Schupfenfest on the Salten

A legendary festival on the Salten plateau

The Schupfenfest on the Salten is the most anticipated event in San Genesio Atesino/Jenesien, located in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano (South Tyrol, Trentino-Alto Adige region). It takes place every year on the third Sunday of September on the Salten plateau, known for having the most extensive high-altitude larch forest in Europe, situated on the Tschögglberg ridge between Bolzano and Merano. During this season, the larches begin to turn shades of yellow and orange, providing a stunning backdrop for one of South Tyrol's most beloved festivals.

From hut to hut, among the Schupfen

The heart of the festival lies in the Schupfen, the traditional mountain huts. Seven local associations set up seven Schupfen along the trail connecting San Genesio Atesino/Jenesien and Meltina/Mölten. Visitors hike from one stop to the next, pausing at each hut to enjoy a variety of dishes and local products, creating a true culinary itinerary immersed in the meadows and larch forests.

South Tyrolean culinary specialties

The gastronomic offerings are rich and deeply rooted in local farming traditions. Among the delicacies served in the Schupfen are Bauernmarende (a rustic snack featuring Speck and cheeses), canederli (bread dumplings), Schlutzkrapfen (South Tyrolean half-moon ravioli), pork ribs, game goulash with chanterelles, and the famous Strauben—spiral-shaped fritters served with lingonberry jam. There is also an abundance of Speck and various desserts.

Music, tradition, and atmosphere

The Schupfenfest is much more than just a food festival; it is a popular celebration that marks the end of summer for the South Tyroleans. Live music—the lively Musi in the local dialect—accompanies the day from one hut to the next, and many participants wear traditional costumes, such as the Dirndl for women and Lederhosen for men. The atmosphere is genuine, convivial, and authentically mountain-style, attracting both locals and tourists every year.

How to reach the huts

You can ascend to the plateau from several starting points: the Haflinger Museum, the Tomanegger restaurant at Valas, and the Schermoos parking lot. For the occasion, a continuous shuttle service runs from San Genesio Atesino and Meltina to the plateau, allowing you to easily reach the access points and enjoy the walk between the Schupfen without any worries.