South Tyrol, the distinctive northern Italian region nestled in the Dolomites, is making a notable return to the UK travel market for winter 2025. Offering a compelling fusion of alpine adventure and urban culture, it presents a sophisticated alternative to traditional ski holidays.
The Urban Gateway: Bolzano's Alpine Buzz
The journey often begins in Bolzano, South Tyrol's bustling capital, easily reached via Sky Alps flights. The city is a fascinating cultural crossroads where Italian and German influences blend seamlessly, evident in its architecture, language, and cuisine. A key addition to the city's hospitality scene is the Falkensteiner Hotel, which opened in July 2025. It features modern rooms, a Japanese fusion restaurant, and a rooftop bar with commanding city views.
For food enthusiasts, Il Corso restaurant, a short walk from the hotel, is highly recommended. Here, chef Santos serves authentic Sicilian pizzas alongside wonderful homemade cakes from Fabiana's bakery. Culturally, visitors should not miss the Duomo di Bolzano Cathedral and the monument to medieval minstrel Walther von der Vogelweide.
Bolzano's major advantage is its proximity to the slopes. A short drive leads to the Obereggen ski area, part of the vast Dolomiti Superski network. This gives skiers access to 48km of local pistes and, with a pass, the potential to explore a staggering 1,200km of interconnected trails across the world's largest ski area.
The Mountain Retreat: Brunico's Tranquil Charm
For a contrasting, serene alpine experience, the town of Brunico in the Pustertal Valley is the perfect counterpoint to Bolzano. It serves as the gateway to the Kronplatz mountain, a ski destination boasting 121km of pistes served by 31 lifts, catering to beginners and experts alike.
Kronplatz offers more than just skiing. At its summit, two unique museums delve into alpine heritage. The MMM Corones, designed by the late, renowned architect Zaha Hadid, pays tribute to the history of traditional mountaineering. Nearby, the LUMEN Museum spans four floors documenting the evolution of mountain photography. Between museum visits, the AlpiNN restaurant, led by Michelin-starred chef Norbert Niederkofler, offers a culinary highlight with its focus on locally sourced, visually stunning dishes.
Alpine Luxury: Where to Stay in South Tyrol
Accommodation highlights the region's range. In Brunico, the family-run Hotel Petrus sets a high standard for personalised service. Managed by three sisters and their parents, the hotel prioritises experience over volume, enhancing its rooms with features like private saunas. Facilities include indoor and outdoor pools, treatment rooms, and extensive fitness areas, all delivered with a contemporary design ethos.
Back in Bolzano, the new Falkensteiner provides a stylish urban base. Pricing for these stays reflects the range on offer, with the Falkensteiner starting from approximately €170 per night and Hotel Petrus from around €300 per night. A six-day Dolomiti Superski pass, unlocking the entire ski region, starts from about €70.
This strategic comeback to the UK market positions South Tyrol as a multifaceted winter destination. It successfully marries the convenience of a short flight, the cultural intrigue of a less-visited city, and the world-class skiing of the UNESCO-listed Dolomites, offering a holistic holiday for discerning travellers seeking both activity and atmosphere.
