Slow Food Travel Bergfrühling / Alpine Spring in Val di Funes

Alpine Spring in the heart of the Dolomites

The Alpine Spring (Bergfrühling) is a culinary event held annually between late May and early June, celebrating the awakening of nature in Val di Funes (Villnöß), in the municipality of Funes/Villnöß, in the province of Bolzano (South Tyrol). It is organized by the Slow Food Travel Odles Slow Dolomites association, which established Funes as the first Slow Food Travel destination in South Tyrol.

The initiative stems from the collaboration between local farmers, artisans, and restaurateurs, united by their commitment to local Slow Food Presidia. The concept is simple: bringing the authentic flavors of mountain cuisine back to the table, featuring seasonal dishes and zero-mile ingredients, while rediscovering ancient traditions at the foot of the Odle peaks.

Gastronomic weeks

For about ten days, participating restaurants in Val di Funes and Luson offer special spring-themed menus: creative and authentic dishes reinterpreted with wild local herbs, accompanied by an exclusive spring aperitif. It is the perfect opportunity to taste South Tyrolean farmhouse cuisine in its freshest, most seasonal form.

The San Pietro farmers' festival

The highlight is the public festival in the parish square of San Pietro/St. Peter, the heart of the valley. Here, a farmers' market showcases quality regional products and alpine culinary specialties, all accompanied by live music. In the parish house, enthusiasts compete in Watten, the traditional South Tyrolean card game, while families can enjoy creative workshops, such as carving bark whistles (Maienpfeifen), and guided tours of the bell tower.

Set against the backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites and the famous Odle peaks, the Alpine Spring is not just a celebration of taste, but an invitation to discover the rural culture of this authentic corner of South Tyrol.