Renon High Plateau Bolzano
A serene high plateau above Bolzano, offering breathtaking Dolomite views, charming villages, and unique Earth Pyramids accessible by scenic cable car...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Renon High Plateau Bolzano
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene high plateau above Bolzano, offering breathtaking Dolomite views, charming villages, and unique Earth Pyramids accessible by scenic cable car and train.
"The Renon High Plateau is a true gem, offering tranquility and well-being amidst stunning Alpine landscapes."
🎒 Pack Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking to explore the plateau and its natural wonders. :athletic_shoe:
💳 Get the Ritten Card
It's your key to free public transport and discounts – a must-have for exploring! :credit_card:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Renon Cable Car
Bolzano to Soprabolzano
Ascend from Bolzano for breathtaking panoramic views of the Dolomites and the plateau.
Renon Train
Collalbo to Soprabolzano
A historic, scenic ride through meadows and forests, connecting charming villages.
Earth Pyramids
Various locations on the plateau
Unique natural formations of clay and stone, sculpted by erosion.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Beyond the Car
Embrace the Ritten Card
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking to explore the plateau and its natural wonders. :athletic_shoe:
💳 Get the Ritten Card
It's your key to free public transport and discounts – a must-have for exploring! :credit_card:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, especially from the cable car and hiking trails.
🌳 Explore the Earth Pyramids
These natural wonders are a unique sight and worth the easy hikes to find them.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking to explore the plateau and its natural wonders. :athletic_shoe:
💳 Get the Ritten Card
It's your key to free public transport and discounts – a must-have for exploring! :credit_card:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, especially from the cable car and hiking trails.
🌳 Explore the Earth Pyramids
These natural wonders are a unique sight and worth the easy hikes to find them.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Renon High Plateau's breathtaking natural beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and excellent accessibility from Bolzano. The scenic cable car and historic train are highlights, offering stunning Dolomite views. It's praised as an ideal destination for families and nature lovers seeking relaxation and outdoor activities.
"Beautiful plateau just north of Bolzano, this of Ritten-Renon is an area where tranquility and well-being reign, all linked to the natural beauty of the Alpine landscape, where, in the small villages that are found along the route, you can see the particular attention to respect for the territory... a very pleasant place in summer, an ideal destination for families who can enjoy wonderful days here in the green meadows and woods, on foot or by mountain bike, it can be reached by 3 routes, the first of which (the convenient...) starts from the ring road next to the Isarco river in Bolzano; the second one is taken at the roundabout after the tunnels at the beginning of Val Sarentino, about ten km outside the South Tyrolean capital, on the right towards Auna di Sopra/Ritten/Renon, with a decidedly steeper and more winding road, fun on a motorbike, to be traveled carefully by car; third route again from the Isarco Valley, at the height of Ponte Gardena and going up from Barbiano, with a narrower roadway which in small sections allows the alternating passage of only one vehicle (even motorbikes/cars do not pass...), a road which enjoys a wonderful view of the underlying Isarco Valley and the Sciliar plateau, which can be admired on the opposite side of the aforementioned Valley... Enchantment, Wellbeing, Relaxation."
Maurizio Scalmana
"Leaving behind us the panoramic cable car that takes us from Bolzano to the upper part of the city...we take the charming Renon train, which since the early 1900s was used to reach the holiday homes. The view from the train is beautiful, meadows and woods on one side and on the other the wonderful Dolomites that frame it.. Arriving in Collalto we are welcomed by wonderful valleys... huts and churches.. following the path that leads to the Stone Pyramids we arrive at this marvelous work of nature."
Sun Rise
"Beautiful, in addition to the visit to the pyramids I recommend continuing to the 3 vie (the bus is very convenient) and taking the cable car that takes you to the panoramic path... a spectacle"
Marinella Salvoni
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most scenic and convenient way is to take the Renon Cable Car (Funivia del Renon) from Bolzano. It offers spectacular views as you ascend to Soprabolzano.
Absolutely! The Renon High Plateau is designed for car-free exploration. The cable car and the local Renon train connect the villages, and the Ritten Card provides free public transport.
It's a modern cable car system that connects the city of Bolzano with the high plateau of Renon (Ritten), offering a quick and breathtaking journey with panoramic views.
The cable car ride from Bolzano to Soprabolzano typically takes about 10-15 minutes, providing stunning aerial views along the way.
Yes, there are two other driving routes: one from the Isarco river near Bolzano, and another from the Isarco Valley via Barbiano. These roads can be steeper and narrower.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you will need a ticket for the Renon Cable Car. It's advisable to check current prices and purchase options in advance, especially during peak season. +1
The Ritten Card is a visitor card that offers free use of public transport on the plateau, free entry to museums, and discounts on various activities. Many visitors find it highly valuable for exploring the area.
