When temperatures drop and the leaves change colour, the Renon plateau offers its best. Just 12 minutes by cable car from Bolzano, its paths become ideal places for walking among silence, forest scents and clear views. Autumn is a quiet season, with fewer tourists and a slower pace: the sound of footsteps on dry leaves, the smell of damp earth and the singing of birds accompany the excursions.
With over 300 kilometers of routes, Renon offers itineraries for every level and interest. From the larch forests to the sunny meadows, from the views of the Dolomites to the ridges of the Corno del Renon, here every path tells a story of an authentic mountain. And between one walk and another, you can stop at an inn for a typical dish or to participate in the traditional “Törggelen”, with chestnuts and new wine.
Here are eight walks to plan this season.
The Paths of the Earth Pyramids
The earth pyramids of Renon – clay columns topped by a boulder, shaped by time – are one of South Tyrol’s best-known natural attractions. They can be reached with three different routes: from Collalbo/Longomoso, from Soprabolzano and from Auna di Sotto. All easily accessible even in autumn and suitable for families.
The most accessible observation point is located in the Rio Fosco valley, along the road to Longomoso and Monte di Mezzo: about half an hour on foot from Collalbo station. The best time is late afternoon, when the warm light enhances the colors of the forest and the contrast with the pyramids.
The Freud Promenade
Named after Sigmund Freud, who loved walking here during his holidays in Collalbo, the promenade connects Soprabolzano and Collalbo with a flat route of around 6 kilometres, which can be covered in an hour. Along the way there are benches with quotes from the father of psychoanalysis.
In autumn, with the crisp air and carpet of dry leaves, the walk has a meditative atmosphere. You can also deviate from the route to reach Lake Costalovara.
The Fenn Promenade
A historical itinerary that goes around the Fenn hill, starting from Collalbo. The road, traveled over the centuries by travelers and merchants, was inaugurated in 1898 (a plaque commemorates it along the route).
The path offers glimpses of the Isarco Valley and the area of the Earth Pyramids. It crosses the escarpment and reaches the water lily pond of Longomoso, then connecting to Collalbo and the Renon train station. Easy, panoramic route, also suitable for an afternoon outing.
The Chestnut Path (Keschtnweg)
The Keschtnweg is the symbolic itinerary of autumn. It runs along the slopes of the plateau, touching Longostagno, Siffiano, Auna di Sotto and Signato. In about four hours you pass through centuries-old chestnut groves and broad-leaved woods, with stops at farms and inns.
Many sections can be covered with local guides who tell stories and curiosities about the area. Ideal for those who want to experience the foliage to the full, among the most intense colors of the season.
The Shepherd’s Path (Hirtensteig)
A medium difficulty route that starts from Collalbo and heads for about 3 kilometers towards the Corno del Renon. Along the way you will encounter information panels on the ancient profession of the shepherd.
In autumn, when the pastures empty, the path is particularly quiet. Among fir, larch and beech trees you walk immersed in the woods, with only the sound of the wind and distant animals. A simple but authentic journey, perfect for those seeking peace.
The Kneipp Path
To combine nature and well-being, the Kneipp path connects Tann to Bad Siess with a 1.2 km route in the woods. Along the route there are five stations inspired by the philosophy of Sebastian Kneipp, dedicated to movement, herbs, water, nutrition and inner order.
There are cold water pools, barefoot sections and relaxation areas. It is a short but regenerating walk, ideal for those seeking a sensory experience in nature.
Cieloronda on the Corno del Renon
For those who prefer higher altitudes, the Corno del Renon (2,260 metres) offers routes with spectacular views of the Dolomites. The best known is the Premium Tour Cieloronda, a 16.5 km ring (5-6 hours of walking) which starts from the mountain station of the Cima Lago Nero cable car.
Along the route you come across the “Round Table” by Franz Messner, an artistic installation with the names and profiles of the mountains visible on the horizon: from the Ortles to the Brenta Dolomites. A challenging but scenic itinerary.
The “Rebe” Wine Trail
It connects the Renon with Bolzano by crossing the Signato slope and descending to the Waldgries farm in Rencio. About 400 meters of altitude difference and an hour and a half of walking between the rows.
Along the route there are installations by the Gardena artist Philipp Doss Moroder and panels that explain the vines and the landscape. A traveling tasting with local producers is planned for Saturday 25 October: five stations between Signato and Rencio with tastings of Lagrein, Gewürztraminer, Kerner and other varieties grown along the 3.5 km of the route. The day ends at Ansitz Waldgries with music and typical dishes.
