Recommended accommodatin
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*** Hotel Sylvanerhof, Klausen |
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** Garni Pramstrahler, Gufidaun |
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Klausen, the famous town with its famous inhabitants
The community with its 4377 inhabitants is situated at the edge of the Eisack Valley, below the venerable Monastery of Saeben. From this fortified rock the bishop Nikolaus Cusanus ruled over most parts of South Tyrol. Nowadays the convent is inhabited by nuns and also serves as an educational centre.
Klausen is famous to far beyond its borders, because of its reputation for producing great artists as well as magnificent artistic works. Albrecht Dürer immortalised Klausen in his piece 'Das große Glück' (Great Luck). While walking about in the ancient town centre, you will come across many a terrific façade and Gothic churches hidden in a maze of intricate lanes nearly everywhere between the typically inviting South Tyrolean restaurants.
In the shadow of the Dolomites
The surrounding villages belong to the municipality of Klausen and are very appealing for long hikes through soft green fields past flavoursome vineyards, the mighty Dolomites constantly at your side on whatever path or in whatever direction you may choose to go - their high peaks tower so high above the place, it is virtually impossible to get out of their sight. Strolling along the huge chestnut groves at the same time should be sufficient to make your mouth water and think of the traditional festivals, where all the local delicacies are sold and served - especially so in autumn.It is highly recommendable to enjoy any such festivity on a culturally interesting homestead which are easily accessible on foot. These farm yards with their carved quarters and rooms idyllically fit into the setting and also represent a remarkable amount of cultural heritage.
The great tradition of törggelen
But there is one attraction in particular, and that is waiting for a farmer to serve you the local specialities, such as Sauerkraut (sour cabbage), Hauswurst (homemade sausages or meat), Selchkarree (cold platters) along with freshly roasted chestnuts and fresh wine or (mulled) claret.
Activities for five seasons
If you are into winter sports, then any of the following three major skiing resorts in the area will certainly catch your interest: Groeden (Val Badia), the Paisture of Seis (Seiser Alm) or the skiing resort of Brixen all offer very modern, yet challenging slopes. There are also innumerable cross-country ski slopes within easy reach. Snow hikes and ski tours are available everywhere in and around Klausen and you can pursue almost any kind of sport during all seasons. Especially with its 'fifth season' (indeed a very particular feature of the Eisack Valley) - the time to celebrate the traditional festivals, it will make a most memorable experience of your vacation.