Möltner Knödelbuffet

A festival dedicated to the dumpling, a symbol of South Tyrolean cuisine

The Möltner Knödelbuffet is one of the most anticipated gastronomic events of the summer in Mölten, a small mountain village located on the sunny Salten plateau in the province of Bolzano, in the heart of South Tyrol. For one day, the village square transforms into a large open-air buffet entirely dedicated to dumplings (Knödel), the most iconic specialty of South Tyrolean peasant cuisine.

Dumplings by the farm women of Mölten

The heart of the event is the local farm women, the Bäuerinnen, who hand-prepare a wide selection of dumplings according to recipes passed down through generations. The buffet typically features dumplings with speck, spinach, cheese, porcini mushrooms, and chanterelles, as well as the essential sweet versions: apricot and strawberry dumplings, served with vanilla sauce. The offering is completed by homemade fruit juices and the genuine flavors of local farms.

Music, tradition, and village atmosphere

Beyond the culinary delights, the Knödelbuffet is a true folk festival: the day is accompanied by the local brass band and moments of traditional music and dancing, recreating the convivial atmosphere of South Tyrolean village feasts. It is an ideal opportunity to discover the hospitality of Mölten and the life of this mountain community, nestled among the pastures and larch forests of the Salten plateau.

How to participate

The event takes place in the village square (Dorfplatz) of Mölten and is organized by the Mölten Tourist Association (Tourismusverein Mölten). Given the village's panoramic location, it is recommended to check in advance with the local tourist office regarding shuttle services and parking options.