On the Renon plateau, in Alto Adige, Christmas has a different flavour, made up of traditions, craftsmanship and breathtaking views. But what makes this corner of the mountains truly unique is the way in which you can experience the Christmas atmosphere: to reach the Renon Christmas MarketIn fact, it is necessary to board a historic train dating back to 1907.
The experience begins with the cable car that connects Bolzano to Soprabolzano in twelve minutes. Once you arrive on the plateau, the protagonist is the Renon train, operational since 1907, which connects Soprabolzano to Collalbo crossing a unique landscape: the Trenatale.
Here, near the station of the famous historic train from 1907, the wooden stalls reproduce the shape of railway carriages, giving a unique atmosphere, almost like a film set.
Artisanal products and local flavors
The stalls offer a selection of products that represent the history and culture of South Tyrol. From delicacies such as the traditional zelten based on dried fruit, local honey, mulled wine and homemade jams, to artisanal artefacts such as wooden nativity scenes, felt slippers, Christmas decorations in fabric and metal, crochet knitted hats, glass jewels and pine cushions. Each product tells the story of the passion and mastery of local artisans, who continue to pass on age-old techniques.
Among the most interesting activities is the Christmas workshop at the train station, where artisans show how to create decorations with collage, decoupage and fabric techniques, or make antique lace jewelry.
A “widespread” market and train stops
The Renon Christmas Market it is not concentrated in a single place, but develops along the stages of Renon traintouching different points of the plateau. In Collalbo, for example, the center comes alive with stalls in the shape of Christmas trees and on 8 December hosts theFarmer Adventan event where local farmers display natural products, herbs, oils, mulled wine and marzipan, as well as handmade crafts, such as wooden decorations and lathe work.
Another unmissable stop is the Plattner Farm Beekeeping Museum in Costalovara, here it is possible to immerse yourself in the world of bees, discovering the work of beekeepers and tasting honey punch. The experience is free and is a unique opportunity to learn about sustainability and the local ecosystem.
Activities for everyone: including shows, trekking and lotteries
The Renon Trenatale program also includes musical performances, fairy tale readings, games for the little ones and outdoor activities. Visitors can take part in carriage rides, llama trekking and ventriloquism shows, while alphorn players provide evocative musical moments.
For the more creative, primary school students, together with the artist Julian Burchia, decorate the train stops with clay trains and Christmas decorations. And for those looking for a bit of luck, the “Fortunino del Renon” Christmas lottery, active from 23 November to 24 December, offers prizes and discount vouchers.
The Renon Christmas Market is much more than a simple stroll among the stalls: it is a journey to discover South Tyrolean culture and an invitation to experience Christmas with authenticity.
