3 days at Lake Kaltern: enjoyment, nature and South Tyrolean lifestyle

We have visited the region around Lake Kaltern many times - and each time we have grown even more fond of it. Here we reveal our personal highlights, insider tips and favorite places that we discovered ourselves as a family and can recommend with full conviction.

Few places combine nature, pleasure and Mediterranean flair as charmingly as Lake Kaltern in the south of South Tyrol. Nestled in a beautiful mountain landscape and surrounded by vineyards, the region is an ideal destination for a dream weekend.

Whether hiking, wine tasting, swimming or simply slowing down - Lake Kaltern is an invitation to enjoy life more consciously. In this article, we take you on a 3-day trip between the lake, vineyards and South Tyrolean cuisine.

A touch of history

Not only scenic, but also historically exciting: the area was already inhabited in the Neolithic Age and later an important Roman road ran through here. Even today, castles, manor houses and old vineyards bear witness to a long and eventful past.

Whether hiking, wine tasting, swimming or simply slowing down - Lake Kaltern is an invitation to enjoy life more consciously. In this article, we take you on a 3-day trip between the lake, vineyards and South Tyrolean cuisine.

The best time to travel

Lake Kaltern is not an insider tip - it is particularly popular in summer and the prices for accommodation are high. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, you should visit in spring (when the flowers are in bloom) or in fall (during the grape harvest). Then the region is particularly atmospheric and less crowded.

🧭 Day 1: Arrive & immerse yourself - Dolce Vita in Kaltern

🛏️ Accommodation & travel tip

If you are coming by car from the north, you can treat yourself to a worthwhile stopover in Klausen on the Brenner highway. The old town with its narrow streets is one of the most beautiful in South Tyrol - perfect for a short walk and a culinary break.

We recommend the Walter von der Vogelweide inn in the heart of the old town: regional cuisine in a historic setting, whether in the Knights' Hall or on the sun terrace.

Finish off with a first-class espresso at Café Nussbaumer - a real treat before continuing your journey.

Particularly worthwhile: the short, steep climb (approx. 30 minutes) directly from the old town of Klausen to Säben Monastery with a fantastic panoramic view over the Eisack Valley.

Then head south - via Bolzano to Caldaro on the lake, where your weekend begins.

For your stay at Lake Kaltern, we can recommend the SEELEITEN - Lake Spa Hotel (5-star category). Although it is in the higher price segment, it also offers top-class facilities with pools, a dream wellness area and great food. An absolute feel-good hotel with a beautiful view of the lake.

A more affordable alternative is a cozy guesthouse right on the lake. Our tip: The Remichhof (3-star category) with top value for money.

🏘️ The village of Kaltern - Mediterranean flair & enjoyment

Kaltern itself is more than just a starting point - the historic town center has an almost Tuscan feel: cobblestones, palm trees, arcades and vineyards characterize the picture. Life is particularly vibrant around the market square - with cafés, wine bars and small stores.

The town has a diverse gastronomic scene - from traditional South Tyrolean inns to fine dining. Our favorite restaurant is the Panholzer.

🍷 Wine & first moment of pleasure

Kaltern is the center of South Tyrolean wine culture. The Kalterersee DOC, a light, fruity red wine, is particularly well-known. Many wineries offer tastings - often with short guided tours and a personal touch. Our recommendation: the Manincor winery - an architectural jewel overlooking Lake Kaltern. This is where tradition and modernity meet, surrounded by vineyards with magnificent views. Biodynamically produced wines and stylish tastings make the visit a special experience.

🍽️ Dinner with a view

South Tyrolean cuisine is excellent - traditional, fresh and prepared with a lot of heart. We recommend a special place: the Gretl am See restaurant. Here you can sit right by the water with a view of Lake Kaltern and the surrounding vineyards. A perfect place to end the day in a relaxed atmosphere.

🥾 Day 2: Hiking, views & wine tasting

🌄 Hiking tip: Kalterer Höhenweg or Mendel Pass

Get active today! Particularly popular: the Kalterer Höhenweg trail, with magnificent views of the Etschtal valley and the lake. Alternatively, it's worth taking the Mendelbahn cable car - one of the oldest funicular railroads in Europe - to the Mendel Pass, with many hiking opportunities and viewing points.

🌅 Sundowner by the lake

The lake is at its calmest at sunset - perfect for a walk along the shore or an aperitif with a view of the water. Some restaurants right on the lake offer terrace seating with a view.

Tip: Gretl am See is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset with a drink right on the shore of Lake Kaltern - stylish, relaxed and with a fantastic view.

🏖️ Day 3: Lake feeling & relaxed conclusion

🚶‍♀️ Circular trail around Lake Kaltern

A highlight is the approximately seven-kilometre circular trail around Lake Kaltern - varied, natural and relaxing. It leads through vineyards, reed zones and the moorland on the southern shore - partly over wooden footbridges.

Tip: Also suitable for leisurely walkers. Benches with a view invite you to linger - especially atmospheric in the morning.

🌊 Swimming & water sports

Lake Kaltern is one of the warmest swimming lakes in the Alps and is a paradise for swimmers and water sports enthusiasts in summer. Many hotels, including the Hotel Seeleiten, offer their guests stand-up paddle boards (SUP) and pedal boats for hire. This allows you to actively explore the lake while enjoying the beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains.

☕ Café visit & stroll around town

The perfect end: breakfast in a café by the lake or a final stroll through the village of Kaltern. If you like, stock up on wine, bacon or local specialties.

Optional: a visit to nearby Lake Montiggl or a detour to Tramin - also well worth a visit.

✨Conclusion: Why you will love Lake Kaltern

Lake Kaltern offers you the best of both worlds: Alpine panorama meets Mediterranean lifestyle. Whether you want to be active, enjoy yourself or simply slow down - you'll find the perfect balance here.

📌 Quick overview

Best time to visit: Spring & fall

Top activities: Lake tour, hiking, wine tasting, SUP, stroll through the old town

Photo spots: Säben monastery, lakeside at sunset, vineyards

Culinary delights: Regional specialties & fine cuisine in Kaltern

Accommodation: Hotel Seeleiten (5-star category), Der Remichhof am See (3-star category)