Path) is a particularly popular route, showcasing the region's autumnal beauty.
Beyond its natural wonders, the Ritten plateau boasts a rich cultural heritage. The Ritten Railway, a historic narrow-gauge train, connects the villages and provides a nostalgic travel experience. Visitors can also explore historical sites like Castel Roncolo (Runkelstein Castle), famous for its medieval frescoes, and discover local traditions at places like the Apiculture Museum. The blend of natural splendor, historical sites, and a relaxed alpine lifestyle makes Soprabolzano Oberbozen a truly special destination.
Navigating Soprabolzano Oberbozen: Transport & Accessibility
+1Once you reach Oberbozen, the Ritten Railway (Renon Railway) becomes your main mode of transport for exploring the plateau. This charming narrow-gauge train connects Oberbozen with other villages like Klobenstein and Collalbo. The railway itself is a historical attraction, offering a leisurely way to travel between picturesque hamlets.
For those who prefer to explore on foot, the Ritten plateau is crisscrossed with well-marked hiking trails. These range from easy strolls through meadows and forests to more challenging mountain hikes. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
While driving is an option, parking can be scarce in the villages, making public transport and walking the most convenient and enjoyable ways to experience Soprabolzano Oberbozen. Consider purchasing a regional travel pass for seamless access to all modes of transport.Culinary Delights of South Tyrol
Many restaurants and 'Gasthäuser' (inns) on the Ritten plateau offer traditional South Tyrolean fare. You can find establishments like Gasthaus Babsi and Hotel Latemar serving local specialties. Don't miss out on trying regional wines, such as Schiava, often paired with these hearty meals.
+1For those with a sweet tooth, apple strudel and other apple-based desserts are common, given the region's apple orchards. Local bakeries, like Natur Bäckerei Messner, provide fresh bread and pastries for a quick bite.
When dining, be aware that while many places are accommodating, traditional menus can be meat-centric, so inquiring about vegetarian or vegan options is advisable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit