South Tyrol off the beaten tourist paths
South Tyrol is no longer a hidden gem – the Dolomites, Lake Kaltern, and Bolzano attract visitors from all over the world every year. However, beyond the well-known hotspots, quiet valleys, small villages, and stunning landscapes await, which can be ideally explored with a convertible. This convertible tour “South Tyrol off the beaten path” takes you on approximately 280 kilometers from Brixen to the Plose Valley, further to the Plose, through the Villnöss Valley, over Kastelruth and the Seiser Alm to the Gsies Valley and the Pustertal. A convertible journey that combines tranquility, panorama, and authentic moments.
The Route at a Glance
The convertible route starts in Brixen, leads into the Plose Valley and up to the Plose, then through the Villnöss Valley to Kastelruth and further to the Seiser Alm. From there, it goes north into the remote Gsies Valley before the tour ends in the wide Pustertal. This convertible route combines mountain panoramas, solitary valleys, and small villages – an ideal convertible road trip for those who want to be away from the main streams.
First Stage: From Brixen to the Plose Valley and up to the Plose
The starting point is Brixen, one of the oldest cities in Tyrol, with a picturesque cathedral square and a relaxed atmosphere. With the convertible, you roll out into the Plose Valley. Already in the first kilometers, it becomes clear: This convertible tour in South Tyrol focuses on scenic diversity. The road winds up to the Plose, the local mountain of Brixen. While skiers are out here in winter, summer offers breathtaking views and lonely paths. Near the mountain station, you can park and take a walk to experience the Dolomites in all their expanse.
The ascent itself is a real convertible route – hairpin bends, small villages, and clear mountain air make the drive enjoyable. Here you can feel how perfectly a convertible tour resonates with the feeling of freedom and nature experience.
Second Stage: Through the Villnöss Valley to Kastelruth and the Seiser Alm
From the Plose, the convertible route leads down into the Villnöss Valley. This quiet valley is characterized by lush meadows, small hamlets, and the imposing Geisler group, which looms like a natural monument over the landscape. While driving with the convertible, you can stop anytime to let your gaze wander. A particularly rewarding stop is near the small church of St. Magdalena – one of the most photographed places in South Tyrol, which still remains peaceful.
The road continues to Kastelruth, a town known for its connection to folk music but that has also remained a true mountain village. From here, there's a dreamlike convertible route to the Seiser Alm. Europe’s largest high plateau offers vast meadows, small huts, and a magnificent view of the Dolomites. A convertible journey here is something very special: The drive to the plateau with the top down makes the mountain world an intimate experience.
Third Stage: Into the Gsies Valley and through the Pustertal
From the Seiser Alm, the route heads north towards the Pustertal, but before you reach this wide valley, it’s worth taking a detour into the remote Gsies Valley. Here, the motto “South Tyrol off the beaten path” becomes particularly tangible. Little traffic, small mountain farms, and quiet forests accompany the way. It’s a convertible route that brings about a sense of deceleration – ideal for drivers looking for peace and wanting to consciously absorb the landscape.
Back in the Pustertal, the landscape opens up widely. The valley is considered one of the central regions of South Tyrol, but even here, away from the main towns, quiet spots await. A drive in the early evening when the light bathes the slopes in golden hues makes this convertible road trip unforgettable. The open drive through the vastness of the valley shows that a convertible tour in South Tyrol also offers intense impressions away from the Dolomites hotspots.
Tips for Your Convertible Tour
The best time for this route is between May and October. Many passes and side roads are free of snow at this time and offer clear views. Plan enough breaks to explore small villages, alpine huts, and viewpoints. Sunscreen, water, and a light jacket are a must – it can still be chilly in higher altitudes even in summer. It's particularly worthwhile to stop near small side valleys that may seem inconspicuous at first glance but often surprise with quiet beauty.
Conclusion – Experience South Tyrol Anew
This convertible tour in South Tyrol from Brixen through the Plose Valley, the Plose, the Villnöss Valley, Kastelruth, and the Seiser Alm to the Gsies Valley and Pustertal is a journey for connoisseurs. The combination of quiet valleys, wide panoramas, and small places makes the convertible trip varied and authentic. Those looking for a convertible route that combines freedom, landscape, and tranquility will find the ideal itinerary here. Being on the road in a convertible means experiencing South Tyrol in all its diversity while still being away from the usual tourist paths – a true highlight for all who enjoy driving and have a spirit of discovery.