The Renon train ticket costs around €3.50 for a single journey, but if you have the Ritten Card, public transport on the plateau is usually included.
Generally, viewing the Earth Pyramids is free as they are natural formations. However, access to certain viewing points or guided tours might incur a small fee.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official websites for the Renon Cable Car and Renon Train for the most up-to-date schedules before your visit. +1
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the Renon Train, the unique Earth Pyramids, charming villages like Collalbo and Soprabolzano, and numerous hiking trails with stunning Dolomite views. +1
Yes, Renon is a hiker's paradise with well-marked trails suitable for all levels, from easy strolls to more challenging routes, offering incredible mountain scenery.
These are fascinating natural geological formations consisting of clay pillars topped with a stone, sculpted by natural erosion over centuries.
Definitely! The plateau offers gentle trails, playgrounds, and the charming Renon train, making it an ideal destination for family outings.
You can expect breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Alpine landscape, including the majestic Dolomites, lush meadows, and picturesque valleys.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Look for local South Tyrolean specialties like speck (smoked ham), regional cheeses, hearty dumplings (canederli), and delicious apple strudel.
Yes, the villages on Renon offer a variety of restaurants and 'buschenschank' (traditional wine taverns) serving delicious local cuisine and wines.
While traditional South Tyrolean cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian dishes, often featuring local vegetables and cheeses.
Many mountain huts and restaurants on the plateau boast incredible panoramic views, making dining a truly memorable experience.
Bolzano has a vibrant culinary scene. For a taste of local history, consider dining at one of its oldest restaurants before your ascent.
📸 📸 Photography
The Renon Cable Car ascent, the Renon Train journey, the Earth Pyramids, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Dolomites are prime photography locations.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers magical light for capturing the landscapes. Midday can be bright but still offers stunning clarity of the mountains.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture distant Dolomite peaks. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Be mindful of private property and respect any signage regarding photography in specific locations.
Drone regulations vary by region and park. It's essential to check local laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone for aerial photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing picnic lunches to enjoy amidst the beautiful meadows, and look for playgrounds in the villages. The cable car ride itself is an exciting experience for kids, offering thrilling views as you ascend from Bolzano.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Opt for picnics with supplies bought from local markets in Bolzano or on the plateau to save on dining expenses. The Renon Train is also very affordable, especially when included with the Ritten Card.
📸 Photographers
+1 The Renon Train provides charming shots of the landscape and the vintage carriages themselves. Focus on capturing the interplay of light and shadow on the mountains, the textures of the Earth Pyramids, and the serene beauty of the alpine meadows. Wide-angle lenses are perfect for sweeping vistas, while telephoto lenses can isolate distant peaks.
Remember to check the weather for dramatic cloud formations that can enhance your landscape shots.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Renon Train
Travelers often describe the ride as incredibly scenic and relaxing. The slow pace allows you to truly appreciate the beauty of the South Tyrolean countryside. It's a favorite among families and those seeking a peaceful escape from the bustle of Bolzano.
Tips for Riding the Renon Train
* Sit by the window: Maximize your views by securing a window seat.
* Check the schedule: While frequent, it's wise to confirm departure times, especially outside peak season.
* Combine with hiking: Hop off at a station and explore a trail, then catch the train to the next village.
Discovering the Earth Pyramids
+1 They are found in several locations on the plateau, with the most famous being near Longomoso and Auna di Sotto. The process of their formation is slow and ongoing, with rain and frost gradually shaping the soft clay while the capstone protects the pillar beneath. Exploring the Earth Pyramids involves pleasant walks through the natural surroundings. Trails are generally well-maintained and suitable for families, offering a chance to connect with nature while marveling at these extraordinary geological features.
Many visitors find the sight awe-inspiring and a testament to the power of natural forces. Visiting the Earth Pyramids
* Wear sturdy shoes: The paths can be uneven in places.
* Go after rain: The pyramids can appear even more dramatic after rainfall.
* Combine with other sights: Many trails leading to the pyramids also offer beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Bolzano as a Gateway to the Dolomites
What makes Bolzano particularly appealing for Dolomites exploration is its excellent public transport connectivity. You can easily reach the Renon High Plateau directly from the city via cable car, offering immediate access to stunning mountain scenery without needing a car.
Bolzano's Advantages for Dolomites Visitors
* Easy access: Direct cable car to Renon and good train connections.
* Cultural experience: Enjoy the unique South Tyrolean atmosphere before or after your mountain adventures.
* Car-free options: Ideal for travelers who prefer not to drive.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit