From Merano to Avelengo: wine, chestnuts and wellbeing

Never more so than in autumn do fine food and wine, local traditions, nature and wellbeing make Merano an unmissable destination: from natural attractions to the iconic Portici, from the renowned thermal baths to the vibrant wine scene, which finds one of its finest expressions in the Merano Wine Festival, running from 6 to 10 November 2026, featuring national and international producers, tastings and cookery demonstrations. For this period, amongst others, the Hotel Terme Merano has put together a programme of activities to help guests discover the local area. From visits to the Kränzelhof vineyard (every Tuesday until 27 October, guests can tour the vineyards and the historic Gothic wine cellar) to the hike along the Foiana Chestnut Trail, dedicated to the history and traditions associated with the chestnut tree (every Wednesday until 28 October), and there is no shortage of wellness packages either. Not to be missed are the two retreats in November: the Yoga Days, from 9 to 12 November, and the Digital Detox & Sleep Retreat, from 18 to 21 November 2026. From Merano, it’s just a short trip to the coniferous forests of the Avelengo plateau, which in autumn are transformed into a mosaic of warm, golden hues, set against boundless panoramas and the gentle Haflinger horses with their golden manes. There are two places to head for those seeking privacy and peace: amongst majestic fir trees and with an unobstructed view of Mount Ivigna, at 1,820 metres, where silence still reigns supreme, stands Chalet Zuegg. Not a hotel that simply blends into the landscape, but a project born of the landscape itself, designed to let the forest remain the star of the show whilst the architecture embraces it discreetly. Five exclusive alpine lodges designed for those seeking tranquillity, design and nature within a setting of refined comfort: a project born of the Reiterer family’s desire – already owners of the 5-star Chalet Mirabell in Avelengo, overlooking the rooftops of Merano – to offer an exclusive alternative. (https://www.chalet-zuegg.com/it

Chalet Magdalena & Lodges is also nestled within a dense and secluded woodland. Built in 1967, it has recently been refurbished in line with a contemporary and sustainable architectural concept (Klimahaus A certified; three independent lodges feature floor-to-ceiling glass walls, blurring the boundaries between indoors and outdoors) in the tranquillity of the hamlet of Piffing, in a truly privileged location just a stone’s throw from the slopes of the Merano 2000 ski area. The adventure begins right on your doorstep: a paradise for lovers of hiking, mountain biking and horse riding.