Bergmesse and Nostalgic Festival – AVS Ritten

A mountain mass for the 50th anniversary of AVS Ritten

On Sunday, July 12, 2026, the Ritten (Renon) plateau, in the municipality of the same name in the province of Bolzano, hosts a festive day dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the local Alpenverein Südtirol section, the AVS Ortsstelle Ritten, founded in 1976. The celebration centers around a Bergmesse, the classic South Tyrolean mountain mass, and a convivial, nostalgic-style party that brings back the spirit of old-school mountaineering.

The Bergmesse at the Schianont Shrine

The mass, conducted in German, is held at 11:30 AM at the Schianont shrine, a small votive chapel located behind the Rittner Horn (Corno del Renon). For the occasion, participants wear historical high-altitude mountaineering clothing, creating an atmosphere that pays homage to the association's roots and the long tradition of life in the South Tyrolean mountains. It is a simple, heartfelt service immersed in the landscape of the plateau's pastures and peaks.

Hike and party at the Feltunerhütte

After the mass, the day continues with a hike starting from the Rittner Horn toward the Totensee lake along trail no. 1: approximately 2 hours of walking from the mountain station, with an elevation gain of 330 meters and a descent of 250 meters, covering 6.7 km. In the afternoon, starting at 3:30 PM, the festivities continue at the Feltunerhütte with music, refreshments, and a convivial atmosphere open to all. Participants are encouraged to bring their own snacks.

Faith, mountains, and community

The event embodies the spirit of the Alpenverein Südtirol on the Ritten: the stewardship of the alpine landscape, the passing down of traditions, and the sense of community that has united the section's members for half a century. For those visiting the plateau near Bolzano, the day offers an authentic opportunity to discover South Tyrolean mountain culture far from the main tourist circuits.

How to reach the Rittner Horn

The starting point is easily accessible via the Ritten cable car from Bolzano to Oberbozen (Soprabolzano) and the Ritten narrow-gauge railway, followed by the Rittner Horn gondola. The event takes place at high altitude: appropriate mountain clothing and hiking boots are essential.