Activities

Mount Vigiljoch.  Surrounded by clarity.

To preserve this picturesque natural idyll, the Vigiljoch can only be reached by cable car. It is a place of enriching seclusion that has been highly sought after as a place of recreation since 1912, when the Vigiljoch cable car first opened. After the old mountain hotel fell into disrepair, the vigilius mountain resort integrated itself into the landscape with architectural care and ecological awareness in order to enter into a sustainable symbiosis with it. Respect for nature and the cultural heritage here can be felt in every aspect.

Sights in Merano and the surrounding area

Take in the view of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dolomites, from the vigilius mountain resort. The most beautiful mountains in South Tyrol are about 90 minutes away by car. The nearby Ultental also presents itself in its originality with its own unique charm. It is always an experience due to its impressive nature, culturally interesting farms, and famous ancient larch trees.

In Bolzano and Merano, you can enjoy various delicacies and discover traditional craftsmanship in the historic arcades, narrow alleys, and spacious squares, depending on the season. A leisurely stroll can be taken along the “Waale,” which have been irrigating the low-rainfall Alpine valleys since the time of Maria Theresa, turning into a network of kilometers-long paths.

Music

Sound meets scenery at the grand selection of international cultural festivals: the South Tyrol Jazz Festival, Merano Music Weeks, Merano Jazz Festival and Lana Live.

Museums

Enjoy history, modernity, and always a unique perspective, at the region’s many museums. Explore the Touriseum museum in the blooming gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle in Merano, the Ötzi Museum in Bolzano, the Andreas Hofer Museum in Val Passiria, the Messner Mountain Museums by the South Tyrolean alpinist legend Reinhold Messner, and so many more.

Culture and Events

Discover well-visited events such as the Bolzano Dance Summer, the South Tyrol Classic Car Rally and the atmospheric nights in the gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle.

Wine

The oldest wine-growing region in the German-speaking world boasts exquisite premium wines and traditional wineries. Experience events such as the Merano Wine Festival and the Vernatsch Cup, held at vigilius mountain resort, visited by wine lovers of Italy and the world.

Summer activities

In the warmer months, there is a lot to explore and experience around vigilius. From relaxed hikes in nature to more vigorous activities on the ground to spectacular experiences at lofty heights.

Hiking on and around the Vigiljoch

A paradise for hiking with a breath-taking panorama right outside the doors of the vigilius. Whether relaxing walks, longer hikes through the enchanting forests, or feeling the bracing wind on the 2,607-meter-high Naturnser Alp – there is something for everyone.

Cycling

Mountain bikes are available free of charge to vigilius guests and e-bikes can be rented for a fee. Our team will be happy to advise you on the numerous panoramic rides, alpine bike trails and rapid descents into the valley.

South Tyrol has a very well-developed network of cycle paths. From Lana, you can cycle all the way to the Adige, up to Val Venosta or Bolzano. You can also take your bicycle on public trains on the way back to Lana.

Paragliding

The view from the mountain isn’t enough for you? Try seeing it from the air! Glide into the valley from the Vigiljoch for breath-taking views. We’ll be delighted to organize your tandem flight with trained tandem pilots.

Golfing in Lana and surroundings

In Lana, near the castle ruin “Brandis”, you will find a 9-hole golf course in a quiet location overlooking the Adige Valley – designed by renowned English golf course designer Michael Pinner. The 2,887-meter-long course is extremely flat, making it suitable for all ages and experience levels.

We will be happy to organize a tea time for you.

Yoga, Pilates, Qi Gong, Meditation

Train your body and mind with our extensive program of yoga, Pilates, Qi Gong, meditation and mindfulness exercises. Depending on your needs, you will find activities for inner balance, balance, flexibility, improved posture, concentration, coordination, and controlled breathing in our move&explore program.

The Five Tibetans®

The Five Tibetans® belong to the oldest of far-east practices for sustaining well-being, vitality, relaxation and calmness as well as new power and energy in everyday life. The rhythmical movements of the five exercises activate all of the muscles, tendons, ligaments and organs. The function of the glands is stimulated and the entire immune system is strengthened.

Forest Bathing

Forest bathing is consciously immersing oneself in the forest to feel, smell, and hear the multifaceted forest air and the many elements of the forest. A stay in the forest has a positive and lasting effect on the organism and the inner processes. The forest is also a place of fascination and enthusiasm. By being mindful of the forest, by being aware of your environment, you will find inner peace, inspiration, and joy.

Guided Hikes and Nordic Walking

Explore the Vigiljoch and the surrounding area together with one of our guides. During the guided hikes you will experience the Vigiljoch and the surrounding mountains firsthand and learn interesting facts from our guides. Regardless of whether you choose a leisurely panoramic hike or a sweaty summit tour, the breathtaking panorama of the South Tyrolean mountains will accompany you on your way. In addition to our hikes, you will also find Nordic Walking in our program.

Bocce

At vigilius we have rediscovered the game of bocce (“Boccia” in Italian). Do you play bocce? Thanks to the original bocce court of the old mountain hotel, which has been lovingly restored, it is possible to play bocce at the vigilius. Bocce is the Italian variant of lawn bowling; the goal is to place your own balls as close as possible to a smaller target ball (pallino) or to shoot the opponent’s balls away from the pallino. Bocce means togetherness, movement, and competition with a lot of fun.

Winter activities

South Tyrol, in the North of Italy, is known for its idyllic snow-covered sceneries. Winter brings variety to the Vigiljoch mountaintop. Discover the possibilities and enjoy the excitement of the winter season at vigilius.

Winter hiking

Explore the idyllic winter landscape around the Vigiljoch. Opportunities begin right at vigilius mountain resort’s front doors, ranging from leisurely walks to long hikes through the snow-covered forests with breath-taking panoramas guaranteed.

Snowshoe hiking

Deep snow means deep relaxation. Enjoy the uniquely beautiful winter landscape on a snowshoe hike. The vigilius provides you with snowshoes and poles free of charge.

Skiing at the Vigiljoch

Directly next to the vigilius, you can catch the nostalgic chairlift (free of charge for vigilius guests) into the compact but exciting Vigiljoch ski area, with five kilometers of slopes to explore. Once the epitome of the alpine skiing scene, the slopes are quieter today – less hustle and bustle, more relaxation. Away from the crowded runs and après bars, here, you’ll find relaxing skiing close to nature. The sunny slopes to the Jocher, Seehof and the racetrack are ideal for this. (Please note: the ski slopes are only open when there is enough natural snow.) The Vigiljoch ski school also offers private lessons and ski guides for adults and children.

Reserve at:skischule.vigiljoch@gmail.com

Ice skating

From December to February, you can skate on the frozen Schwarze Lacke lake in good conditions. From vigilius, you can reach the Schwarze Lacke in about 1.5 hours, from the chairlift mountain station in around 20 minutes. Why not combine your ice-skating with a scenic hike? Skates can be rented (depending on availability) at Gasthof Seespitz, which is located directly on the Schwarze Lacke.