Highlander Adventure Val di Sole

Highlander Adventure debuts in Italy

In 2026, Val di Sole, in the heart of Trentino-Alto Adige, hosted the first Italian edition of Highlander Adventure, the international multi-day trekking format born in Croatia in 2017 and now spread across Europe. The event's headquarters were set up in Ossana, at the foot of the picturesque Castel San Michele, which was transformed for three days into a true open-air outdoor village.

A journey through the mountains of Val di Sole

The heart of Highlander is the walk itself. Participants chose from routes of varying lengths, from 15 to 50 kilometers, spread over two or three days, with options designed for both experienced hikers and those new to multi-day trekking. The longest route, spanning three stages, crossed some of the valley's most stunning scenery: from Ossana towards Valpiana and Lago di Barco, at the foot of the Presanella peaks, then along the Vermigliana stream to Malga Saviana, with views of the Adamello-Presanella group, and finally returning through Val Comasine along the historic Miners' Trail.

More than just trekking: yoga, astronomy, and tales

Highlander Adventure is much more than a hike. Every evening, the base camp came alive with a rich program of activities: sunrise yoga sessions, guided stargazing of the night sky, live music concerts, outdoor workshops, and storytelling sessions dedicated to great travel and adventure literature. It is an experience designed to disconnect from digital noise and rediscover an authentic connection with nature and fellow hikers.

The final celebration at Castel San Michele

The event concluded on Sunday, June 7, with a public celebration at Castel San Michele in Ossana: live music, tastings of typical local products, a farmers' market, and an awards ceremony for all participants. It was a perfect way to unite the sporting event with the Municipality of Ossana community and the hospitality of Val di Sole.

An international vocation

The first Italian edition attracted approximately 160 participants, with over a hundred coming from abroad: Croatia, Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Serbia, and as far as Australia and the United States. A predominantly female audience highlights the growing inclusivity of the outdoor world and the appeal of a format capable of turning trekking into a community.