Located on the northern edge of Parco Naturale Monte Corno, Montan is a small town in the Italian province of South Tyrol. The area is believed to have been inhabited since the pre-Christian period and was settled by Bavarians in the mid-10th century. Montan formed part of the Austrian-Hungarian Empire until the end of World War I when it was ceded to Italy.
Things to do in Montagna/Montan
Hiking trails wind through Parco Naturale Monte Corno, a mountainous reserve renowned for its rich biodiversity. It’s home to rare floral species and a diversity of wildlife that includes green lizards and praying mantis. Occupying a beautifully restored mill in the village of Trodena is the visitor’s centre, which explores the natural and human history of the park.
On a hill overlooking Montan is Castelfeder, an archaeological site that preserves the remains of prehistoric, Roman and early medieval settlements. Defensive castle walls and a 6th-century chapel are visible today, and ancient oak trees dot the site. Of particular note is the so-called “fertility slide”, which has been carved into the rock and is believed to have been associated with fertility rituals.
Connecting Auer with Predazzo are the remains of a historic railway line, which has been transformed into a popular walking and cycling route. Traversing the Val di Fiemme, the line was initially built during World War I to freight traffic and offers magnificent views of the vineyard-dotted landscapes of the Bassa Atesina.
Getting around Montagna/Montan
Montan is around 30 minutes’ drive from Bolzano and 25 minutes from Bolzano Airport, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Buses connect to Montan and the town centre is small enough to explore on foot. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around the area.