Renon Railway Birthday

A birthday over a century in the making

Every year on August 13th, the Renon Railway Birthday celebrates the anniversary of the legendary Renon Railway (Rittner Bahn), which first opened on August 13, 1907. Inspired by the modern Swiss mountain railways popular during the Belle Époque, this narrow-gauge line is the only one of its kind remaining in all of South Tyrol, serving as both a testament to early 20th-century elite tourism and a vital lifeline for the plateau's residents.

A special journey in vintage carriages

The highlight of the day is a special run along the scenic route between Soprabolzano and Maria Assunta, with a round trip aboard vintage carriages. During the journey, experts from the railway's workshop accompany passengers, sharing the history, technical details, and curiosities of this small electric train that still winds its way through meadows, forests, and glimpses of the Dolomite peaks. It is an experience designed for railway enthusiasts and families vacationing on the plateau alike.

A heritage to be preserved

Organized by the Renon Railway Committee in collaboration with the Renon Tourist Association, the event is much more than a simple excursion: it is a moment to celebrate the area's historical and technical heritage. The Renon Railway, with its metric gauge and electric power, is a unique fixture in the South Tyrolean transport landscape, having survived the rapid rise of the automobile thanks to the affection of the local community and the dedication of those who maintain its legacy.

On the Renon Plateau

The event takes place in the Municipality of Renon/Ritten, in the Province of Bolzano, the heart of the Trentino-South Tyrol region. Accessible from Bolzano via the spectacular Renon cable car, the plateau is famous for its mild climate, the Earth Pyramids, and sweeping views of the Dolomites. The train's birthday is the perfect opportunity to discover this corner of South Tyrol, combining the magic of a bygone era with the charm of the mountains.

• When: August 13 (date of the historic 1907 inauguration)
• Where: Soprabolzano, Municipality of Renon (BZ)
• What: Special run with vintage carriages from Soprabolzano to Maria Assunta and back, with expert commentary
• Booking: Mandatory, limited spots available